What Makes Sustainability Leaders Successful? Identifying the Traits and Skills of these Managers

Author: Eric Puig

Field of Study: Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Math

Faculty Mentors: Kristina Marty

Easel: 57

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: Coinciding with growing concern about climate change, demand for sustainability professionals in local government has increased significantly. However, little is known about the traits and skills needed to succeed in this emerging field. This ongoing research project analyzes 59 semi-structured interviews with sustainability managers across U.S. local governments to identify key leadership competencies. An initial coding framework was developed using Claude, a research AI software, to detect common themes, and was refined by the research team. Each interview is coded blindly by two researchers to ensure consistency and limit bias. With 32 interviews coded so far, early findings highlight the importance of communication, strategic thinking, and relationship-building skills. Final results will include demographic analysis to examine how skills and traits may vary across different contexts.