Kristin Barbato currently serves as the Deputy Commissioner and Chief Energy Management Officer of New York City where she manages the city’s $1 Billion annual energy budget, impacting more than 4,000 buildings city-wide. An experienced leader in business development, strategic planning, engineering, IT, and operations across the energy sector, Kristin was named as one of New York’s Top 10 Women in Energy by Breaking Energy during New York Energy Week 2013.
Mei Poon: What are your expectations or vision for New York Energy Week five years from now?
Kristin Barbato: Hopefully, New York Energy Week will continue to grow every year with participation and impact to the New York energy market. It would be great if we could track actual project and economic growth from the relationships and discussions fostered through NYEW events.
MP: What are you most excited about for New York Energy Week 2014?
KB: I’m excited to see everyone at the Opening Ceremony and Closing Ceremony! Although not the spectacle of the Olympic games, I guarantee there will be better conversation and wine.
MP: What is your favorite invention/ technology in Energy sector?
KB: The flux capacitor.
MP: What is one opportunity/ challenge you hope will be addressed during New York Energy Week 2014?
KB: I hope to go back to 1985 in the Delorean with the flux capacitor (and a little boost from 1.21GW).
MP: What is your favorite New York City landmark?
KB: I love seeing the Empire State Building on the horizon. It’s like NYC’s beacon in the skyline and always makes me feel like I’m home.
MP: What is it like to be one of the few women in leadership, especially in Energy sector? What are some advice for young women starting a career in energy business?
KB: It’s great! I’ve loved being in this sector since my college internship at Con Edison which was, well… many years ago. My advice for young women starting a career in energy is simple: stay curious and sit up straight (thanks mom).
MP: Personal Fun Fact: What is something people might not know about you? For example, as I was told you are a dog-lover. how would you describe your dogs’ character?
KB: Oh, don’t get me started on the pups! I’ll bore you to tears with zillions of photos, videos, anecdotes about playing with their toys, their home-cooked food… Reilly is the playful protector and Titus is the cuddly mischievous one. They are a great pair.
