Episode 171 — Building a Career in Renewables: A Conversation with Smita Barooah

In this inspiring episode of Energy Speaks Back, I reconnect with Smita , a participant from my mentoring program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Smita shares her journey transitioning into the energy and sustainability sector, where she is now building a meaningful career in the renewables space.

We discuss her motivations, the challenges of entering a fast-evolving industry, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Smita’s story is a testament to resilience, lifelong learning, and the impact of mentorship in shaping the next generation of energy professionals.

Phil Draper – Visionary Founder of 21 Engineering

In this episode of Energy Speaks Back, I sit down with Phil Draper, the visionary founder of 21 Engineering. Phil shares his journey of building a company that’s redefining how buildings and people interact through innovation, smart technologies, and a culture of lifelong learning.

We dive into the mindset behind his success, how he leads a team that blends technical excellence with human-centred design, and his insights on creating sustainable, future-ready buildings.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration from a leader in the energy and building sector or want to learn how passion and innovation can transform industries, Phil’s story offers lessons for us all.

21 Engineering – Driving Innovation in Buildings and People

In this inspiring episode of Energy Speaks Back, I sit down with the brilliant team at 21 Engineering to uncover how they’re redefining the way buildings and people interact. We explore their pioneering work in smart technologies, renewable energy, and lifelong learning — showing how innovation is not just about equipment and systems, but also about empowering the people who use them.

Join us as we discuss real-world examples of sustainable solutions, the importance of collaboration, and the future of energy management in the built environment. Whether you’re an energy professional, a technology enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of our industry, this conversation is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss.