Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Announces New Director of Housing and Building Energy Programs

NEW CARROLLTON, MD – The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development today announced the promotion of Nicola Tran as the Director of Housing and Building Energy Programs. Tran previously served as Deputy Director of Housing and Building Energy Programs, where she oversaw the implementation of six statewide limited-income energy efficiency programs and led program development efforts and stakeholder engagement.

“Nicola’s experience and leadership will be critical as we continue our efforts towards a greener, more sustainable future for all Marylanders,” said Secretary Jake Day. “This is a key position in our Community Development Administration’s leadership team, and we’re excited to have Nicola at the helm. Congratulations!”

Filling this leadership role was critical, as the Department’s EmPOWER Maryland programs have seen significant growth and are expected to administer nearly $355 million for energy efficiency retrofits and upgrades between 2024 and 2026. Tran has over 15 years of experience in sustainability and energy efficiency solutions. She joined DHCD’s energy team in 2017 as a program manager where she streamlined internal procedures, implemented and managed a stakeholder input process, and worked on continuous program development. Tran was promoted to Deputy Director of Housing and Building Energy Programs in 2022. 

“At DHCD, our mission is to empower families to thrive in their homes. Our energy programs help create efficient, healthy living spaces and provide pathways to equity and well-being,” said Tran. “I’m eager and grateful to continue this important work in my new role as Director.”

Tran grew up in Germany, where she earned a master’s in Sociology. After immigrating to the United States in 2008, she worked for a residential energy solutions contractor, where she gained experience in the field by assessing over 500 homes across Maryland, working for the same programs she manages today. Tran enjoys hiking with her family, baking, and gardening in her free time.

To learn more about DHCD’s Housing and Building Energy Programs, click here.