On April 17, 2025, students gathered for Industry Bites: The Business of the Green Economy for a conversation with experts from diverse backgrounds who are helping shape the future of sustainable business:

• Danny Lou – co-founder of the energy and battery company, Powen
• Steve Matel – sustainability director at the University of Oregon and founder of the Environmental Leadership Program (ELP)
• Michael Chrisholm – North American sustainability leader at Solenis

Though their paths into sustainability differed, ranging from chemical engineering to global studies and environmental science, all emphasized the same point: sustainability is a relationship business.

Top Skills To Learn

The panelists emphasized that sustainability is not a purely technical field. Professionals in the green economy also need to be strong communicators, collaborators, and strategic thinkers. These were some of the top skills highlighted:

• Cross-functional collaboration: Sustainability efforts often require coordination across disciplines (for instance, between engineers, business leaders, marketers, and policymakers).
• Familiarity with ESG frameworks: A strong understanding of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards is becoming essential across industries.
• Policy literacy: Professionals need to understand how national and global policies, such as the Inflation Reduction Act or trade regulations, impact business strategy to stay competitive.
• Cultural fluency and adaptability: Respecting workplace culture and integrating sustainably-minded practices into broader company culture are critical.

As one of the panelists explained, sustainability isn’t just about technology or data—it’s about how people work together to create meaningful change.

What You Need to Know About Green Economy Careers

The panelists made clear that there’s no single path into a sustainability-focused career. Students from all academic backgrounds including business, environmental science, and engineering can find ways to contribute to the green economy.

Non-technical roles are in demand.

Even in industries like energy and manufacturing, companies need people with strong skills in operations, communication, and leadership.

Policy creates both opportunities and challenges.

Government incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act are encouraging greener practices, but international trade policies, especially tariffs and foreign control of battery supply chains, are making future planning difficult.

Institutional change takes time.

One panelist shared the complexities of reducing emissions at a campus level, noting that long-term infrastructure updates (like electrifying heating systems) require significant investment and coordination. Despite these challenges, panelists agreed that sustainability initiatives are continuing—and that students who understand how to navigate policy and systems change will be well-positioned.

Advice for Students

Throughout the discussion, the panelists emphasized a few key pieces of advice for students looking to make a difference:

• Bring sustainability into any role. You don’t need to wait for the perfect job title. Instead, look for ways to champion sustainable practices wherever you work.
• Stay rooted in your values. Students were encouraged to identify what matters most to them in a workplace and use that as a compass when evaluating opportunities.
• Pursue growth by stepping outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s taking on a new role, working in a new industry, or navigating policy complexities, personal and professional growth often happens in unfamiliar spaces.
• Stay informed. Following industry trends (like renewable energy advances, carbon reduction strategies, and ESG developments) helps you speak confidently in interviews and networking conversations.

Final Thoughts

Careers in sustainability are dynamic, collaborative, and values-driven. Whether your interests lie in policy, clean energy, supply chains, or communications, there’s a place for you in the green economy. The panelists reminded students that the future of business will depend on professionals who can combine long-term vision with practical, people-first strategies.

Need help finding your path in the green economy or building a career path in sustainable business? Mohr Career Services is here to support you. Book an appointment with a professional career advisor below or stop by for drop-in advising with peers, Monday–Friday from 10:00 a.m–4:00 p.m. in Lillis 155 for personalized guidance.