What’s your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company or organization does?
Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric utility cooperative, established in 2002. Last year, KIUC generated about 50 percent of our energy from renewable sources. We are proud to say we’ve posted the lowest (or among the lowest) rates since May 2022 in the state of Hawaiʻi.
You have one day off and no responsibilities—what’s your dream way to spend it in Hawai‘i?
I’d keep it simple and spend the day outside with my family and friends, enjoying the beautiful island life. Swimming, paddleboarding, hiking, and camping are my happy place. If I can watch the sunset, have a bonfire at the beach, and the kids fall asleep on the drive home, that’s a perfect day.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way—but are grateful for?
When I first moved here five years ago, I didn’t know how much I didn’t know about Hawaiian and local culture. I was fortunate to take part in the Leadership Kauaʻi program, and when it was done, I realized I wanted to learn more, so I earned an academic subject certificate in Hawaiʻiloa online through Windward Community College. I studied ‘olelo Hawaiʻi and Hawaiian history, mythology, and the ahupuaʻa. I’m grateful for the heartfelt discussions and moʻolelo of my teachers and classmates in both programs. I’m still learning from the people in my community and the ʻāina every day.
What’s one thing you’re working on right now that excites you?
KIUC has set the goal of 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2033. We have two new projects on deck (pending approval) which will bring us to above 80 percent. I’m really excited about our small island leading the way in clean energy, and how I get to be a small part of the journey.
It’s interesting to visit our different locations and talk to my coworkers about their jobs. Like a lot of people, I took electrical service for granted, and since starting here I have gained a lot of respect for the hard work that goes into keeping the power on 24/7/365.
I challenge myself as a communicator to talk about electricity and being a co-op in new ways. I want to give members a sense of pride in what we are achieving, as well as sharing with the rest of the world what makes Kauaʻi special. We’re very active in the community, giving back through grants and showing up at schools and other events. I have a lot of fun meeting new people and lifting up their work and stories through our media. It’s a labor of love and I hope that shows.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?
Your brand is how you make people feel. Technology is constantly changing how people communicate, but that part stays the same. I’ve taken kind of an unconventional professional path, starting as a health counselor in college to communicating about electricity.
I learned you must be willing to adapt and learn all the new tools, relay the technical information, but don’t forget what it feels like when you’re in the room with someone who interacts in a professional and caring way. Try to convey that humanity through whichever platform you’re using.
