Irish Women in Solar - Ciara King
Ciara King, Director of HR, Recruitment and Training, Ohk Energy
If Ireland’s solar targets are measured in gigawatts, they will ultimately be delivered by people.
Ciara King’s career has been shaped by one consistent focus: developing talent and creating opportunity.
Beginning her professional journey in childcare, Ciara built a strong foundation in communication and people-focused leadership. After eight years in America, she returned to Ireland, completed a degree in Leadership and Management, and later worked as a Research Officer on the SEUPB Peace Programme, contributing to cross-border reconciliation initiatives. She then spent eight years in construction before moving into renewable energy, bringing with her deep experience in workforce development and organisational growth.
Building the Workforce Behind Solar
Ciara was drawn to solar because it combines commercial growth with environmental purpose.
“Solar is a sector where commercial success and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.”
At Ohk Energy, she focuses on building structured pathways for people entering and progressing within the industry. For Ciara, success is measured less by milestones and more by people.
“Watching someone grow in confidence, step into leadership, and realise their potential is incredibly rewarding.”
That people-first approach was recognised when Ohk Energy received the Diversity and Inclusion Initiative Award at the Irish Renewable Energy Awards for its autism awareness and inclusivity programme, creating structured opportunities for neurodiverse young adults entering the workforce.
As the sector expands, workforce development is not a secondary function. It is central to delivery.
Women in Solar
Working in construction and renewable energy has meant navigating industries where female representation remains limited. Ciara’s approach has been grounded in preparation, consistency and backing her own expertise.
She believes representation matters not just symbolically, but practically. Diverse teams make better decisions, build stronger cultures and deliver more sustainable outcomes.
“Representation is important because people need to see that there is space for them in this industry.”
Her advice to women considering renewable energy is direct.
“Go for it. You don’t need to have started in energy to thrive in it.”
Curiosity, adaptability and a willingness to learn are just as valuable as sector experience. The industry is growing rapidly and needs a wide range of skills.
Looking Ahead
Ciara sees major opportunity in the continued growth of rooftop solar and battery integration, particularly as more homes and businesses become active participants in energy generation.
Her focus remains clear: building diverse, skilled teams that can sustain the pace of Ireland’s renewable transition.
Solar capacity will continue to grow.
So must the workforce behind it.
Ciara’s journey is a reminder that the energy transition is not only technical. It is organisational, cultural and human.