Dylan Green Interview - Dawn James, Global Director of Industry Strategy - Energy & Sustainability at Microsoft
- Dawn James
- Dec 16, 2024
- 3 min read
How to Lead in Sustainability: Key Takeaways from Dawn James’ Journey
What does it take to drive sustainability and make a meaningful impact in clean energy? If you're looking to grow your career, advocate for diversity, and bring innovation to sustainability, the journey shared by Dawn James, President of Sustainability Leadership and Training LLC, offers valuable lessons you can apply today.
During a recent interview, Dawn shared her story, career insights, and advice for those striving to make a difference. Here are the key takeaways that can help you lead with purpose and create real impact.
Lean into what makes you unique.
Your background—no matter where it starts—can take you further than you expect. For Dawn, it began in water resource management, where she built predictive models for subsurface systems. At the time, she didn’t know those skills would later translate into the energy and sustainability sector.
The lesson? Your combination of skills, experiences, and passions sets you apart.
Understand your strengths and advocate for yourself, even when the path isn’t obvious.
Sometimes you need to be the one to say, "I can do this—give me a shot."
Sustainability is a team effort.
When it comes to clean energy and sustainability, collaboration drives progress. The challenges are complex, and the solutions will come from partnerships across industries and sectors.
Emerging technologies like direct air capture, battery storage, and hydrogen solutions are redefining how we think about energy.
If you’re in this space, the question becomes: how can you work with others to solve big problems? Whether you’re partnering with startups, established organizations, or local communities, progress happens when we bring diverse perspectives together.
Sustainability and equity go hand-in-hand.
Creating a sustainable future means ensuring everyone benefits from the work we do. For underserved communities, this work is personal and essential. Environmental justice isn’t just a talking point—it’s about creating tangible opportunities and delivering meaningful results.
Ask yourself: is the work I’m doing equitable and inclusive? Whether you’re partnering with diverse-owned businesses, expanding clean energy access, or building solutions that serve communities in need, equity should be at the center of your efforts.
Take care of yourself to show up fully.
Sustainability work can be demanding. To make an impact, you need to take care of your mental and physical well-being. It’s easy to burn out if you don’t pause, reset, and prioritize yourself.
From meditation and exercise to staying hydrated and taking time off, self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s what allows you to approach challenges with focus and clarity. Showing up as your best self makes all the difference, and it starts with taking care of you.
Find your people and build your community.
Success doesn’t happen alone. Surround yourself with people who share your vision, values, and passion. Whether it’s mentors, colleagues, or professional communities, your “work family” will keep you inspired and moving forward.
Be intentional about the relationships you build—align yourself with people whose actions reflect their values. It’s not just about what people say—it’s about what they do.
If you’re looking to make a difference in sustainability, these takeaways can guide your path:
Lean into what makes you unique.
Advocate for yourself and your ideas.
Collaborate and include others in solving big challenges.
Prioritize self-care so you can show up fully.
Build your professional family and grow with the right people.
Creating a more sustainable and equitable future requires all of us, and your contribution—no matter how small—matters. So take that next step, stay curious, and lead with purpose.
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