Editor's Note: This blog is cross-posted from the Clean Energy, Education, Empowerment (C3E) online network, www.c3enet.org. Learn more about C3E here.

I am delighted to be serving as a C3E Ambassador.  The retreat in July was my first and I learned a ton and deeply enjoyed meeting the other Ambassadors and C3E Leaders.  Here are my biggest takeaways: 

1. The energy in a room of smart, accomplished people doing what they love is electric!
2. The Ambassadors are amazing, fun leaders from all areas of clean energy.
3. LOTS of accomplished women in clean energy were nominated for the Mid-Career Awards.  Picking winners was difficult but inspiring.  Our future is bright.
4. The male Ambassadors were some of the most passionate advocates for women.
5. Your legacy lives on.  We saw that in big ways (meeting at the beautiful Endicott House donated to MIT) and small ways (a group discussion of the power of a student comment at last year’s C3E Symposium).
6. The world is still small.  After 30+ years, many miles and varied career paths, we learned that two Ambassadors grew up in the same middle class neighborhood in Dayton, Ohio!
7. Diversity of communication styles is important.  Appreciate those styles and remember to listen and be respectful.
8. I love social media, especially Twitter (@britteide), but in-person connections are PRICELESS!
9. People really will help you.  The networking and advice between the Ambassadors was powerful.
10. Chocolate matters!  Dessert is key.  Fun and laughter are paramount.

Thank you to DOE and MIT for this amazing C3E program.  I look forward to seeing many of you in a few weeks at the Symposium.