In an effort to find out how Hawaii's business leaders achieve success, Pacific Business News is asking local professionals to share just one tip or one "secret" that's helped them the most in their career.
This is what Caroline Carl, executive director of Hawaii Energy, had to say: “I love to laugh! The work that we do at Hawaii Energy often involves large, complex issues that impact many people, and that can feel overwhelming at times. Whenever possible, I try and keep things light, which helps me stay positive, connect more deeply with my team and gain perspective on tough decisions. It makes me be a better, more flexible collaborator in driving towards solutions.”
Hawaii Energy, an organization focused on statewide energy-efficiency education and clean-energy initiatives, announced the appointment of Carl as executive director in May. She first joined the company in 2011 as the Hawaii County energy advisor, helping businesses on Hawaii Island save on their electric bills, and has since served in a variety of roles within the company, including interim executive director, deputy director, residential program manager and director of residential and transformational programs, according to the company.
Prior to joining Hawaii Energy, Carl worked at The Kohala Center, where she coordinated reef education programs and water quality monitoring efforts. She received her bachelor's degree in environmental studies from McGill University and her master's degree in geographic information and technology from the University of Southern California. Carl also serves on the board of directors for the Hawaii Solar Energy Association and Women in Renewable Energy.
This is the first feature in a new web series called Secrets to Success. Know someone we should talk to? Email reporter Sophia Compton at scompton@bizjournals.com.
