Jackie “JP” Phillips is a force to be reckoned with—a trailblazer in the renewable energy industry and a media powerhouse as an executive at UnheardTV. As one of the few Black women investing in wind turbines across the country, JP is carving out a space for herself in a field traditionally dominated by men, all while redefining leadership and community impact.
A Journey into Renewable Energy
JP’s journey into the renewable energy sector began serendipitously in late 2018 when she learned about a stock opportunity and was added to a mailing list. Through newsletters and conferences, she discovered the potential of wind turbines and decided to take the leap into an industry she now passionately champions. “I’m creative, and I apply that to every industry I enter,” she explains.
Despite not having been in the industry for even a year, JP has faced challenges head-on, from navigating a steep learning curve to combating biases as a Black woman leader. Her response? Preparation and project-based planning. “I run everything like a project, with clear goals, consistent communication, and accountability,” she says, emphasizing the importance of mitigating risks and investing in her team’s growth.
Caregiving and Community Leadership
JP’s commitment to caregiving—she looks after her father, whom she affectionately calls “The Chief”—has profoundly shaped her perspective. Born in 1930, her father’s resilience and no-excuses mindset inspire JP’s approach to both life and work. “Being his caretaker reminds me daily of the importance of serving others,” she says.
This ethos extends to her professional endeavors, where she ensures that all her teams participate in monthly community give-back initiatives. “The community you create starts with action,” she affirms, carrying forward the legacy instilled in her by her parents.
Mentoring the Next Generation
Beyond her work in renewable energy, JP is a co-founder of The Leadership Lab, a program designed to cultivate leadership skills in youth with a focus on STEM careers. Alongside collaborators Lloyd Bruce and Carl Green, JP is committed to empowering young people to stand tall, embrace their gifts, and recognize their potential to make a positive impact. “We can’t expect performance in any career if we don’t cultivate the leader in our youth,” she notes.
Advocating for Inclusivity in Renewable Energy
JP sees the renewable energy sector as fertile ground for greater diversity and representation, particularly for Black women. However, she stresses the need for meaningful action beyond surface-level support. “We need more than social media posts and hype sessions,” she says, calling for sustained efforts in awareness-building, education, and professional development.
Her vision includes a long-term impact that goes beyond personal success. “I pray that my work sparks others to research, learn, and invest,” she says. “The opportunities are plentiful, and my greatest impact is to shine the light for others to see.”
Balancing Media and Energy
As a media executive, JP uses her creativity to enhance her work in renewable energy. Time management, through tools like time-blocking and a daily power list, helps her balance her roles effectively. “The creativity of media allows me to deliver services in renewable energy,” she explains, adding that visuals and audio are powerful tools for education and outreach.
Inspiring Others
Jackie “JP” Phillips embodies a unique blend of resilience, creativity, and community-focused leadership. From caregiving to renewable energy and media, her multifaceted journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven work. She hopes to inspire others to embrace boldness and innovation in every field they pursue, proving that true leadership starts with serving others and lifting them along the way.
Follow Us On Social Media!
