Career Conversations: Leading with Purpose in Renewables with Jan Coyle, Engineering Supervisor at Ulteig
With nearly a decade of renewable energy experience, Jan Coyle has built a career that blends technical expertise with leadership and a passion for sustainability. In this interview with Ella Cann, Team Manager at Spencer Ogden, Jan shares her journey from land development to leading engineering teams at Ulteig, delivering utility-scale solar and battery projects across the US. Armed with a civil engineering degree from Penn State and a master’s in organisational leadership from the University of Denver, her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of finding purpose in the clean energy transition.
A career shaped by intention, not accident
Jan didn’t stumble into renewable energy- she sought it out. After starting in land development and forensic engineering, she found herself unfulfilled.
“I wanted to feel like I was making a real difference,” she explains. “Renewables gave me that sense of purpose.”
Her entry point came through Sunrun, where she joined the residential solar sector despite having little direct experience. The steep learning curve only fuelled her ambition, and she quickly rose through the ranks into leadership. Eventually, she transitioned into the utility-scale space at Ulteig, expanding her scope and impact.
Overcoming barriers in a male-dominated industry
Like many women in engineering, Jan faced challenges early on- from being overlooked in meetings to doubting her own confidence.
“There were times when I was the only woman in the room, and it was easy to feel like I didn’t belong,” she recalls.
Working with a coach helped her build confidence and sharpen her ability to advocate for herself. She also leaned on professional networks such as WRISE (Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy), which provided community and mentorship. Those experiences strengthened her belief in the importance of representation and support systems.
Defining moments of leadership
One of Jan’s proudest milestones was stepping into her first leadership role at Sunrun.
“I always knew I wanted to lead teams and help others grow in their careers,” she says. “Being able to take that step was incredibly meaningful to me.”
Today, she continues to lead with that same philosophy- empowering her team while pushing for technical excellence and innovation.
Advice for the next generation
For those looking to break into the energy sector, Jan stresses the importance of building a strong network and embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth.
“Networking has been key to every step of my career,” she notes. “And putting yourself in uncomfortable situations is how you grow.”
She also encourages aspiring professionals to practice situational interview questions and connect their past experiences to future opportunities- advice she followed herself when moving from residential to utility-scale renewables.
Driving change through resilience and innovation
When asked about what excites her most, Jan doesn’t point to one technology, but rather the sector’s ability to adapt.
“The resilience of this industry inspires me,” she says. “Renewables have faced so many challenges, yet companies keep pivoting, innovating, and finding solutions.”
At Ulteig, she is proud of the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, particularly its strong representation of women in leadership. She plays an active role in the company’s women’s employee resource group and serves on the WRISE Colorado engagement committee, helping to create opportunities for mentorship and development.
Inspired by collective mentorship
Jan credits much of her progress to the women who have mentored, guided, and advocated for her along the way.
“I’ve been fortunate to have incredible women in my corner who not only shared their knowledge but also created opportunities for me,” she reflects. “That kind of support is invaluable- and it’s exactly what I want to give back to others.”
Final thoughts: leading with bravery
For Jan, the renewable energy industry is more than a career- it’s a mission. Her story is one of perseverance, purpose, and paying it forward.
“This industry is about building a sustainable future,” she says. “If you’re willing to be brave, step out of your comfort zone, and advocate for yourself, you’ll not only grow as a professional but also help shape the future of energy.”
Join the Career Conversations series
To learn more about our Career Conversations: Powering A Sustainable Future series or to nominate an inspiring individual in the industry, read more here.
