Jackie Peer

March PES Profile: International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is observed annually on 8 March, honoring the many achievements of women and recognizing women’s rights. IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES) would like to spotlight Jackie Peer, an IEEE PES Senior member and Director of Industry Outreach at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL). She found her passion in the electric power industry and turned it into a career of purpose, using her voice and attributes to advocate for inclusion, raise industry awareness, and help drive meaningful change along the way.

Jackie’s interest in engineering began in high school when she was exposed to the work of electricians (specifically with industrial plants) and engineers who oversaw their projects. During this time, she took the opportunity to learn about the work of electrical engineers through a program designed to prepare students for college. Through assignments she was given, Jackie became intrigued by the work that was being done. That experience ultimately shaped her college journey, leading her to pursue a career in electrical engineering.

She shared, “Through that process, I definitely liked the idea of being an electrical engineer. It was very tangible to me, and I understood how important electricity was.”

When Jackie was preparing for her admission to her college, Washington State University, a counselor at the university recognized her attributes and drive and encouraged her to apply to be part of the electrical engineering program that was offered, but with a focus on power systems. Feeling like there was nothing to lose by throwing herself out there, Jackie did just that. Jackie obtained her bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering with a power systems emphasis.

Looking back at her college journey, Jackie expressed gratitude for the encouragement of a counselor and professor who helped guide her through school and prepared her for her initial rounds of job interviews, Dr. Clifford Mosher. He pushed her to power through and to never give up on her dreams and aspirations. Jackie faced a few adversities and hardships, being out on her own and being a non-traditional student, and Dr. Mosher was a constant reminder to continue climbing a steep mountain, but definitely worth it at the top to see the view. He helped open the door to what would become a 21-year career at SEL.

Continuing to give credit where it’s due, Jackie also expressed thanks to her initial hiring manager at SEL, Joseph Mooney, who saw her potential for greatness and hired her straight after college. He was always a good manager, but an even better mentor and a person who encouraged her along the way. Not a day goes by that she doesn’t stop and reflect on the opportunities that were given to her, thanks to the impactful efforts of these two inspirational engineers in her journey. Although Jackie spent a few years outside of SEL, following her heart, she came back, knowing this was where she needed to be.

Jackie said, “I have always thought of SEL as my home. I really wanted to come back home and have this be the place where I finish off my career and try to make a difference.”

Jackie was always familiar with the IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES), as there was a local chapter at her university. On occasion, she would attend monthly evening meetings; however, her true exposure to the organization came through her time spent at SEL, much earlier in her career, right after graduation. Many of her peers were very focused on power and energy, particularly electric power. They encouraged Jackie to join PES when she renewed her IEEE membership. Jackie was intrigued by the amount of technical resources that could be made available to her and networking opportunities via events.

In that moment, Jackie thought, “I am very hungry to learn and grow. If there’s another resource in addition to what my company provided, I’ll join.”

To Jackie, PES is a community and an important part of her career. She has built relationships with her peers and made friends through IEEE and PES. It was almost second nature to her to reach out to IEEE PES whenever she needed guidance, had a question, or wanted to bounce ideas off someone. Jackie appreciates the opportunity to get involved in collaborative efforts and connect with like-minded peers.

“IEEE PES connects me with people who share my purpose—advancing safe, reliable electric power—and has given me a community of colleagues, mentors, and friends who show up for one another. What I value most is being part of a group of genuine, service‑minded leaders committed to helping others grow and driving meaningful change in our industry.”

IEEE PES works closely with SEL. There has been a continuous source of collaboration for both PES and SEL through flagship event sponsorship, such as the 2026 IEEE PES T&D Expo via Stage Presentations and the 2025 Corporate Engagement Partnership. Jackie expressed that it comes naturally to her to make efforts to support a greater cause and be part of the broader conversation about technical programs and the future of power and energy.

Jackie goes on to share that through IEEE PES, she can connect with other female engineers in the industry. Looking back at the earlier years, she was one of two female engineers at her workspace, and those relationships gave her the strength to keep pushing forward and to become a voice and mentor for other women who strive to make a difference within the industry and for people who are underserved or less fortunate.

Jackie reflects on a moment that holds a special place in her heart. At an IEEE PES General Meeting panel session on workforce development, she was cited as a prime example of someone who advocates for women and supports them. To Jackie, this was incredibly meaningful because it meant her efforts were impactful and heard even when she’s not in the room.

Looking ahead, Jackie would like to continue offering mentorship to those in need of guidance on their career paths, focusing on retaining younger and mid-level women to establish and maintain a strong foundation for career longevity. She wants to continue developing those relationships and help people have the courage to continue climbing that steep mountain, so they can see what’s waiting for them at the top.

“In the future, I hope to continue mentoring and advocating for women in our industry, helping to create pathways that are even more supported and accessible for those who follow. I want to help shape an inclusive, innovative energy sector and be remembered as someone who showed up for others and helped clear the path for the next generation.”

Jackie also adds as a piece of advice to those entering the industry or working to advance their careers, “Be yourself. Be curious. Work super hard to learn the fundamentals and master those as they will take you a long way throughout your career and even into retirement.”

PES is part of Jackie’s career at this point. She can’t imagine not having the relationships and experiences through PES if it weren’t for the sense of community within the society.