Elizabeth Perez wears a lot of hats. She is a Government Contracting Expert, Smart City Builder, a CA Licensed General B Contractor, an Energy National Security Advisor, a Clean Energy Entrepreneur, a Diversity & Inclusion Champion, a Business Strategist. and a Native American Navy Veteran. Going Green had the opportunity to learn more about Elizabeth, as well as have her on the podcast.
Let’s get to know Elizabeth a little better. Elizabeth thanks for being here with us today. Tell us about you:
Industry You Work In & Company:
I am a small business owner in the clean energy sector focused on creating jobs and opportunities in underrepresented communities. My business, GC Green (GCG), has helped create over 2,500 jobs in California in collaboration with statewide partners. These partnerships also forged and mentored over 200 entrepreneurs. The White House recognized my work as a Champion of Change for addressing climate change and advancing clean energy technology. I was later appointed as a U.S. Delegate for both Japan (2013) and Israel (2016), as an energy and water expert.
Role In Company:
My role is CEO and Founder of GC Green, a general contracting & consulting firm, that specializes in clean energy and water conservation projects. GCG, also offers diverse financial solutions for clean energy projects.
How did you get involved in the sustainable industry?
Shortly after my transition from the Navy, I transitioned right into the 2008 recession. It was then that I experienced homelessness while I was five months pregnant, with my six year old daughter. I knew that the statistics were stacked against me. I had to do something. That something was to create my job. It is because of my experience during my combat deployments and because of my personal experience of being homeless as a single mother, is why I entered into the clean energy industry.
What trends are you seeing in your industry?
The trend that is a trend now but has been a part of our business model is to address environmental and social justice issues by creating positive impact with clean energy and creating workforce opportunities in the clean energy economy for disadvantage communities. This is more important than ever during COVID-19.
What is one “Action Item” the viewers can take away from this conversation?
America can create jobs, address climate change and Energy National Security by updating much needed infrastructure and through energy efficiency retrofits. We can boost economic opportunities in some of the hardest hit cities due to COVID-19.
Elizabeth, thank you for taking the time to be with us. We are excited to have you on the upcoming show.
Elizabeth is going to be a featured guest on an upcoming episode of Going Green. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast on Apple or Spotify to listen to Elizabeth’s episode along with other interviews with leading cleantech and sustainable experts.
