Kate Ahern

Program Manager, MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI) Future Energy Systems Center

Ambassador

Kate Ahern is a seasoned program manager with a rich strategic operations and research facilitation background. As a Program Manager for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Energy Initiative (MITEI) Future Energy Systems Center, Ahern manages operations for over 40 decarbonization projects, empowering the Center’s 38 member companies to make informed, strategic decisions regarding their own decarbonization efforts. She is responsible for growing the Center's research portfolio and managing key workshops spotlighting leading energy transition experts.

Previously, Ahern managed Professor Michael Porter’s Microeconomics of Competitiveness (MOC) Network, which created the local capacity to understand, teach, and upgrade competitiveness through a highly scalable structure. She was also integral in disseminating Michael Porter’s Creating Shared Value (CSV) concept through Harvard Business School MBA and Executive Education courses. CSV involves designing corporate policies and practices that enhance the company’s competitive advantage and profitability while advancing social and economic conditions in the communities where it operates. Frequently, this involves finding eco-friendly solutions in the value chain. Ahern also gained valuable experience working with an environmental consulting firm in Washington, DC, and Cleantech Open Northeast.

Ahern received her MLA in Sustainability and Environmental Management from the Harvard Extension School and her BA in Interdisciplinary Studies: Communications, Legal Institutions, Economics, and Government (CLEG) from American University.