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Summary
How do you choose the right workplace for maximum impact? Our panelists will share their experiences in finding roles that align with their values and impact goals. We will explore the nuances of assessing company commitments and project potential. Whether you’re actively job searching or planning ahead, this discussion will help you navigate the evolving field of Climate tech. Panelists: Max Gadney, Joshua Stehr, Hannah Wickes Moderator: Andrea Petrucci
Key Insights
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Evaluating a climate company's 'theory of change' reveals how seriously they plan to deliver impact.
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Humility and openness about challenges in leadership signal more trustworthy climate employers.
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Avoid companies reliant on fossil fuel funding or serving fossil fuel clients to protect ethical alignment.
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Examining impact reports and company advisors helps detect possible greenwashing or mission drift.
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Considering the maturity stage of a startup guides skill fit—early stages need generalists, later stages need specialists.
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Mapping personal lived experience or curiosity to specific climate systems aids in choosing purpose-driven roles.
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Financial runway questions during interviews help assess project stability and set realistic expectations.
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Climate sector roles often demand balancing impact goals with personal financial and mental bandwidth.
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Large corporates, though imperfect, can be good places to develop skills and later enable system change.
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Multiple, smaller impactful actions combined contribute to meaningful climate work; direct and indirect impact both matter.
Notable Quotes
"I always ask, what is your theory of change? How do you plan to achieve your outcomes?"
"If fossil fuel companies are your first client or funder, I’m out. That’s a clear line for me."
"Interview the company as much as they’re interviewing you, be curious and critical."
"Sometimes it helps to think of your career like an investor, choosing where to put your time and energy."
"There’s no perfect regenerative business right now, but it’s about if they’re going in the right direction to improve."
"Ask about the company’s financial runway; it guides how much time you have to make an impact."
"Employees can shift big companies, but culture and profit pressure can make that really hard."
"Climate jobs vary and not all need digital outputs, so don’t waste time pursuing a bad fit."
"Follow your curiosity deeply, and that thread can lead you to impactful climate work."
"It’s a subjective decision what compromises you make, but clarity on your non-negotiables is critical."
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