Sustainable Innovation: Women Engineers Driving Global Change
The IEEE Women in Engineering Oregon Section Affinity Group presents an inspiring event focused on the vital role of women engineers in advancing sustainable technologies and climate solutions. This event will highlight key innovations in renewable energy, battery storage, carbon management, and clean energy technologies, showcasing how engineers are driving impactful global change.
Through expert discussions and knowledge-sharing, attendees will gain insights into emerging trends in climate tech and eco-friendly innovations. The event also provides a platform for networking and empowering the next generation of engineers committed to sustainability.
Date and Time
Location
Hosts
Registration
- Date: 01 May 2025
- Time: 12:30 AM UTC to 01:30 AM UTC
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- Starts 03 April 2025 11:00 PM UTC
- Ends 30 April 2025 11:00 PM UTC
- No Admission Charge
Speakers
Simay Akar Koehler
Sustainable Innovation: Women Engineers Driving Global Change
Biography:
Simay Akar Koehler is a distinguished, multi-award-winning sustainable energy expert and entrepreneur, recognized for her leadership in advancing clean energy innovation and sustainable practices. As the CEO and Founder of AKEC (AK Energy Consulting), a leading Sustainable Energy Transition & Environmental Consulting Firm, Simay specializes in strategic planning, technology assessment, and supply chain solutions for clean energy manufacturers and startups. Her work is focused on accelerating the transition to sustainable energy, helping organizations meet their environmental goals.
With a solid foundation in photovoltaic manufacturing, battery storage, renewable energy systems, and clean energy generation, Simay brings extensive experience from multinational enterprises across diverse markets in Türkiye, China, and Indiana, USA. Having traveled to over 70 countries, her global perspective enables her to navigate complex international markets and deliver scalable, impactful solutions to critical energy challenges.
Simay's expertise spans various clean energy sectors, including electric vehicles, sustainable development, and the social impact of technology. She is committed to advancing cutting-edge clean energy technologies and supporting early-stage CleanTech startups through strategic guidance, mentorship, and practical solutions. Under her leadership, these startups can optimize operations, scale sustainably, and contribute meaningfully to the global energy transition.
An IEEE Senior Member and Eta Kappa Nu (HKN) Member, Simay has been an active IEEE volunteer since 2007, taking on numerous leadership roles, including serving on the IEEE Humanitarian Technologies Board (HTB). In 2025, she will serve as the IEEE USA Representative to the Women in Engineering Committee, further championing diversity, mentorship, and leadership within STEM and the clean energy industry. Simay advocates for the inclusion of women in energy, ensuring their voices play a pivotal role in shaping the sector’s future.
Her outstanding leadership has earned her numerous accolades, including the 2022 Women in New Energy Entrepreneur of the Year Award, recognition in EMobility+ 40 Under 40 (2023), and the GCPIT Global Women in Leadership Award (2022). Simay’s dedication has been acknowledged through multiple prestigious IEEE awards, such as:
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IEEE Region 8 Clementina Saduwa Award (2023)
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IEEE MGA Diversity & Inclusion Award (2022)
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IEEE WIE Inspiring Member of the Year (2020 - Honorable Mention)
Under her leadership, the IEEE Turkey Section WIE Affinity Group received several honors, including:
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IEEE Region 8 WIE Section AG of the Year Award (2021)
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IEEE WIE Affinity Group of the Year (2022 - Honorable Mention)
Simay Akar Koehler’s unique blend of technical expertise, entrepreneurial vision, and dedication to sustainable development has established her as a key influencer in the clean energy sector, driving global change and empowering the next generation of energy leaders.
Address:Oregon, United States