Morgan Leon Guerrero

GUAM

Short-term Fellow – Summer 2022
Mentored by Rebecca Respicio, Guam Energy Offices

Growing up on Guam, Morgan Leon Guerrero felt the energy of her island and her people all around her.  It is no wonder she would be drawn to work in the renewable energy sector.

Before her participation in the Navigating Home program, Leon Guerrero was deeply engaged in her academic pursuits. "Before Navigating Home, I was pursuing my Master of Sustainability Solutions where I focused on renewable energy policy and programs," she stated. This academic background provided a strong theoretical foundation, but she sought opportunities for real-world application on Guam.

The Navigating Home program proved to be a pivotal experience. "The Nav Home program provided me an opportunity to establish local connections," Leon Guerrero explained. "It gave me an opportunity to explore the local workforce in my industry." This direct exposure to Guam's professional landscape was invaluable, offering a clearer understanding of the island's unique needs and the opportunities within her field.

Today, Leon Guerrero is actively contributing to Guam's energy sector as a Special Projects Coordinator at the Guam Energy Office. Her current role involves significant responsibility. "I am managing programs, sitting on advisory groups, and helping secure funding for more programs that help the community lower their energy burden," she detailed. The practical skills and connections fostered by the Navigating Home program have been directly applicable to her current responsibilities.

When asked about her favorite aspect of the program, Leon Guerrero emphasized the tangible benefits it provided. "My favorite thing about the program was that I was able to gain valuable experience that I took back to my master’s program and when I reentered the workforce," she remarked. This hands-on experience not only enriched her academic studies but also proved indispensable in her transition back into the professional arena.

Morgan Leon Guerrero's journey exemplifies the profound impact of the NSF Navigating Home Guam program in developing skilled professionals ready to contribute meaningfully to the island's sustainable future.