Episode #18 - Empowering Connecticut’s Clean Energy Workforce – Green STEP
Episode #18 Empowering Connecticut’s Clean Energy Workforce – Green STEP
In the latest episode of Learning and Living STEMM in Connecticut, host Tanimu Deleon is joined by guests from the EnergizeCT Green STEP program to explore how it enhances high school education through hands-on workshops in STEM, energy efficiency, and sustainable building practices—helping students discover real pathways into careers in clean energy and environmental innovation.
Ricardo Jordan is a Manager for Energy Efficiency at Eversource Energy, responsible for managing Connecticut’s statewide Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Program portfolio. He has nearly two decades of experience in the industry, and in his current role, focuses on equity, decarbonization, and energy affordability in delivering comprehensive offerings to commercial, industrial, and municipal market segments.
Cèleste Frazier-Barthel
Cèleste holds a Ph.D. in Science Education from Oregon State University, where her STEAM research was supported by key institutions including the STEM Research Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Marine Technological Society, NASA, and NOAA. She also holds a Master of Science in Geography, a Master of Arts in Leadership in Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. With over 30 years of experience, Cèleste is a seasoned expert in STEAM research and teaching, bridging formal, informal, and special education across K-16 and graduate levels. Her work spans partnerships with business, industry, and governmental bodies. Cèleste is passionate about increasing accessibility and inclusivity in educational opportunities. Her expertise includes STEAM educational leadership, curriculum development, DEIAB, sustainability education, science communication, professional development, coaching, and community outreach.
Douglas Geoffrey
Douglas is a graduate of Wilcox Technical High School, where he focused on carpentry and developed a strong foundation in the trade. Inspired by his experience in the Green STEP Summer Program, he is now pursuing an associate degree in Energy Management at Tunxis Community College, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Coastal and Marine Science at Sacred Heart University. He is on track to graduate from both institutions in the spring of 2027. Douglas holds OSHA 10, GPRO, and Building Science Principles (BSP) credentials and is actively involved in the classroom, assisting with the instruction of Building Science Principles to fellow students.
Host, Tanimu Deleon
Tanimu Deleon has a BS, an MS in Computer Engineering, and a PhD. in Biomedical Engineering. Dr. Deleon has well over a decade of experience in research and development, information technology, submarine design & manufacturing, sustainable investments, and human factors. Dr. Deleon is a Principal Engineer and Technical Lead for Human Factors Engineering and Warfighter Performance at General Dynamics Electric Boat. In this capacity, Deleon works across various disciplines to ensure the human element is factored into the boat’s design.