Women Leading Change in New Mexico’s Energy Sector

Women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in New Mexico’s energy sector, reflecting a significant shift in an industry traditionally dominated by men. As the state ranks third in the United States for energy production in 2023, with a booming oil and gas sector largely driven by activity in the Permian Basin, these changes come at a pivotal time.

Laurie Williams has been a prominent figure in this transformation. Starting her career at the Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) in 1992, she has risen to the position of senior vice president of integrated planning and transmission development. Over her more than three-decade tenure, Williams has prioritized mentoring young women in the field. “I think representation matters,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of visible role models for aspiring engineers. Williams noted that many young women at PNM are “really top-notch talent,” showcasing diverse leadership styles while balancing family life.

The landscape of New Mexico’s energy sector is evolving. The state is under pressure to reduce emissions while meeting growing energy demands. The 2025 U.S. Energy and Employment Report indicates that approximately one in four energy workers is a woman, with a higher percentage in renewable energy sectors, according to the Center for American Progress.

One significant advancement in female representation occurred with Stephanie Garcia Richard, who became the first woman to serve as the state land commissioner in 2019. Responsible for managing around 9 million surface acres, she has worked to elevate renewable energy development on state trust lands. During her tenure, she established the Office of Renewable Energy and set an ambitious goal to triple the renewable energy portfolio. The outcome has exceeded expectations, with an increase closer to eightfold. Garcia Richard remarked, “I think people maybe don’t realize the potential for energy policy here at the State Land Office.”

Meanwhile, Giorgia Bettin, the geothermal research team manager at Sandia National Laboratories, reflects on her own journey in a male-dominated field. Breaking into engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, she later faced gender disparities head-on in the workforce. Bettin has since become a champion for women entering the energy sector, finding fulfillment in their professional growth. “It’s been so gratifying for me; that’s been a big part of my goals,” she said.

Another key figure is Missi Currier, the first woman to lead the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association. Currier, originally from Carlsbad, returned to New Mexico after gaining experience at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. She has been recognized as one of the 2026 “Influential Women in Energy” by Oil and Gas Investor magazine and has expressed her commitment to mentorship for future leaders in the sector. As she prepares for the 2026 legislative session, Currier aims to address challenges such as increasing the oil and gas conservation tax to support clean-up efforts for orphaned wells.

The intersection of geothermal energy and oil and gas is a topic of interest among these leaders. Bettin noted that developments in enhanced geothermal systems present opportunities for New Mexico. Traditional geothermal production requires specific geological components, but advancements in technology from the oil and gas sector can facilitate the development of geothermal projects. “New Mexico has been on everybody’s radar,” she added, signaling the state’s potential for harnessing this energy source.

While New Mexico’s push for renewable energy has gained momentum, the oil and gas industry still plays a dominant role in state revenue. In fiscal year 2024, renewable project leasing generated over $4.5 million, compared to approximately $2.3 billion from oil and gas royalties. Garcia Richard acknowledges the challenge of maintaining revenue from renewables, stating, “We haven’t found the thing that will do that.”

Looking ahead, PNM is working towards a carbon-free portfolio, currently 70% of the way there. Williams highlights the need for advancements in technologies such as long-duration storage and small modular nuclear reactors to achieve this goal. She also advocates for changes in federal policies regarding transmission lines and streamlined permitting processes to facilitate new projects.

Bettin agrees that additional investment is crucial to kickstart geothermal initiatives, emphasizing the need for successful anchor projects to catalyze further development. The state’s energy workforce and resources align well with the transition towards geothermal energy, making it a viable option for New Mexico’s energy future.

As New Mexico’s energy sector evolves, the contributions of women in leadership roles are reshaping the industry’s landscape. Their dedication to mentorship, innovation, and sustainability is not only paving the way for future generations but also positioning the state as a leader in the transition to a more diverse and environmentally conscious energy economy.