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Name: Laura Roberts

Title: Senior Director, Conceptual Engineering

Education: Bachelor's Degree, Chemical Engineering, Colorado School of Mines

MBA, University of Colorado at Denver

Company Description:

Xcel Energy is a company that helps power everyday life by providing electricity and natural gas to millions of homes, schools, and businesses across eight states, including Colorado. The company uses a mix of energy sources--such as wind, solar, water, nuclear energy, and natural gas--to keep the lights on safely and reliably, even during extreme weather. Xcel Energy is widely recognized as a leader in clean energy, operating some of the largest wind energy systems in the country and continuing to expand its use of renewable power like wind and solar. Thousands of people work at Xcel Energy in roles ranging from engineers and scientists to technicians and computer experts, all working together to support communities and build a cleaner, brighter energy future.

Tell us more about your job.

My team and I are responsible for planning energy projects from the very beginning. We start by understanding a problem on the energy system and figuring out the best solution to address it. That means working with many different stakeholders to identify everything needed to build the project and making sure it meets safety, engineering, and company standards. We develop a detailed project schedule and cost estimate, which helps set the project up for success. Once planning is complete, we hand the project over to the execution team, who purchase materials, assign crews, and build the project in the field.

Why is STEM important within your industry?

STEM--science, technology, engineering, and math--is essential to the energy industry because it helps people design, build, and operate the systems that power our lives. Energy companies rely on STEM skills to keep electricity reliable and safe, to manage complex power grids, and to develop cleaner ways to produce energy such as wind and solar power. As technology continues to change how energy is generated, stored, and delivered, STEM knowledge helps solve real‑world problems like using energy more efficiently, protecting communities during extreme weather, and reducing environmental impacts. STEM careers in energy also offer opportunities to work with advanced technology, collaborate in teams, and make a meaningful difference in how communities and the planet are cared for--today and in the future.

Was there a specific moment when you decided you wanted to pursue STEM as a career?

In seventh grade, I took an engineering elective class where I built an LED flashing heart. I loved following the instructions, putting the pieces together, and seeing something I built actually work. Being able to take it home and show it to my friends and family made it even more exciting. That experience was the first time I seriously considered engineering as a future career. Since I was also strong in math and science, STEM continued to interest me throughout middle and high school and remained a path I chose to pursue.

What do you like best about your job?

One of the things I enjoy most about my job is mentoring younger engineers. I love supporting them, sharing what I've learned, and helping them explore what their future careers might look like. It's especially meaningful to help others build confidence and find paths that excite them.

I also really value knowing that the work I do helps provide energy--an essential service that people rely on every day to live, work, and thrive.

I've been with Xcel Energy for almost 20 years, and I appreciate the many opportunities I've had to learn different parts of the company and its operations. That experience has helped me become a connector--I know a little bit about a lot, and I can often help people find the right expert or team to answer a question or solve a problem.

What are the most important skills needed in your job?

Some of the most important skills in my job are problem‑solving, communication, and organization. We often start with a complex problem on the energy system, so being able to think critically and break that problem into manageable pieces is essential. Communication is just as important, because I work with many different stakeholders and teams, and it's critical to listen, ask good questions, and clearly explain ideas so everyone is aligned. Strong organizational and planning skills help ensure projects stay on schedule, within budget, and meet safety and engineering standards. Finally, curiosity and a willingness to keep learning are key, since the energy industry and technology are always evolving.

Have there been times in your career when you've faced difficult challenges? How were you able to overcome them?

One challenge I've faced is being an introvert in environments where the loudest voice in the room often gets the most attention. Early in my career, it sometimes felt like speaking up meant being the most vocal or assertive person in the meeting. Over time, I learned that my value doesn't come from being the loudest--it comes from being thoughtful, prepared, and strategic. I've found that I do my best work as a builder in the background: listening carefully, connecting ideas, and helping teams move forward in a purposeful way. Introverts bring important strengths like deep thinking, collaboration, and follow‑through, and those qualities are just as critical to success as speaking first or the most often. Embracing who I am, instead of trying to change myself, has helped me contribute in meaningful ways and build a career that plays to my strengths.

Are there any hobbies, sports, or other interests of yours that have helped you excel in your career?

Many of my hobbies don't directly relate to my job in a technical way, but they help me create balance--and that balance is what allows me to show up fully at work. I enjoy reading, doing puzzles, and playing video games and board games, all of which help me relax, think differently, and recharge. While I used to run, I've learned to listen to my body and focus on activities that reduce stress rather than add to it. One interest that has had a strong impact on my career is volunteering. I love giving back to the community, and Xcel Energy makes it easy by offering a wide variety of volunteer opportunities. Volunteering helps me stay connected to others, reminds me why our work matters, and gives me energy and perspective that I carry into my job every day.

What advice would you give to girls of all ages who are interested in STEM?

There are so many different paths within science, technology, engineering, and math, and exploring STEM can lead you to careers you may not even know exist yet. STEM skills are valuable across many industries and give you flexibility to learn, grow, and adapt as your interests change over time. STEM gives you the opportunity to make a real difference in the world--whether that's helping people, supporting communities, protecting the planet, or solving problems that matter. There is space in STEM for creativity, collaboration, and people who want their work to have purpose.

Any additional thoughts on why it's important to get more girls involved in STEM?

When people with different backgrounds, experiences, and ways of thinking work together, the solutions are stronger and more creative. Simply put, more brains are better than one, and more diverse voices help us arrive at better answers. By encouraging more girls to explore STEM, we are helping ensure that problems are solved and the future is shaped by teams that truly reflect the community.