Skilled Workers in Solar: Training and Education for Sustainable Growth

Academic/Professional Qualifications: - Bsc Hons. (Electrical Engineering) University of Nairobi (UON), 1992 - Post Graduate Diploma (Project Planning and management) UON, 2008 - MBA (Strategic management) Kenyatta University, 2013 - PhD (Strategic management) Kenyatta University, 2020 Membership of Professional Bodies: - Registered Consulting Engineer with Engineers Board of Kenya - Fellow Member of the Institute of Engineers of Kenya (FIEK) - Member of Kenya Institute of Management Work Experience: - 15 years at Kenya Power and lighting Company Ltd (KPLC), rose through the ranks from trainee engineer to senior engineer. - 2 years at Rural Electrification Authority as manager in-charge of Distribution Power System Design - 15 years at EPRA, heading the technical regulation of Electricity and Renewable Energy

Thomas is an energy engineer and training specialist with seven years of professional expertise in the sector. He has worked on several grant research initiatives and provided strategic consultancy services across energy transition, renewable technologies, and electric mobility sectors. His research interests are in advancing sustainable energy solutions through multidisciplinary approaches including technical capacity building, applied research, and the development of standards.

Dr. Hamed Beheshti is the CEO and Co-founder of Boreal Light GmbH, a Berlin-based company revolutionizing water access in remote and underserved regions. A visionary leader in sustainable water solutions, he has developed an innovative solar-powered desalination system that delivers affordable and safe drinking water to communities worldwide. Through Boreal Light GmbH and its social enterprise The Crystal Ltd, Dr. Beheshti is driving impactful initiatives to expand access to clean water across East Africa and Latin America. He is also the founder of the OffGrid Water Alliance, a global platform representing the sector and advocating for sustainable water solutions on the international stage. With extensive expertise in renewable energy and water technologies, Dr. Beheshti is a sought-after speaker, inspiring audiences worldwide and leading critical discussions on addressing water scarcity for a more sustainable and equitable future.

Hilda Simiyu is a results-driven Solar Engineer and Renewable Energy Project Manager with over six years of experience leading solar energy projects across East Africa. She serves as the Chairperson of Women in Sustainable Energy and Entrepreneurship (WISEe) Ltd, empowering over 300 women annually through training and mentorship in solar technologies and entrepreneurship. With expertise in project design, implementation, and quality control, she has managed the successful completion of over 50 solar energy projects and works in enhancing energy access for the underserved. A passionate advocate for a just energy transition, Hilda combines technical excellence with leadership to foster sustainable development in Africa.

Hanna holds a Master of Science in Environmental Governance from the University of Freiburg. With a wealth of experience in the energy sector, she has managed projects across Uganda, Brazil, and Kenya for GIZ. In her current role as Programme Director for Energy, Transport, and Climate Change at GIZ Kenya, she leads a diverse portfolio focused on renewable energy, green hydrogen, energy access, and climate change advisory and is committed to fostering collaboration with the Kenyan government to drive a Just Transition toward a sustainable future.