Meet Isa Cossio
ISA COSSIO - PROJECT ENGINEER
What experience did you have prior to joining Enterprise Energy?
Before joining Enterprise Energy, I gained a diverse range of experiences through both work and volunteer opportunities. I graduated from Brown University in May 2024, and took advantage of internships during my college summers. Additionally, during my gap year in 2020-2021, I pursued three different job and volunteer positions, all centered around my passion for climate solutions. I proactively sought out opportunities that aligned with my values—like my internship with an aquaponics startup in Portland, where I learned about innovative sustainable agriculture practices. I also volunteered at the Homeless Garden Project, a farm that supports the community and local agriculture through a CSA program. Last summer I worked at a startup focused on designing bulk food dispensers that eliminate plastic waste, where I first began using CAD software and discovered my enthusiasm for it.
What do you like about working in solar?
You might wonder how I can answer this question as a new member of the solar industry, but I was lucky to have had the opportunity to intern at Enterprise Energy this summer, and I am excited to be back! My interest in solar stems from my academic background; I chose to major in Environmental Engineering with the expectation of focusing on renewable energy technologies. From a young age, I felt a responsibility to combat climate change. Even in elementary school, I always gave presentations and wrote essays advocating for environmental action among my peers, and would even tape up hand-drawn awareness posters around the school. While I understood the importance of this work in elementary school, I didn’t fully grasp the complexities involved until I began studying the field. My summer experience reinforced this realization that transitioning to renewable energy is challenging and requires dedication, but it’s essential for creating a sustainable future. I believe I have the skills, knowledge, and therefore a duty, to contribute to this movement. Although I’m still exploring where I fit best and how I can maximize my impact, I'm so excited to be part of the solar industry at such a crucial time.
Why did you want to work in Community Solar?
I’ll admit that I wasn’t familiar with Community Solar before applying for this position. However, once I learned about it, I was hooked. Community Solar offers a rapid way to integrate clean energy into the grid and has a larger impact than projects like individual rooftop installations. I was particularly drawn to its potential to benefit historically underrepresented communities. Those who may not own homes, lack suitable roofs, or face financial obstacles should not be excluded from the advantages of renewable energy. With Community Solar, they are able to become subscribers in order to enjoy reductions on their electric bills. Additionally, our projects support farmers in the Midwest by providing guaranteed income from land leases for 25 to 35 years, helping stabilize their financial situation. In the fight against climate change, it’s important to act quickly while also considering community needs and ensuring everyone’s voice is heard. I’m thrilled that Community Solar allows us to achieve both environmental and social goals, although I’m sure there’s still room for improvement on both fronts.
What is your current role at EE?
As a Project Engineer at Enterprise Energy, I’m actively involved in the exciting world of renewable energy and get to participate in many parts of the entire process. I use AutoCAD to craft detailed site layouts and collaborate across teams to assess project feasibility and navigate the complexities of interconnection and permitting processes. My role includes managing applications with utility companies, coordinating with a variety of stakeholders, and keeping everyone informed on project progress and milestones. I also focus on continuous improvement, ensuring our projects run as smoothly and efficiently as possible. It’s fulfilling to know I’m contributing to meaningful projects that put clean energy on the grid.
A little more about me:
University/Major: Brown University, BS in Environmental Engineering
Hobbies: Surfing, tennis, hiking, biking, yoga, healthy cooking and baking, arts & crafts
Professional goals:
I’m very excited to be starting my career in renewable energy, as I know it plays a crucial role in moving towards a sustainable future. As I continue down this path, my goal is to immerse myself in solar: learn as much as I can, contribute positively to our company’s projects and objectives, and also have an impact beyond EE. Specifically within community solar, eventually I hope to take on more responsibility in the space and further support the equal access aspect of our work.
