Turning Insights from the Energetic Women Conference into Impact

June 23, 2026

The Energetic Women Conference always brings together inspiring voices, fresh perspectives, and meaningful conversations, and this year’s “Game On” theme set the tone for action. As members of our Utilities and Consulting teams connected with industry peers and explored topics shaping the future of energy and leadership, one idea stood out: how we turn what we learn into real impact.

Here are a few takeaways from the June 15–18 event in Minneapolis and how our team is bringing those insights back to Primera through our work, our teams, and our culture.

Shannon Hackett, CCMP
Project & Change Management Group Manager

What I learned:

Vulnerability builds trust
Create a team of truth tellers with different perspectives, backgrounds, and expertise
Human connection matters the most

How I’ll apply it:

Resetting expectations with my Primera team to make sure they know that they can be open and transparent with me
Identify my team of truth tellers within Primera
Learn one new thing about my clients and direct reports
Continue to pour into myself, so that I can pour into my colleagues

Elizabeth Odegaard, PMP
Vice President, Project Delivery Department Manager, Utilities

What I learned:

Knowledge is light. Staying curious matters
Everyone has the ability to rise, even after setbacks
There is value in mistakes and feedback if you choose to learn from them
Growth starts when you challenge your own limitations

How I’ll apply it:

Ask for feedback regularly, both internally and externally
Use mistakes and input from others as fuel for growth
Stay open to learning and avoid the mindset that there’s nothing left to improve
Build confidence by continuously developing as a contributor, manager, and partner

Sarah Sager
Project Delivery Group Manager

What I learned:

“Dark Work” – do the work in the dark so you can win in the light
Smooth seas don’t build strong sailors
Have a long-term memory of your successes and a short-term memory of your failures
A mistake isn’t an error until you don’t learn from it
The past is a place of reference, not residence

How I’ll apply it:

Culture is shaped by everyone. Every interaction contributes, and anyone can shift it
When giving feedback, describe behavior, explain impact, understand their perspective, and agree on clear, actionable next steps

Maddie Carr, PE
Lead Responsible Engineer, Structural

What I learned:

Pride can turn into ego, making it harder to move past mistakes
People often get stuck on mistakes instead of moving forward
A simple reset (phrase + action) can help you move on quickly
Discipline is key to letting go and not carrying negativity

How I’ll apply it:

Create and consistently use a reset phrase and action to move forward
Focus on bringing a positive attitude instead of dwelling on mistakes
Avoid blame and protect team dynamics when challenges happen
Use this approach to build confidence and support a healthier team culture

Big ideas are only as strong as what we do with them. We’re excited to carry these insights forward and continue building on the momentum from this year’s conference.

Energetic Women is organized by MEA Energetic Women, a national professional and leadership development resource within the natural gas and electric utility industry. Their mission is to prepare women within the energy industry for leadership roles in operations and engineering, which is where the greatest gap exists today. They promote, support, connect and recognize those who believe in developing high potential leaders to create a sustainable future and increase diversity at the top levels. You can read more about them at www.energeticwomen.org.