Metropolitan Energy Center

April Energy Benchmarking Training #1
2024-04-10 12:30 - 13:30 (America/Chicago) | Webinar
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on Wednesday, April 10, to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2023 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.

March Energy Benchmarking Training (Virtual)
2024-03-20 12:30 - 13:30
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on the below dates to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2023 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.

Save this date! First Thursday Happy Hour
2024-03-07 17:30 - 19:00 | Venue TBD
Our dedicated staff who care about sustainable energy use through clean fuels in our transportation is working on a sweet location for transportation-reliant business leaders to chat about ways toward more funding for better roadways and vehicles. Stay tuned for details!

Residential Energy Code Standards & Trends
2024-03-05 13:00 - 2024-03-06 17:00 | Westport Plexpod, 300 E 39th St, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111, United States
Last fall, the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) went into effect in Kansas City, MO. Join MEC for a free, multi-day training to prepare for the new requirements.
This course will provide an overview of the history of the IECC in the International Residential Code (IRC) and its multiple compliance paths – including the role of a HERS® Rater.
Using 2021 IECC curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques. The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.
Tuesday, March 5; 1-5pm: Part 1-Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
Wednesday, March 6; 1-5pm: Part 2- Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)

February Energy Benchmarking Training (Virtual)
2024-02-21 12:30 - 13:30

Save this date! First Thursday Happy Hour
2024-02-01 17:30 - 19:00 | Venue TBD
Our dedicated staff who care about sustainable energy use through energy efficient buildings is working on a sweet location for building design and construction business leaders to chat about ways toward more funding for better buildings. Stay tuned for details!

January Energy Benchmarking Training (Virtual)
2024-01-24 12:30 - 13:30

Good Energy Happy Hour: 24 Advocacy Moves in 2024
2024-01-04 17:30 - 19:00 | Polsinelli, 900 W 48th Pl, Kansas City, Missouri, 64112, United States
Join us to discuss the upcoming year’s hottest energy topics at our monthly Happy Hour Mixer for professionals and enthusiasts. This invite-only, low-key networking event is the perfect opportunity to expand your circles while enjoying a delightful evening at the lovely Polsinelli headquarters building. Appetizers and drinks are on us.

Connect with like-minded advocates within the environmental and energy spaces. Exchange ideas, and start valuable future partnerships for effective action. Whether you’re a policymaker, a business owner, a nonprofit leader, or simply looking to make new connections, this event is not to be missed. Don’t forget to bring your business cards and a smile!

Can’t make it but still want to be involved in making a better energy reality for all?

Consider a year-end gift to propel advocacy for policy improvements in 2024.

Just for Transportation Professionals – MEC's Monthly Business Networking Mixer
2023-12-07 17:30 - 19:00 | Gates Bar-B-Q, 1325 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd, Kansas City, Missouri, 64110, United States
Monthly Business Networking Mixer

Join guest speaker and electric vehicle industry entrepreneur Hosea Haywood for our Monthly Business Networking Mixer for transportation professionals at Gates’ Barbecue on Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd in Kansas City. This invite-only, low-key networking event is the perfect opportunity to expand your professional circles while enjoying a delightful evening at one of our city’s finest establishments. Appetizers are on us.

Connect with like-minded transportation professionals, exchange ideas, and start valuable future funding partnerships. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a business owner, or simply looking to make new connections, this event is not to be missed. Don’t forget to bring your business cards and a smile!

Medium- and Heavy-duty EV Showcase
2023-10-17 12:30 - 15:30 | City Of Olathe Public Works Department, 1385 South Robinson Street Dr., Olathe, Kansas, 66061, United States
Join us to ride (and possibly drive) the latest in medium- and heavy-duty zero emission trucks.
We are working with Olathe Public Works and multiple truck manufacturers to show what’s happening at the weighty end of things. From all-electric pickups to a Class 8 yard truck, it’s your chance to check out zero-emission units capable of some serious heavy lifting.
Along with our friends in Olathe, we are welcoming members of the Kansas City Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association and the general public.
Our goal? To show how much today’s electric trucks can do.

Location and Parking:
Click on the + Google Map link on the left. You’ll see “City of Olathe Public Works Department” at the north end of the large rectangular building which is their fleet garage. We’ll meet there, on the east side, near the north end. There’s angle parking on the west side of Robinson. You can also use the east side of Robinson to parallel park.
Our sincere thanks to the following truck manufacturers and owners helping us host this event: Orange EV, ZEVX, XOS Trucks, Foley Rig 360, and WaterOne.

Residential Energy Code Standards & Trends
2023-10-10 13:00 - 2023-10-11 17:00 | Westport Plexpod, 300 E 39th St, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111, United States
This fall the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) will go into effect in Kansas City, MO. Join MEC for free, multi-day training to prepare for the new requirements.
This course will provide an overview of the history of the IECC in the International Residential Code (IRC) and its multiple compliance paths – including the role of a HERS® Rater.
Using 2021 IECC curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques. The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.
Tuesday, October 10; 1-5pm: Part 1-Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
Wednesday, October 11; 1-5pm: Part 2- Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)

National Clean Energy Action Month - October
2023-10-04 08:00 - 2023-11-01 17:00
Wondering what’s all the fuss about electric vehicles (EVs)?
Overwhelmed by the EV and energy efficiency tax credits you keep hearing about?
Want to improve the comfort of your home or business, but don’t know where to begin?

Throughout October MEC will be at events across the Kansas City metro talking all things efficiency. In honor of National Clean Energy Action Month, we will highlight some of staff’s favorite EV features and hold raffles for a few lucky participates to win home energy efficiency kits.
EVENTS
Can’t make an event? Follow us on social media and sign-up for our newsletter to learn about tips, resources, and actions you can take in your own community.

Kansas City Jewish Culture Fest (Overland Park, KS): Sunday, Oct. 15; 11am-6:30pm

Medium– and Heavy-duty EV Truck Showcase (Olathe, KS): Tuesday, Oct. 17; 12-3pm

University of Kansas Medical Center Sustainability Fair (KCK): Monday, Oct. 23; 12-1pm

What is an energy code anyway? Policymakers hold the keys to better buildings (Virtual): Wednesday, Oct. 25; 12-1pm

Green Drinks at Project Living Proof, MEC’s energy demo home (KCMO): Thursday, Oct. 26; 6-8pm

Haunt on the Vine (KCMO): Tuesday, October 31; 4-7pm

Ivanhoe Trunk or Treat and Halloween Fest (KCMO): Tuesday, October 31; 5:30-8pm
Indicates EVs will be present.
Indicates energy efficiency kits will be available.

DRIVE Electric ICT 2023
2023-09-30 13:00 - 16:00
Join us for SOAR’s 6th annual National Drive Electric Week!
We will be at Towne East Square this year north of the chargers off Rock Rd. MEC will have a table set up for anyone interested in learning more about EVs, how to help pay for the vehicle and infrastructure, and the work we do at MEC.

Cloud County CC’s Renewable Energy trailer will be joining this year, along with the City of Wichita’s Mike Tann will be bringing an electric bus to answer any questions you might have. Be sure to ask him about the new solar powered Transit Center! There will be lots of information available and some EV and SOAR swag to pick up, too!

If you would like to show off your EVs and talk to those interested in buying one for themselves:
Plan to bring your EV between 12 and 12:30 to get a good spot. EVs and plugin hybrids are all welcome.
If you have an EV you are thinking of selling, be sure to bring it and let us know so we can advertise it for you on this event page!
We have only 30 spaces so please register your EV below so you are sure to have a spot!
https://driveelectricweek.org/event?eventid=3830

Electric Fleets 101
2023-09-26 12:00 - 13:30 | Webinar
Electric cars are on the move. In 2022, battery-electric and plug-in hybrids totaled more than 7% of light-duty cars and trucks on America’s roads. Half a million more EV cars and trucks were registered in the first half of 2023 alone.
It’s not just light-duty passenger cars, either. Manufacturers are offering more medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission options. And as this EV market grows, so does interest from all kinds of fleets – municipal, freight, school district and delivery. That’s why KC Regional Clean Cities is hosting “Electric Fleets 101” on Tuesday, September 26th from 12:00 – 1:30 CDT.
We’ll provide real-world insights from two professionals working to shift their fleets to electric, focusing on best practices, lessons learned and how to plan for changing technologies. Robert Aaron with the City of Lawrence and Matthew Betz with DTE (formerly Detroit Edison) will discuss their experiences, challenges and goals.
And, as always for Clean Cities events, your questions are welcome!
Register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5516319539454179936
Feel free to contact david.albrecht@metroenergy.org with any questions.

Energy Benchmarking Training
2023-09-13 12:30 - 13:30
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to learn how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join MEC for our upcoming webinar to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2022 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements.
During the webinar, our Building Performance team will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.
Wednesday, September 13; 12:30-1:30pm

Commercial Energy Code Standards & Trends
2023-08-23 13:00 - 2023-08-24 17:00 | Sheet Metal Workers International Association, 2902 Blue Ridge Blvd, Kansas City, 64129, United States
This fall the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) will go into effect in Kansas City, MO. Join MEC for free, multi-day training to prepare for the new requirements.
This course will provide an overview of the history of the commercial requirements in the IECC and the development of multiple compliance paths. Using 2021 curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques.
The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.
Wednesday, Aug. 23; 1-5pm: Part 1-Commercial Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
Thursday, Aug. 24; 1-5pm: Part 2- Commercial Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
Join us the morning prior as industry experts discuss the historic incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act, local resources, and updates in the commercial industry. Admission is free, but space is limited.

Everything Energy Savings for Commercial Buildings
2023-08-22 08:00 - 09:30 | Anita Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
You’re invited to an informational session covering all things energy savings in commercial buildings! This event is brought to you by Evergy in partnership with U. S. Green Building Council (USGBC) – Central Plains, Metropolitan Energy Center, and TRC Companies.
Join us on Tuesday, August 22 from 8:00 – 9:30 am for coffee, breakfast, and networking while industry experts review 2023’s higher-than-ever incentives, efficiency best practices, and energy updates related to commercial buildings. Topics discussed:

Energy efficiency incentives expiring 12/31/23
EV charging station rebates
Demand response program
USGBC and LEED updates
MEC and Benchmarking news
Status of Kansas energy efficiency filing

Admission is free, spots are limited!

2023 Energy Forum - Electrifying the Future
2023-08-15 07:30 - 17:00 | Harrah’s Kansas City North Casino, 1 Riverboat Drive, Kansas City, MO, 64116, United States
Join MEC at the 2023 Energy Forum hosted by the Electric League of Kansas and Missouri.

The forum’s sessions will feature actionable recommendations that will help municipalities and businesses electrify the future, reach their goals, and save money. Attendees will also learn about the billions of dollars in government and utility incentives available to area businesses to help cover the cost of building upgrades, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, EVs, and solar projects. Check out the line-up of speakers here.
Visit MEC outside at the fleet ride & drive portion of the forum for a personal demo/ride of one of the below EVs + others.

Foley Power Solutions semi-truck and step-up van
Viatec custom utility truck
Orange EV terminal truck
Ford F-150 Lightning
Volkswagen ID.4

Register today to save your spot!

Residential Energy Code Standards & Trends
2023-07-25 13:00 - 2023-07-27 17:00 | Westport Plexpod, 300 E 39th St, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111, United States
This fall the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) will go into effect in Kansas City, MO. Join MEC for free, multi-day training to prepare for the new requirements.

This course will provide an overview of the history of the IECC in the International Residential Code (IRC) and its multiple compliance paths – including the role of a HERS® Rater.
Using 2021 IECC curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques. The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.
Incentives available through the Inflation Reduction Act will also be highlighted.

Tuesday, July 25; 1-5pm: Part 1-Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
Wednesday, July 26; 1-5pm: Part 2- Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
NEW! OPEN OFFICE HOURS – Thursday, July 27; 1-5pm: Receive expert insight on how to implement the 2021 IECC into your plans.

Energy Benchmarking Training
2023-07-19 12:30 - 13:30
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to learn how to track your building’s energy and water use?
Join MEC for our upcoming webinar to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2022 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements.
During the webinar, our Building Performance team will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.
Wednesday, July 19; 12:30-1:30pm

Electric Experience
2023-06-24 09:00 - 15:00 | Anita Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Experience a variety of electric vehicles (EVs), and discover the fun, convenience, and value of driving electric. All you need to bring is your curiosity and questions. If would like to drive a vehicle, a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance is required.

Over 10 makes & models in one place. Find the EV that’s right for you!
No sales pitches. Test drive without pressure to buy.
Learn about charging rebates. Get up to $500 towards the installation of home EV charging.

Healthy Housing Workshop Series - Part 2: How to Make Your Home Lead-Safe
2023-06-21 18:00 - 19:15 | Project Living Proof, 917 Emanuel Cleaver Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 64109
Many historic homes in Kansas City were built before 1978 and may contain lead. Lead can be found in chipping paint and dust, toys, make-up, and even the dirt outside your home. Exposure can have significant health impacts on children and expecting moms that live in your home.
Join Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC), Habitat for Humanity of Kansas City, and the City of KCMO Health Dept. for part two of our Healthy Housing Workshop Series, How to Make Your Home Lead-Safe. During this in-person workshop, attendees will learn about the dangers of lead, how to get tested for lead poisoning, and the programs available to make your home safe for your loved ones.

Energy Benchmarking Training
2023-06-21 12:30 - 13:30
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on the below dates to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2022 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.
June 21st – 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

Energy Benchmarking Training
2023-05-17 12:30 - 13:30
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on the below dates to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2021 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.
May 17th – 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

Do-It-Yourself Energy Savings Projects
2023-05-11 18:00 - 19:00 | Habitat for Hummanity of Kansas City, 1423 Linwood Boulevard, Kansas City, MO, 64109, United States
A typical American family spends nearly $2,000 per year on their home energy bills. Much of that money, however, is wasted through leaky windows or ducts, old appliances, or inefficient heating and cooling systems.
Join Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC), Habitat for Humanity of Kansas City, and the City of KCMO Health Dept. for part one of our Healthy Housing Workshop Series, Do-It-Yourself Energy Savings Projects. During this in-person workshop, attendees will learn easy, step-by-step instructions for home energy efficiency improvements that will save money while improving the comfort, health, and safety of your home.
Register today!

Energy Benchmarking Training
2023-04-26 12:30 - 13:30
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?

Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on the below dates to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2021 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.

April 26th – 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

Register Today!

Meet Your Presenters

Mary English, Program Manager, Building Performance

Prior to joining MEC in 2021, Mary worked in the sustainable built environment industry conducting energy assessments, testing, consultation, and overall experience in the field of building performance in both the residential and commercial sectors.

Mary founded Small Step Energy Solutions LLC which became a leading home energy assessment provider, as well as a building consultant for sustainable new buildings and homes. During this time, Small Step worked with municipalities – including the Kansas City, MO codes department – to review and update building energy codes. She also worked closely with area developers to create sustainable developments and multi-family housing based on equity goals. Mary then moved into commercial-business sustainability, helping start-up businesses in passive house panel construction; energy benchmarking; and efficiency upgrades in commercial HVAC systems. She currently serves on the Programs Committee for the USGBC Central Plains Community; and the Equity Committee for Climate Action Kansas City.

Brittanie Giroux, Sr. Program Coordinator, Building Performance

Brittanie joined MEC as an AmeriCorps VISTA member in October of 2020. She came to MEC after completing a previous AmeriCorps service year in the City of Evanston, IL’s Office of Sustainability where she led climate education initiatives and was involved in energy and waste franchise agreement processes.

In October of 2021, Brittanie came on board full time as MEC’s Building Performance Associate. In this role, she manages the Healthy Housing Taskforce, co-manages the Energy and Water Benchmarking program, creates social content and newsletters, and conducts community outreach and events. Brittanie received her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Vanderbilt University.

Energy Benchmarking Office Hours
2023-04-25 09:00 - 17:00 | Westport Plexpod, 300 E 39th St, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111, United States
Need help with the benchmarking process before the May 1st deadline? Metropolitan Energy Center is here to help!
We are offering 45 minute in-person office hour appointments on Tuesday, April 25.
Please arrive at Plexpod with any questions you may have, along with your laptop, and 12 full months of utility bills (electric, gas, water).
There is free parking in the above ground parking lot on 39th and Warwick.

Mid America Electric Automobile Association's Annual Earth Day EVent
2023-04-22 11:00 - 15:30
MAEAA Earth Day EV Ride and Drive
Want to learn more about electric vehicles, driving electric, the technology, the fun, or the option of simplifying your driving needs? Join us at the Mid America Electric Automobile Association’s Annual Earth Day EVent and Meet and Greet as we show off our street legal electric vehicles, share stories, experiences, and the future.

Date: Saturday, April 22, 2023
Time: 11:00 A.M. – 3:30 P.M
Location: Prairie Village Presbyterian Church
6641 Mission Road
Prairie Village, KS 66208

KC Climate Council’s Earth Week Celebration
2023-04-15 08:00 - 2023-04-23 17:00
Join the Kansas City Climate Council’s 2023 Earth Festival
The Climate Council of Greater Kansas City is holding multiple events to celebrate Earth Day. Nine days of fairs, workshops, volunteer opportunities and activities throughout the metro area – both in-person and online. Saturday, April 15th through April 23rd.
Come learn about the earth and celebrate the planet we call home!
All events are free and open to the public.
Click here for more info and to register!

Energy Benchmarking Training
2023-04-12 12:30 - 13:30
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?

Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on the below dates to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2021 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.

April 12th – 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

Register Today!

Meet Your Presenters

Mary English, Program Manager, Building Performance

Prior to joining MEC in 2021, Mary worked in the sustainable built environment industry conducting energy assessments, testing, consultation, and overall experience in the field of building performance in both the residential and commercial sectors.

Mary founded Small Step Energy Solutions LLC which became a leading home energy assessment provider, as well as a building consultant for sustainable new buildings and homes. During this time, Small Step worked with municipalities – including the Kansas City, MO codes department – to review and update building energy codes. She also worked closely with area developers to create sustainable developments and multi-family housing based on equity goals. Mary then moved into commercial-business sustainability, helping start-up businesses in passive house panel construction; energy benchmarking; and efficiency upgrades in commercial HVAC systems. She currently serves on the Programs Committee for the USGBC Central Plains Community; and the Equity Committee for Climate Action Kansas City.

Brittanie Giroux, Sr. Program Coordinator, Building Performance

Brittanie joined MEC as an AmeriCorps VISTA member in October of 2020. She came to MEC after completing a previous AmeriCorps service year in the City of Evanston, IL’s Office of Sustainability where she led climate education initiatives and was involved in energy and waste franchise agreement processes.

In October of 2021, Brittanie came on board full time as MEC’s Building Performance Associate. In this role, she manages the Healthy Housing Taskforce, co-manages the Energy and Water Benchmarking program, creates social content and newsletters, and conducts community outreach and events. Brittanie received her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Vanderbilt University.
