This afternoon students had the opportunity to meet an inspiring group of women who are leaders in the local green movement. The Newcomb College Institute sponsored a career luncheon with the theme "Women in Green Jobs." The panelists were from a wide variety of careers, but they are all working in New Orleans to make it a more sustainable city.
Demetria Christo is the owner of sustainable landscaping company EcoUrban, LLC. Anne Churchill, owner and head chef of Karma Kitchen, makes all her food with seasonal local ingredients. Elizabeth Galante is the director of Global Green's New Orleans Resource Center and Office where she advocates for sustainable buildings and building policy. Molly Reid is a freelance journalist who writes a weekly column about sustainability in the home for the Times-Picayune's InsideOut home and garden section. Jennifer E. Ruley, PE is an urban planning specialist and engineer who works with the City of New Orleans Public Works department to improve bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure in the city.
They talked about how they came to do the jobs they do and what young women can do now to prepare for a similar career. They all agreed that education is key and suggest going into disciplines such as science, engineering, law and public health with a working knowledge of business and accounting skills. For those seeking a position at a non-profit organization, fundraising will be key so get comfortable with calling people and being extroverted even if it doesn't come naturally. Experience is important, so consider summer jobs and internships with environmental businesses and non-profits. The most important thing to do is follow your passion.
A lot of green jobs don't exist yet, so consider creating your own green job by starting a small business. The City of New Orleans and the Small Business Administration can help you start your business. Tulane students can also take advantage of the Levy-Rosenblum Institute for Entrepreneurship and the Social Entrepreneurship Initiative of the Center for Public Service.
Selling your idea can be difficult, but the panelist had great advice on that, too. You should focus on the practicality and common sense of "going green" and you should make the case that the sustainable way is better than the old way. You should get potential customers to "imagine a world" where some aspect of life is better because of your green business.
Finally, check out this Green Careers Toolkit for information about Tulane's resources and a few tips for getting your foot in the door.
