Empowering CWEEL: Strategies for Group Growth and Engagement
Strategies for CWEEL Group Growth and Engagement
The Rocky Mountain Association of Energy Engineers (RMAEE) chapter has implemented new strategies in 2024 to help advance their commitment to fostering community, networking, and professional development with their members to grow participation in their local CWEEL group. CWEEL groups are local networks within existing AEE chapters around the globe that work to further CWEEL's mission to support career development for professional women, mentoring, networking, and scholarships for aspiring women to pursue technical education and careers in the energy and environmental fields.
By sharing their successful strategies, we hope to inspire other local groups to adopt new strategies for engaging members!
Five growth and engagement strategies inspired by RMAEE’s CWEEL Group
1. A Dedicated CWEEL Group Page on Your Chapter Site
RMAEE established a dedicated CWEEL group page on their website that serves as a hub for CWEEL-related information, introducing visitors to CWEEL’s purpose, activities, and community impact. By providing this online resource, RMAEE ensures that potential participants can research CWEEL before getting involved, fostering transparency and growth. Here’s why a dedicated website page matters:
- Visibility: When people search for CWEEL online, they should find a welcoming and informative page. Highlight who CWEEL is, what you do, and the impact you’re making.
- Researchability: Imagine joining a group without knowing anything about it. Not ideal, right? Having a well-structured page allows interested individuals to explore and understand CWEEL before getting involved.
Remember, a strong online presence sets the stage for community growth!
2. Building Community One Conversation at a Time
RMAEE’s CWEEL group hosts informal lunch chats, creating a space for networking and community building. These gatherings allow CWEEL members to discuss professional development, certifications, and training. By emphasizing personal connections, RMAEE strengthens the sense of community within CWEEL, encouraging participation and engagement. Here’s how to make them impactful:
- Topics That Matter: Discuss professional development, certifications, training, and study tips. Encourage members to share their insights and challenges.
- Local Networking: Use these chats to build your local network. Who knows? The person across the table might become your next mentor or collaborator.
3. Book Clubs: Where Learning Meets Fun
The RMAEE CWEEL group hosts virtual, discussion-based book club meetings that offer flexibility—where participants engage at their own pace. By selecting diverse book genres (fun reads, energy/environment-focused, personal development), RMAEE keeps members intellectually stimulated while fostering connections. They use of the free bookclubs.com platform to ensure accessibility for all. Tips for a flexible and variety filled book club:
- Quarterly Selections: Let members vote on books—mixing fun reads, energy/environment-focused titles, and personal development gems.
- Discussion Boards: Create a virtual space for book discussions. Share insights, ask questions, and connect with fellow readers.
- Low Commitment: Busy schedules? No problem! Participants can engage at their own pace.
4. Building an Activities Committee: From Vision to Action
RMAEE actively involves CWEEL members in leadership roles. By having a CWEEL lead on the RMAEE board, they ensure representation and alignment with CWEEL’s mission. They also built an activities committee in addition to the board position, to help focus on organizing events, networking opportunities, and regional support. Your CWEEL group’s success relies on identifying dedicated leaders or CWEEL champions. Here’s how to help make it happen:
- Chapter Board Representation: Ensure CWEEL has a voice at the table. Having a CWEEL lead on the RMAEE board strengthens our mission.
- Activities Committee: Form a team passionate about CWEEL’s goals. They’ll organize events, foster connections, and drive growth.
- Regional Network: In collaboration with regional and national AEE and CWEEL resources, we’ll create a supportive network for women and allies in energy and environmental fields.
5. Partnering with CWEEL National: Amplifying Your Reach
RMAEE taps into CWEEL National’s resources. They collaborate with the eleven (11) CWEEL Governing Council chairs, leveraging their expertise in fundraising, marketing, mentorship, and more. By hosting joint events and promoting professional development, RMAEE amplifies CWEEL’s reach, benefiting both local and national members. CWEEL National isn’t just a distant entity—it’s a resource waiting to empower your group.
- Governing Council Chairs: These 11 leaders coordinate everything—from fundraising to mentorship. Tap into their expertise!
- Collaborative Events: Host joint events with other CWEEL chapters. It’s a win-win for everyone.
- Professional Development: CWEEL National offers resources to elevate your group’s growth.
Kudos to the Rocky Mountain AEE Chapter (RMAEE) for their efforts!
- Alaina Hawley, CWEEL Lead, Energy Solutions Supervisor at Platte River Power Authority
- Corina Sedillo, CWEEL Liaison
- Jordan Thompson, Committee Member
- Katie Waugaman, Committee Member
- Alec Holmstron, Committee Member
- RMAEE Board Members
About CWEEL
The Council on Women in Environmental and Energy Leadership (CWEEL) serves as a platform for professional women to grow, learn, and connect. With committees focused on encouraging, leading, and supporting, CWEEL is committed to fostering opportunities for women in the industry. You too can join CWEEL by adding division membership to your existing (or new) AEE membership. You can also deepen your commitment to our mission by forming a CWEEL group within your local AEE Chapter or by joining one of our Governing Council committees. To submit interest in joining a committee or starting a group, please email [email protected].