Celebrating Women’s History Month | NAESCO Women’s Committee
Walking into a room not knowing anybody can be intimidating, especially if you’re part of a minority. March is Women’s History Month, and historically, women have been represented in much smaller numbers than men in STEM fields. That’s why we’re spotlighting an initiative within NAESCO that’s changing the narrative for women in energy. NAESCO, the National Association of Energy Service Companies, traditionally represents a sector where women’s voices have been underrepresented. However, the formation of the NAESCO Women’s Committee by Aeroseal’s own April Frakes and her colleague Leslie Pope of Acuity Brands is a testament to the shifting tides.
NAESCO Women’s Committee Cofounder April Frakes – Aeroseal
Walking into a room not knowing anybody can be intimidating, especially if you’re part of a minority. March is Women’s History Month, and historically, women have been represented in much smaller numbers than men in STEM fields. That’s why we’re spotlighting an initiative within NAESCO that’s changing the narrative for women in energy. NAESCO, the National Association of Energy Service Companies, traditionally represents a sector where women’s voices have been underrepresented. However, the formation of the NAESCO Women’s Committee by Aeroseal’s own April Frakes and her colleague Leslie Pope of Acuity Brands is a testament to the shifting tides.
During a regional meeting in Pittsburgh in September 2023, Frakes and Pope realized the potential of a collective platform for women within the industry.
NAESCO Women’s Committee Cofounder, Leslie Pope – Acuity Brands
“It really started with a great conversation. We were just saying how nice it is to be able to have a group of people that you can sit and talk with that are like-minded,” said Pope. This simple yet powerful observation was the seed from which the Women’s Committee grew, driven by the idea that women should have a robust support network within the energy sector.
The committee’s mission revolves around engaging women in the ESCO industry, fostering a diverse membership, and creating abundant opportunities for networking and collaboration. This initiative comes at a crucial time when the representation of women in STEM fields, particularly in energy, is more critical than ever. The presence of familiar faces in professional spaces cannot be understated, especially for women. Pope says, “It’s just so much less intimidating to walk into that room… to have a friendly face.” This sentiment underscores the importance of the committee’s role in making industry events and professional gatherings more welcoming for women.
The two professionals’ vision for the committee extends beyond mere networking. They are laying the groundwork for a mentorship program, recognizing the profound impact that guidance and support can have on one’s career. Frakes, Director of ESCO Sales/Commercial Sales for Aeroseal, reflects on her own experiences, emphasizing the importance of mentorship in navigating the complexities of the industry. “For me, I was very lucky that I had a wonderful mentor… and I didn’t feel embarrassed to go to her and be like, ‘Oh my gosh, what does this mean?'”
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, the story of the NAESCO Women’s Committee serves as a beacon of progress and hope. It’s a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of creating spaces where women can thrive, lead, and innovate. For Aeroseal and the energy sector at large, this committee is not just a milestone for women’s representation; it’s a critical step towards a more inclusive, diverse, and dynamic industry.
In closing, the formation and impact of the NAESCO Women’s Committee are a vibrant reminder of the strides we’re making towards gender equality in STEM fields. As April and Leslie continue to drive this initiative forward, their work inspires a future where women in energy are not just participants but leaders shaping the trajectory of sustainability and innovation.
To learn more about the NAESCO Women’s Committee, or to get involved, email April Frakes at: april.frakes@aeroseal.com
