Staff Spotlight: Olivia Barrows

Staff Spotlight: Olivia Barrows

July 8, 2026 Staff Spotlight

Community Energy Project is proud to provide a variety of direct, In-Homes services and educational workshops, and participate in important advocacy work. Behind all of these vital efforts is a team of vibrant, multifaceted, and hardworking individuals. The CEP Staff Spotlight is a series dedicated to the people who make everything we do possible. Today’s spotlight shines on CEP’s Community Engagement and Advocacy Fellow, Olivia Barrows.

1. Describe your role at CEP and what makes you passionate about your position. 

I split my time between two teams: Communications and Development and Advocacy. I represent CEP in the community by attending resource fairs and developing partnerships with other organizations. I also get to do really fun stuff like present to community groups, interview our clients, and organize volunteer opportunities. On the advocacy side, I help translate policy and regulatory decisions into more accessible language. I love connecting the dots and helping people find meaningful opportunities and resources.

2. What is your work background and one unique skill you bring to CEP?

I came to CEP from a chamber of commerce where I worked with businesses and nonprofits to develop strategies for sustainable and community-oriented business practices. I also have a Master’s degree in international studies with a focus on public diplomacy, which has given me a strong foundation for communicating complex topics in an accessible and engaging way. I’ve always loved learning, and that curiosity motivates my work at CEP – whether learning about a client’s experience or understanding a utility rate case.

3. Describe one accomplishment you’ve made at CEP or a goal you have for the future in this role.

I’m proud of my role in organizing the premiere of CEP’s documentary, Grassroots to the Grid, and our Spring Resource Fair! It was so cool to see a dozen of our partners and over one hundred community members come together to talk about climate action.

4. What is the best advice you have ever received?

Take yourself seriously. People often say the opposite, but I appreciate the reminder to trust my own ideas and abilities. It can be easy as a young woman to talk yourself out of doing something, but you have to give yourself enough credit to know that you can figure it out.