The Future of Climate Careers: Skills, Standards, and Professional Pathways + Happy Hour
As climate action moves from ambition to implementation, demand is growing for professionals who can measure, manage, finance, verify, and lead the transition to a low-carbon future. But what does it take to build a successful career in this rapidly evolving field? What positions allow us to work in climate action? Which skills are becoming most valuable? How are professional standards shaping the future of climate work?
Join Michael Gillenwater, founder of the GHG Management Institute and one of the architects of modern greenhouse gas accounting, for a conversation about the emerging profession of climate action. Drawing on decades of experience helping shape the field, Michael will share insights into the types of jobs, skills, competencies, ethical standards, and career pathways that are defining the next generation of climate professionals.
Joining him will be Tani Colbert-Sangree and Keri Enright-Kato, offering additional perspectives on the future of climate careers, including GHG accounting, carbon credits, government policy and more. Tani and Keri have spent time with organizations including the GHG Management Institute, the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, the Transportation and Climate Initiative, the US Climate Alliance, California Air Resources Board’s Compliance Offset Program, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, and the Under2 Coalition.
Whether you're a student exploring opportunities, a professional looking to transition into climate-focused work, or an experienced practitioner seeking to deepen your expertise and credibility, this session will provide valuable perspective on how the field is maturing—and where opportunities are emerging.
The discussion will also explore the newly launched Environmental Professional in Greenhouse Gas (EP®(GHG)) designation, the first globally recognized credential for individual GHG practitioners aligned with ISO 17024 standards. Attendees will learn how professional certifications can support career growth, demonstrate expertise, and strengthen trust in climate-related decision-making.
Topics will include:
The evolving landscape of climate and sustainability careers
Skills and competencies increasingly sought by employers
Professional pathways in GHG accounting, verification, climate finance, policy, corporate sustainability, and more
How standards such as the GHG Protocol, ISO, and SBTi are shaping the profession
The role of credentials, ethics, and professional recognition in building long-term career success
You'll leave with practical insights, a clearer understanding of emerging opportunities, and a roadmap for building your impact in the climate economy.
Bring your questions about careers, credentials, standards, and the future of climate work!
At the end of the event, we'll walk to Bale Breaker & Yonder Cider Taproom, a 7-minute walk, to keep the conversation going among local sips! If you can't join the official event, join us there around 5:00 PM (826 NW 49th St, Seattle, WA 98107).
By registering for this event, you agree to share your information with the event organizers, PNW Climate Week, and Climatebase / the Climate Week Network. You may receive updates from these organizations and can opt out at any time in accordance with their respective privacy policies.