Our Mission & History
Women in Cleantech and Sustainability fosters an influential network of professionals to further the roles of women in growing the green economy and making a positive impact on the environment.
Founded in 2011, Women in Cleantech & Sustainability is a nonprofit 501(c)6 organization made up of more than 5,000 professional women and men building the green economy. Our members range from students and entry-level professionals to Founders, C-Suite executives, and investors.
Lisa Ann Pinkerton founded Women in Cleantech & Sustainability in 2011, to create a Bay Area community to give women a sisterhood to thrive in and spotlight the remarkable women (and men) whose work is building our future green economy.
By 2013, Women in Cleantech & Sustainability was officially established as a nonprofit 501(c)6 organization, and a board formed to grow the organization beyond its early stages.
In 2014, the first WCS Talks was held. The TED-style conference established a top-tier stage for women to share their professional stories, career tips, and industry expertise.
In 2016, the Jobs Board and Mentorship programs were established to further foster Women in Cleantech & Sustainability members on their career paths.
In 2018, WCS Talks held the first female-focused pitch competition for early-stage startups at WCS Talks.
Today, Women in Cleantech & Sustainability is home to over 5,000 community members internationally, with local chapters in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. Our members consist of all genders and range from students and entry-level professionals, to founders, C-Suite executives, and investors.
Women in Cleantech & Sustainability aims to meet once a month to network and learn the latest industry developments, as well as to attain new business and personal skills from speakers and panelists. Topics covered include renewable energy (solar, wind biofuel, etc), water, smart grid, biomass, carbon reduction, sustainable transportation, energy efficiency, sustainability, green buildings, and many other technologies that aim to make our world a cleaner, more sustainable place.
Board seats and volunteer positions available. Contact Us!
Our Individual Committees Mission
Marketing Committee Mission
The mission of the marketing committee is to position WCS as a thought leader in cleantech and sustainability, furthering the roles of women in the growing green economy, contributing to the growth of WCS through strategic marketing and the promotion of programs, events, contributions and sponsors.
Events Committee Mission
The Events Committee’s goal is to further WCS’s mission of advancing women working in the green economy and to amplify the impact that WCS has on our community by facilitating high-caliber events that create opportunities for education, career development, and networking.
Membership Committee Mission
The Membership Committee is committed to providing an excellent and meaningful membership experience, connecting members to the community, and growing and diversifying membership. If you’re interested in growing your network, working closely with WCS Board Members, or even aspiring to join the Board, e-mail membership@
Entrepreneurship Committee Mission
The Entrepreneurship Committee cultivates activities and resources to encourage and support founders, inventors, and anyone who aspires to drive cleantech solutions to market. If you are interested in collaborating with WCS to support cleantech entrepreneurs, please reach out to startups@womencleantechsustainability.org.