“Jump in and give back: seek out all opportunities to take on additional responsibilities both as work and in the community. The experience that’s gained …by working with a wide variety of groups in these diverse environments is priceless and can greatly enhance leadership skill development.”
From her global real estate firm’s corporate headquarters in Los Angeles—the first corporate office to achieve the WELL Building Standard Certification—Colicchio is a hands-on manager who spearheads green programs from conception to implementation. She says that sustainability leaders need to engage in a breadth of venues. Here’s her advice.
“Get involved with as many organizations, committees, and industry conferences to network with peers and learn from others.Exchanging ideas and best practices with others will help to continually improve your skills and expand your experience. Seek out all relevant industry certifications and training programs to gain experience and exposure and to learn new skills. The sustainability industry is dynamic and continues to evolve and grow; online news publications and social media outlets are some of the best sources to stay current on topics and trends.”
“Seek opportunities to improve and lead—and embrace change. I regularly read what other top leading firms are doing in sustainability to learn best practices and study where trends are going. Change is inevitable and can be uncomfortable, but change always has positive outcomes. I focus on how I can make change work in my favor to seize on opportunities it presents and expand in new directions I hadn’t considered.”
“Jump in and give back: seek out all opportunities to take on additional responsibilities both as work and in the community. Serve on committees in local business organizations, volunteer for charities; get involved in local community events. The experience that’s gained by working with a wide variety of groups in these diverse environments is priceless and can greatly enhance leadership skill development.”
“Janine Benyus is the queen innovator in the sustainability world. An expert in biomimicry, she employs the principles of nature to influence and inspire innovation and has made significant contributions in studying how nature’s best ideas can solve our toughest 21st century problems. Additionally, Vandana Shiva is truly inspirational and a real environmental superhero. Trained as a physicist and one of the original “tree huggers” (literally) she has dedicated her life to being an advocate, activist and intellectual seeking peace, sustainability and social justice.”
is an independent business writer based in Chicago, with two Eddie Awards and a book to his credit. He also renovates and manages vintage properties, maintains organic gardens, is an avid urban bicyclist, and has competed in 65 triathlons on three continents.
