Chris Nichols is a dedicated leader in clean energy workforce development and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, currently serving as the Executive Director of Renewables Forward. Since May 2022, Chris has played a pivotal role in growing Renewables Forward from a commitment to action into a robust collaborative network of renewable energy businesses working to transform industry culture. Her efforts are focused on optimizing impact and building strategic partnerships that foster inclusivity and attract diverse talent to the renewable energy sector. Under Chris’s leadership, Renewables Forward has become a driving force in propelling clean energy and social justice as twin engines of a vibrant, sustainable new economy.

Prior to her role at Renewables Forward, Chris served as Principal at Harmonics Energy Consulting, where she led energy workforce and program management projects for federal agencies, nonprofits, and cooperatives. Her expertise spanned areas such as solar development, utility cybersecurity, microgrid design, and workforce expansion. Chris also contributed to national initiatives like the Solar Ready Vets program during her tenure with the U.S. Department of Energy, where she guided workforce credentialing efforts and championed programs to strengthen domestic job growth in renewable and emerging energy technologies.

Throughout her career, Chris has demonstrated a strong commitment to climate action and workforce inclusivity, with over two decades of experience designing programs that bridge the gap between environmental goals and social equity. She is a skilled collaborator in strategic program design, market research, and behavior change, consistently turning vision into actionable outcomes. Passionate about addressing systemic barriers, Chris continues to lead efforts in creating a cleaner, more equitable future for all.

Chris Nichols is a dedicated leader in clean energy workforce development and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, currently serving as the Executive Director of Renewables Forward. Since May 2022, Chris has played a pivotal role in growing Renewables Forward from a commitment to action into a robust collaborative network of renewable energy businesses working to transform industry culture. Her efforts are focused on optimizing impact and building strategic partnerships that foster inclusivity and attract diverse talent to the renewable energy sector. Under Chris’s leadership, Renewables Forward has become a driving force in propelling clean energy and social justice as twin engines of a vibrant, sustainable new economy.

Prior to her role at Renewables Forward, Chris served as Principal at Harmonics Energy Consulting, where she led energy workforce and program management projects for federal agencies, nonprofits, and cooperatives. Her expertise spanned areas such as solar development, utility cybersecurity, microgrid design, and workforce expansion. Chris also contributed to national initiatives like the Solar Ready Vets program during her tenure with the U.S. Department of Energy, where she guided workforce credentialing efforts and championed programs to strengthen domestic job growth in renewable and emerging energy technologies.

Throughout her career, Chris has demonstrated a strong commitment to climate action and workforce inclusivity, with over two decades of experience designing programs that bridge the gap between environmental goals and social equity. She is a skilled collaborator in strategic program design, market research, and behavior change, consistently turning vision into actionable outcomes. Passionate about addressing systemic barriers, Chris continues to lead efforts in creating a cleaner, more equitable future for all.