PEA Clean Energy Intern, Caila Cater-Edwards, chatting with Annette Hayes, a cornerstone of the PEA community and a tireless advocate for a more sustainable Triad. From her work with Grindvine Consulting to local food policy, Annette shares how a commitment to equitable access drives her mission for lasting community impact. Grindvine Consulting is also a member of PEA's Green Business Network.
CCE: Hi there, Annette! Because you are someone who has been such a cornerstone of PEA’s story, I am so excited to finally sit down and chat with you.
I truly admire seeing how involved you are in the sustainable world for the Triad and I know you have many things on your plate—from leading sustainable project management at Grindvine, to advocating for local food systems on the Urban Food Policy Council, and your impactful work with Goler Community Development Corporation.
These are seemingly very different sectors going from grassroots policy to global energy infrastructure. What is the common thread or core mission that connects all these projects for you, and how do you feel they collectively move the needle on sustainability?
AH: Thank you, Caila, that truly means a lot! While the work spans different sectors, the common thread is a commitment to equitable access and community centered impact, guided by the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
At Grind Vine Consulting, LLC, the Sustainability Development Goals are not abstract global targets, they are at the core of how we approach our daily lives and build communities. Whether through sustainable project management, apprenticeships and workforce development, or local food systems advocacy, our focus is on building systems that create economic opportunity and expanding access to resources where it matters most.
By translating the Sustainability Development Goals into practical, local action, this work helps to close gaps between policy and practice, innovation and access. When sustainability is rooted in people and aligned with global goals, it becomes tangible, inclusive and lasting.
CCE: That’s a beautiful message, and I relate deeply to your focus on making systems work for all people. Looking out for one another and ensuring equitable access is more vital than ever. It’s comforting to hear, and I’m certain many of our readers feel the same.
On that note, could you share any upcoming projects, events, news that you may be involved in that you believe the audience should know about?
AH: Yes, Caila, I will be happy to! Because we believe deeply in the Sustainable Development Goals, we will offer a workshop every quarter on sustainability fundamentals. The dates will be available at the end of the month and can find them on our website: www.grindvine.com.
We will have our first Apprenticeship cohort in April and will start to take applications in February. These would be for Sustainability Specialists and Energy Specialists. Note that Grind Vine Consulting, LLC has the first solar focused apprenticeship in the Piedmont Triad and the first North Carolina Sustainability focused apprenticeship!
Also, Electrify the Triad launches on February 28th, and Energy Saver NC is open and accepting applications from income qualified North Carolinians.
CCE: Amazing! It is wonderful that we are jumping into the New Year on a high note, with so many sustainable projects. I am particularly energized about the Electrify the Triad campaign: having supported the project here at PEA, it is incredibly rewarding to see its momentum.
Speaking of PEA, you have consistently been one of our standout advocates. In fact, I believe the first time I met you was at one of the City Council public hearing meetings where we were trying to push for more climate conscious goals. Beyond that, I have seen you at countless other events. Given your deep involvement, I’d love to tap into your experience: For those who are ready to dive in but aren’t sure where to start, what’s your best advice for getting involved and making an impact on the causes they care about?"
My advice is simple: start by showing up. Attend just one meeting or event connected to something you care about. That first step matters. Being in a room with like-minded people who share your values is empowering. It reminds you that your voice belongs in the conversation.
Listen, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to speak up. There’s a reason certain issues resonate with you, and community helps turn that passion into impact. Real change happens when people move together, not alone.
Organizations like PEA are already leading the way and creating space for community voices. If you’re looking for a place to start, step into those spaces, raise your hand, and get involved. Meaningful work is happening and I am always ready to be a part of it. There’s room for you at the table, come and join us!