What a Managing Director at Work on Climate Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Climate Industry
Inbal, a Managing Director at Work on Climate, learned that deep technical expertise isn't a prerequisite for a climate career, wishing someone had told them "to go for it" sooner. The reality, according to Inbal, is that "there's gonna be a lot of learning on the job," with transferable skills proving more valuable than initially perceived.
Career Exploration, Job Search, Communication, Overcoming Challenges, Industry Realities
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Inbal Nachman
Managing Director, Programs & Communication
Work on Climate
UC Berkeley - Class of 2012
INSEAD - MBA 2018
Ethnic & Related Studies
Climate, Environment, Sustainability & Waste Management
Operations and Project Management
Honors Student, Immigrant
Video Highlights
1. You don't need deep technical expertise to start a career in climate change. Transferable skills are valuable.
2. There's a lot of on-the-job learning in the climate sector.
3. Don't let a lack of specialized knowledge discourage you from pursuing a career in climate change.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
I used to think I needed extensive technical expertise in the climate sector. The reality is, climate change impacts so many different areas.
It's impossible for one person to possess all the deep technical knowledge for whatever area you're entering. Therefore, I've learned that you don't need to be a deep technical expert in the field you're in.
I really wish someone had told me this sooner. I experienced a lot of anxiety when looking for jobs in climate. It even discouraged me from applying because I believed I lacked the necessary skills and knowledge.
That simply isn't true. There's a significant amount of on-the-job learning, and you likely possess many applicable skills you don't realize can be used in the climate sector. Most people are currently transferring their existing skills to this new sector.
So, I just wish someone had encouraged me to go for it.