“If it wasn’t for GCF I would not have landed the job opportunity I did…I knew how important it was for me to build my knowledge on different topics, it became relevant information to obtain going forward in my career path and I have applied the skills I learned till this day.”
Noshka Gonzalez (she/her)
Graduated: 2022, Cohort 22
From: Taft Houses, Manhattan
Current Position: Energy Analyst, ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.
Building a more prosperous and resilient world for all. Guided by our purpose and values. Steadfast in our commitment to corporate citizenship and diversity and opportunity. With one important thing in common: a passion for making a positive impact on the world.
Tell us about your current role and daily responsibilities.
“ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider. My team has a specific contract with the second largest energy company, Avangrid, in partnering with companies such as Home Depot, Lowes, and thrift stores to provide customers with energy star and/or energy-approved products for their homes. My day-to-day is assuring our energy savings are being calculated correctly and making sure that our KWH (Kilowatt-hour), KW (Kilowatt) and MMBTU (Million British Thermal Units) are being tracked along with product prices to ensure the savings for energy and the savings for the consumers is easily managed.”
Describe your career pathway. How has your GCF experience helped you?
“After serving at GCF I knew that my career path would require more education so I obtained my Masters in Environmental Science and Sustainability. During that time I was connected to work as a third party contractor for Con Edison at Willdan Energy Solutions. After my time working with Willdan I wanted to get involved with more nonprofit work to build my professional experience. I took a job opportunity for BOC also known as Business Outreach Center as a data analyst that helped me transition my knowledge of energy and data. Because of this, I landed the job I wanted at the company I love.. If it wasn’t for GCF I would not have landed the job opportunity I did, along with meeting other program managers to land the role I have today.”
What advice do you have for current Corps Members and other Alumni?
“Make sure you stay consistent with your service – GCF provides amazing opportunities to help in your personal and professional development.”
Achievements at GCF:
“My achievements at GCF would have to be obtaining my G-Pro certification and OSHA certification. I knew how important it was for me to build my knowledge on different topics, it became relevant information to obtain going forward in my career path and I have applied the skills I learned till this day.”
Noshka was also recipient of Cohort 22’s Sustainability Award, the Lawrence Harris Scholarship, and Speaker of the Cohort!
What’s your favorite GCF memory?
“My favorite GCF memory would be when all the teams would come together and work on the farm, it was always nice to see everyone engaging and feeling enthusiastic to serve because they knew they had a full team to support them.”
GRADUATION TESTIMONY:
“Green City Force was an opportunity to elevate myself, serve my community, and help fight for food and social justice. I decided to become a Corps Member because I wanted to elevate my personal and professional development. I knew Green City Force would help me get that foot in the door to start my career and allow me to have opportunities for self-growth and networking. Before Green City Force, I was finishing school and working in the medical field. The most important thing I learned in my time with Green City Force was patience. I’ve dealt with a lot of challenges in the program that became barriers but I stayed focused on accomplishing my goals. I want to take a moment to thank those who saw my potential and leadership and gave me the tools to complete my service term to end strong (Jawann, Aram and Steve).”
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