“A Win-Win for All”—How I’m Cultivating a Workplace Where Women Can Thrive in Their Careers

It’s no secret that many women of various ages and backgrounds encounter considerable challenges when navigating the corporate workplace. That’s why Sunrun—the leading clean energy lifestyle company—is committed to developing and elevating women employees at every level. In fact, Megan Lessard, Sunrun’s Vice President of People Acquisition and Belonging, is actively working to foster an environment where all women feel supported, heard, and valued. She leads the Sunrun Women’s Initiative, a forward-thinking program designed to create a workplace where women are empowered to stay, thrive, and grow their careers.

“With a focus on career development, leadership opportunities, and flexible work options, the initiative tackles barriers women face in the workplace,” Megan says.

Here, she shares why she chose to get involved with the program, how the Women’s Initiative has made a positive impact on employees, and her proudest accomplishments as the lead.   

What is this initiative’s goal and what is your involvement in it?

The goal of the Sunrun Women’s Initiative is to position Sunrun as an employer of choice for women by cultivating a culture that inspires personal and professional growth with special emphasis on the experiences of frontline women. This initiative ensures women across all roles and departments feel supported in advancing their careers. As the initiative’s lead, I shape the strategy, assist in defining objectives, and guide its direction while collaborating closely with my colead.

What inspired Sunrun to create the Women’s Initiative?

The initiative was originally inspired by research from Catalyst, which highlighted barriers women face in the workplace, especially those related to career growth, representation, and support. Insights from employee engagement surveys and listening tours highlighted the opportunity to do more to foster a culture where women feel valued, empowered, and equipped to succeed. At Sunrun we’re highly focused on the experience of our frontline employees, who make up over 80% of Sunrun’s total population. We know that improving the experience for women elevates the experience for all frontline employees, so focusing on this initiative felt like a win-win for all.

What were some specific positive outcomes from this initiative?

This initiative launched in 2024, and while we haven’t reached our final goal yet, we’re already seeing positive momentum. Using engagement and listening tour data, we’ve shaped targeted initiatives that address the real needs of women at Sunrun. The feedback and excitement we’re seeing from employees are incredibly encouraging, and we’re committed to continuing this work to create meaningful and lasting change. Safety and well-being are a top priority, ensuring women in frontline roles have access to resources and safe environments. These efforts extend beyond the initiative to create a workplace that is better for everyone.

Can you describe a few ways that this initiative benefits employees?

1. By identifying and supporting high-potential women, we’re creating pathways for career advancement through mentorship, skill building, and targeted development opportunities. An example of this is a coaching pilot we will run this year for mid-level managers who show high potential.

2. Safety and well-being are central to our efforts. Sunrun prioritizes safe work environments and offers resources to support the physical and emotional health of our employees.

3. Our internal networking program, SheRun, provides women at Sunrun a platform to connect, share experiences, and grow professionally. SheRun began organically in our sales organization but we were excited to expand it across our company. Beginning in March, we will host quarterly SheRun events to bring women together to hear from executives and fellow women in the organization and provide opportunities for networking and collaboration.

4. While this initiative focuses on advancing women, the changes we’re implementing will make Sunrun a better workplace for all employees. An example of this is our plan to provide a discounted wearable safety device available to all employees in our “company store” as well as evaluate a self-defense course available for employees later in 2025.

What are you most proud of about this program?

I’m most proud of how this initiative has given women at Sunrun a voice. The listening tours we embarked on allowed us to hear directly from women about their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Turning that feedback into real action and seeing positive change has been incredibly rewarding. 

Do you plan to grow this program in the future?

Definitely. The Women’s Initiative is designed to evolve as we learn more about the needs of women at Sunrun. In addition to expanding leadership development opportunities, we’re enhancing our SheRun program and quarterly events to foster a sense of local community and connection.

Do you think other companies would benefit from similar programs?

Yes, absolutely. Creating a structured, intentional program to address the needs of women in the workplace benefits not only the employees but the company as a whole. Programs like these help increase retention, engagement, and representation while fostering innovation and collaboration. Every company can benefit from building a workplace where everyone feels empowered to succeed.

Is there anything else we haven’t asked about that you’d like to mention?

The success of this initiative is a team effort. Collaboration across departments, leadership buy-in, and the passion of employees engaged in this work have all been key. Programs like SheRun and our focus on safety, well-being, and professional growth demonstrate our commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change.

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