Energy Hero Spotlight: Mary Wiener

Mary Wiener, CORE’s Senior Energy Concierge, is off to save the world on yet another adventure. Although Mary announced her retirement from CORE and the 9-5 routine earlier this month, she has no intention of slowing down in her role as a climate action hero.

In Mary’s 15 years as a climate champion, she has spanned diverse roles and continents, dedicating work to empowering communities toward sustainability. Whether hiking Colorado trails, exploring distant lands, or mentoring the next generation of climate heroes, her commitment to environmental stewardship remains unwavering. Transitioning from a successful software engineer to an environmental specialist in Bulgaria, Grand Cayman, and then to Colorado, Mary's journey exemplifies the transformative power of passion and purpose.

Throughout her tenure, Mary consistently showcased a rare blend of expertise and empathy. Lindsey Williams, Community Outreach Specialist with Holy Cross Energy shared, “Mary was one of my first mentors. Her generous sharing of knowledge and commitment to excellent customer service was limitless and highlighted through the countless members she guided through smart electrification efforts.”

Mary's impact extends beyond mentorship; she guided transformative projects that reshaped the Roaring Fork Valley toward greener futures. Ryland French, CORE’s Senior Director of Climate Programs and colleague for more than 10 years, praised that, “Mary’s passion for continuous learning and applying that to advancing the built environment has led to helping hundreds of residents and business operators throughout the region reduce our community’s greenhouse gas emissions and improve the spaces they spend their lives in.”

A few of Mary’s most recent contributions with CORE include:

- Advising on innovative electrification solutions, like a heat pump rooftop installation at CCY Architects located in Basalt. From start to finish, Mary supported this commercial project through the design, bidding, and installation process.

- Championing all-electric new builds, including new housing and workspaces. Thanks in part to Mary’s support, English in Action is building an all-electric Center for Communication in El Jebel. The new space will serve as a warm, welcoming, and productive learning environment for adult immigrants and ensure that everyone in the Roaring Fork Valley has a place to feel heard, honored, and celebrated.

- Preserving our history and our environment. She worked with small and historic lodges to assess their energy needs and potential for efficiency upgrades. The St. Mortiz Lodge in Aspen shared that Mary was instrumental in their project plan and that they were extremely appreciative of her help.

As Mary transitions into new endeavors her legacy as a climate action hero will continue to inspire countless others to follow in her footsteps. Tim Johns said, “Her remarkable ability to articulate her convictions, stemming from years of experience, while simultaneously empathizing with the challenges faced by participants, is truly admirable. Moreover, her delightful sense of humor enables her to navigate the delicate balance between candor and tact.”

Mary’s impact, both professionally and personally, is a testament to the remarkable difference one individual can make in the fight against climate change. Her unwavering passion for energy efficiency shines through in every conversation, whether with colleagues, participants, or strangers. She not only advocates for sustainability but embodies it in her daily life, setting a powerful example for others to follow.

Thank you, Mary, for all you have done for our community, and all that is yet to come!