Kirsten Holston
(She/Her)
Civil Engineer & Cost Estimator, Acciona Energy
American living in Chicago, Illinois USA
Kirsten is a civil engineer and cost estimator passionate about the environment and social justice. As an engineer, she aims to be a driving force in creating a world that is more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable for all communities.
Kirsten earned a Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering and a minor in Building Industrial Modeling from Purdue University. In addition to engineering studies, she was part of several research tours abroad and worked to organize support for social justice initiatives for marginalized groups. Her studies and activism lead to a keen interest in the intersection of social equity, environmental policy, and access to a sustainable future.
Gravitating to real-world application of sustainable practices and solutions, Kirsten entered the renewable energy industry. One of the significant hurdles in reducing the level of future global emissions is energy needs. Currently, most of the world relies on fossil fuels as the primary source of energy. Green energy – wind, solar, hydrogen, and hydrology are all part of making a more sustainable future. Kirsten works with an international team of engineers, to evaluate solar, wind and battery projects from preliminary specifications and location assessments; to design and then to final completion with structures in the ground.
Additionally, she is part of the Global Excellence Team for civil design initiatives with her company. In the greater Chicago area, she is working with organizations to champion environmental policy in Illinois and empowering those from marginalized groups to pursue STEM.
