Women Pioneers Shape New Mexico’s Energy Sector
In a field historically dominated by men, women are making significant strides in New Mexico’s energy industry. Laurie Williams, who started her career in engineering at New Mexico State University, vividly recalls being the only woman in her early classes. Today, she holds the position of senior vice president of integrated planning and transmission development at Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM). Throughout her over 30-year tenure at PNM, Williams has focused on mentoring young women, emphasizing that the company is home to numerous talented female leaders.
‘Potential for energy policy’
Stephanie Garcia Richard made history as the first woman elected as New Mexico’s state land commissioner in 2019. Overseeing 9 million surface acres, she has emphasized the energy potential of these lands, particularly for renewable energy projects. She founded the Office of Renewable Energy and set ambitious targets to increase renewable energy development, aiming to triple the portfolio but ultimately achieving an eightfold increase.
“I think people maybe don’t realize the potential for energy policy here at the State Land Office, just because they think, ‘Oh those people just sign leases,'” Garcia Richard noted. Her approach has been to use state trust lands creatively, expanding beyond traditional uses to include projects like community solar.
A ‘champion’ for women
Giorgia Bettin, leading Sandia National Laboratories’ geothermal research team, has seen firsthand the challenges women face in engineering. Initially unaware of gender disparities while studying at MIT, Bettin became more conscious of them when she entered the workforce and started a family. As the only woman in her department at Sandia initially, she now proudly supports women entering the field, finding it immensely rewarding.
“It’s been so gratifying for me, that’s been a big part of my goals,” Bettin said, reflecting on her journey.
Mentor paying it forward
Missi Currier, president and CEO of the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association, began her career in Carlsbad and has consistently aimed to support other women in the industry. As the first woman to lead the association, she has been recognized by various publications for her influence and mentorship. Currier sees the importance of diversifying the state’s energy revenue sources and emphasizes keeping more energy within the state.
“Oil and gas is very proud to be the number one contributor to the state’s budget,” Currier stated. “But we also know that our state does need to diversify away from being such a one-trick pony.”
Developing technologies
Bettin highlights the intersection of geothermal energy and oil and gas, noting Sandia’s role in advancing technologies like polycrystalline diamond compact drill bits. She believes New Mexico is well-positioned for enhanced geothermal systems, which have minimal environmental impact. Although geothermal energy production traditionally relies on specific natural conditions, new technologies are expanding viable locations.
“New Mexico has been on everybody’s radar,” Bettin remarked, pointing to the state’s high potential for these systems.
Working to strike a balance
Stephanie Garcia Richard continues to push for renewable energy, striving to balance environmental stewardship with revenue generation. Despite increased renewable projects, oil and gas remain significant revenue contributors. The State Land Office aims to diversify its portfolio while maintaining its mandate as a responsible steward of public lands.
“We haven’t found the thing that will do that,” Garcia Richard said regarding replacing oil and gas revenue. “We don’t have that. So having more spokes in the diversification wheel is one way to kind of strike that balance.”
Kickstarting geothermal
As PNM works towards becoming carbon-free, Laurie Williams acknowledges the challenges in achieving the remaining 30% of their goal. She anticipates advancements in renewable energy storage, nuclear reactors, and geothermal technologies. Both Williams and Bettin advocate for increased investment in geothermal projects, viewing them as a natural fit for the state’s existing workforce and resources.
“We have the interest, we have the resources, we have the workforce,” Bettin said. “It would be an easy win for people to start moving in and investing.”
Original Story at www.santafenewmexican.com