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Women in Maryland Energy – Combining Energy with Emergency Management & Government Affairs

Caitlin Madera (aka Cait) manages the Maryland Energy Administration’s Commercial, Industrial and Agricultural program, Maryland Department of Environment’s Energy Water Infrastructure Program grant, and the Next Generation Energy Efficiency Gains effort. Cait has been with the Maryland Energy Administration for almost five years, beginning as a program intern to then become a grants administrator before moving up to be a program manager.

Maryland Smart Energy Communities (MSEC) was the first energy program Cait managed.

Cait is also part of the Maryland Energy Administration team that supports the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) during storms and emergencies. She has traveled to Florida twice to help with hurricane relief efforts and managing the fuel reserves. She has been recognized for her contribution to Maryland’s energy and emergency sectors in Jmore magazine. Cait has a Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Science and Policy with minors in Sustainability and Environmental Economics from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Director Tung (left) presents Caitlin Madera with a first quarter of 2019 award.

In 2019, Cait successfully led the team, competitively selected by NGA, to participate in the North American Electric Reliability Corporation Grid Security Exercise (GridEx) to identify opportunities for improved response during a simulated energy security event.

“Being an active participant in this year’s GridExV with NGA’s assistance in the coming months to unpack our lessons learned is a huge opportunity for the state,” explained Cait.  “Working together with fellow state agencies and partners to simulate responses, test procedures, and strengthen relationships on a “blue sky day” is what lays the groundwork for successful mitigation, response, and restoration needed in an emergency event.”

Cait began working with the state energy policy team in Annapolis for the 2020 Maryland legislative session. Cait balances her multiple roles masterfully. She is an enthusiastic and dedicated team member as well as a mentor to new staff, Cait received the 2019 first quarter Director’s Award.