As we kick off 2023, the WEN Utah Board and I are looking forward to another year of engaging, informative, and fun events and programming!  I would be remiss if I did not begin this message by thanking our 2022 President, Marie Durrant, and our past board members for all the hard work, dedication, and leadership that has paved the way for a successful 2023.  I look forward to stepping into the role of President this year, serving on the board with returning board members, as well as new board members to further WEN’s mission to provide networking opportunities and foster the career and leadership development of women who work in the energy industries.
WEN Utah is an incredible community of dynamic and talented women, and I have gained so much personally and professionally since joining in 2021 shortly after I moved to Utah. Prior to moving to Utah, I lived in Northwest Indiana and participated in the WEN Chicago Chapter. Empowering women in the energy industry has been my personal mission since I started my career in the energy industry a decade ago. I have always believed that women play a critical role in shaping our energy future, and I am honored to be a part of this organization that is committed to women’s empowerment. 

The WEN Utah community brings together a diverse group of women from across the industry – and provides opportunities for mentorship, networking, and leadership development. I am very proud of WEN Utah’s commitment to diversity and equity, serving as a safe community for people (not just women) from all walks of life. I am also proud of WEN Utah’s commitment to philanthropy and community service. In 2022, we partnered with a non-profit for each of our events – expanding the impact of our chapter; we plan to expand that impact even further in 2023. 

The WEN Utah Board is planning many exciting events for this year, and we look forward to engaging and spending time with our members throughout the year.

In closing, I would like to extend my gratitude to our WEN members and sponsors. Thanks to your ongoing support we can create this community and provide exceptional programming, networking, and development opportunities. We welcome new members to join us to learn more about this sector, including clean energy, climate change, and women’s leadership. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me to learn more about our chapter and how you can join. sponsor or become more involved!
 

Utah President

Laura Hamsher, AES
2023 Utah Chapter President