Turning Vision Into Action: Lee Ann Head’s Leadership in Clean Energy

For more than two decades, Lee Ann Head has been at the forefront of innovation in the clean energy sector—blending end-user research and insights, new product development, and implementation best practices into solutions that not only work on paper but also make a tangible difference in people's lives. Colleagues describe her as a visionary leader, but Lee Ann is quick to emphasize that her success stems from her relentless focus on the customer.

A Customer-Centric Approach to Complex Challenges

In an industry full of process requirements, cost-effectiveness mandates, and evaluation protocols, Lee Ann insists that the customer journey must remain simple. "The customer journey has to be easy, and the operational processes streamlined to ensure success," she explains. By removing hurdles, she ensures that both customers and trade allies can fully participate in energy efficiency programs without being hindered by bureaucratic red tape.

This philosophy has guided her work on large-scale initiatives such as IRA-related programs, where equity and accessibility are paramount. Her team has simplified eligibility and enrollment, driven down funding gaps, and created turnkey customer experiences with minimal appointments—making the programs truly usable for those who need them most.

Listening to Communities

One of the most surprising insights Lee Ann uncovered in her research was that low- and moderate-income residents prefer a comprehensive, turnkey approach to energy efficiency. Rather than piecemeal upgrades, these residents wanted a holistic plan—from audits and scoping to actual installations—delivered by program-vetted contractors they could trust.

This insight shifted her approach to program design. “It was a reminder that when you listen closely, customers will often tell you exactly what they need,” she reflects. “Our role is to remove the barriers and deliver solutions that make their lives better.”

Mentorship Through Action

Beyond her technical expertise, Lee Ann is passionate about developing future leaders. She believes the best way to learn is by doing, and she empowers mentees to take ownership of their work. “I like to review, coach, and serve as a sounding board, but encourage others to present their own work,” she says. “The more you present, the more confident you become.”

Her mentorship is especially impactful for young women entering a field where she herself was often the only woman in the room. Through her guidance, she’s helping to ensure that the next generation has both the technical knowledge and the confidence to lead.

Navigating the Policy Maze

One of the most challenging aspects of her role is aligning federal and state clean energy policies with utility requirements and customer needs. Eligibility criteria often don't match, utilities must claim savings to layer their incentives, and distribution system challenges complicate program design.

Lee Ann has built a reputation for bridging these divides. Acting as a facilitator, she works with utilities to identify differences, and where possible, align requirements. “Ultimately, it’s in everyone’s best interest—especially the customer’s—to use all available incentives to bridge funding gaps and maximize savings and impact,” she says.

Collaboration That Builds Trust

For Lee Ann, authentic collaboration begins with community-based organizations. These partners bring deep local knowledge, credibility, and relationships that make outreach successful. However, collaboration is only meaningful if feedback is genuinely received.

"Trust grows and participation increases when community members see their guidance reflected in the final program design," she explains. This philosophy has enabled her to co-design programs that not only serve customers but are also embraced by the communities themselves.

A Program That Changed Lives

Of all her achievements, Lee Ann is particularly proud of the NM ECAM HEAR program, one of the first IRA-supported initiatives in the country. The program has provided New Mexico residents with insulation, electrical upgrades, and energy-efficient appliances..

“It’s been the most complex and rewarding project I’ve ever been part of,” she says. “To hear stories of families who now have safer, more efficient homes—it’s why we do this work.”

Honored to Lead, Grateful to Serve

Receiving the Women Who SPARK Award is a profound honor for Lee Ann. Reflecting on her 25-year career, she recalls the early days of being one of the few women in the room, struggling to communicate her ideas to  engineers, and prove her expertise through preparation and persistence.

“I’ve learned that being the voice of the customer is a valued skill,” she shares. “And I’ve learned that the willingness to take on difficult challenges, collaborate, and facilitate agreement is what sets leaders apart.”

Today, she's encouraged that women now make up half or more of many of the teams she works with. "Times have changed," she says with pride. "I'm honored to be recognized by my peers in an industry I love, and I hope my journey inspires others to step forward, trust themselves, and lead with both vision and action."