How would you introduce yourself to a stranger?

My name is Tiffany Huynh and I am Director of External Affairs at Elemental Excelerator. I was recently reminded that most family and friends have no idea what I do. Being in marketing for the majority of my career, it’s often hard for folks to grasp what that looks like day-to-day compared to being an accountant or teacher. Currently, I spend my time working to bring awareness about the effects of climate change and connect opportunities for collaboration in this space, whether through other organizations, policy, or students. Outside of work, I support a number of nonprofit boards, including Ho‘ala School, Ho‘ala Foundation for Education, HawaiiKidsCAN and Wastewater Alternatives Innovation (WAI).

Throughout my career, I have gotten more and more comfortable with being a jack of many trades but master of none. I used to crave mastery of a subject, industry or skill. But over the years, I have learned it is one of my greatest strengths—adaptability to cross industries and groups, while applying all of the transferable skills from lessons past. Amongst friends and colleagues, I am often the connector and network weaver. Since I have the privilege to learn about different people’s work, I will draw connections in my mind and help spur synergies. Whether it is climate, education, or uplifting community voices and perspectives, I see myself as a champion for the greater community, and use my seat to help where I can.

In the next 10 years, what do you hope to see in your industry?

Hawai‘i has done an amazing job at laying the groundwork for a transition to clean, local energy. We’ve more than tripled our renewable energy in the last dozen years. Now, we’re focused on accelerating this transition, particularly in energy efficiency, transportation, and food. In the next 10 years, I hope to see these developments continue and not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but also increase liveable wage jobs, better housing, healthy food options, and lower energy bills. And, with more federal funding backing climate initiatives, I’m hopeful that climate will be recognized as the foundation for all decisions that are made at every level.

What do you love most about your job?

Just from being surrounded by my team, I am constantly reminded there are genuinely kind, smart and hard-working people in this world. I love that this is an organization based in Hawai‘i. When I first returned from working in Sydney, Australia, for a few years, I was worried about finding a role that aligned values with career. I often tell people this is my dream job. When I saw the job description, it felt surreal that all of my past experience and passion for bettering our environment came together in one role.

What are some of the biggest challenges facing your industry?

We understand climate change is inextricably linked with the compounding injustices of poverty, racism, and displacement. As our industry spearheads the transition to a clean energy future, one of our biggest challenges is ensuring we’re being inclusive and equitable so affected communities are included in all the decision-making. We are also challenged by the prevalence of climate change propaganda, which impedes our ability to shift general awareness and inspire urgent action.

What has been the biggest reward?

I always say everything happens for a reason. There are times in your career when you’re not sure if it’s worth it to keep going—the easy decision is to step away. There are many instances where you have to make the conscious decision to either lead or follow. Sometimes leading means you are stepping out and taking a chance on ideas and opinions that aren’t yet normalized.

I think the most rewarding moments have been a culmination of the many small wins that have helped me build the courage I needed to step out and speak up. I truly believe that a woman’s gut and intuition is one of the strongest tools in our arsenal. I’ve learned to listen to mine.

At Elemental, we categorize things into Type 1 or Type 2 fun. You can think of Type 1 as fun in the traditional sense. Type 2 fun is vulnerable and difficult while you’re in it, but in the end all stakeholders come out with more clarity and a deeper perspective. In a world where our default culture often prioritizes perfectionism and exclusivity, it’s always helpful to pause and reflect on equity to examine the impact our actions have. The results of this are the most rewarding parts of my career.

What failure taught you the biggest lesson?

One of the biggest lessons I have learned is around making hiring decisions. I have made some missteps in hiring because of a self-imposed sense of urgency. I’ve learned that is the biggest mistake you can make in building a strong team. This is absolutely an area where patience is a virtue. You need to make sure the person is not only competent but more importantly values-aligned. Getting this right is the difference between a thriving company culture or a toxic one.

What makes you stand out as a leader?

When you can be kind and firm in your beliefs all at the same time.