Why the climate crisis is a career opportunity of a lifetime

This spring in the United States, college graduates are throwing their caps in the air and stepping into a world that feels more uncertain than ever. For those earning degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), the question looms: How can I apply what I’ve learned to earn a living and make a difference?

If your passion lies in solving real problems – especially the climate crisis – there has never been a more important or promising time to get in the game.

We’ve all seen the headlines. Melting ice caps, rising temperatures, wildfires, droughts – the warnings are urgent and the stakes are high. But as someone who has spent more than two decades investing in climate solutions, I can tell you: Despair doesn’t drive innovation. Action does.

And the truth is, innovation – from hard, tech solutions to bold new ways of thinking grounded in engineering and science – is already changing the trajectory of our planet’s future.

To date, the dominant narrative surrounding climate change has been one of fear. And while fear has its place – it wakes us up – it rarely moves us forward. Pessimism can paralyze people, especially young professionals just starting out. It convinces them that the problems are too big, that no solutions are good enough and that nothing they do can overcome the issues.

That’s simply not true.

During my career, I’ve had the privilege of helping launch and invest in more than 40 companies focused on clean energy, carbon capture, sustainable water technologies and resource efficiency. These aren’t theoretical solutions; they’re real businesses delivering real results.

One company is removing carbon directly from the atmosphere. Another is transforming agricultural and wastewater systems through nanobubble technology. Others are building carbon-capture systems for cargo ships or converting garbage into renewable fuels.

This work isn’t happening in some far-off future; it’s happening now. And it’s being driven by scientists, engineers, software developers and inventors, many of them not far removed from their own graduations.

The climate crisis is a career opportunity

Let’s be clear: Solving climate change is the defining issue of our time. And it’s also the single greatest economic opportunity of the 21st century. Think of it as the Second Industrial Revolution – one that will reshape our energy systems, supply chains, transportation networks, and even how we grow our food and manage our water.

So if you’re a STEM major – good for you. The world needs more like you. You’re entering the workforce with exactly the kind of training the climate economy demands.

We need the next generation of scientists, coders, chemists, mechanical engineers and materials specialists to bring their skills to the table. We need professionals who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty – figuratively and literally – to test, build, scale and refine the solutions that will help stabilize the climate.

In fact, the International Labour Organization predicts that global transition to a green economy will create up to 24 million new jobs by 2030, many of which require the technical skills you’re bringing to the table. And you’re arriving at exactly the right time.

According to a report from the IEA, global energy investment exceeded US$3 trillion for the first time in 2024, with US$2 trillion going to clean energy technologies and infrastructure. The report further states that investment in clean energy has accelerated since 2020, and spending on renewable power, grids and storage is now higher than total spending on oil, gas and coal.

Despite what the newspaper headlines might say, climate is drawing in more and more investment capital every day.

Action creates hope – and we need both

If we want people to believe the climate crisis is solvable, we need to show them that progress is possible. That’s why I believe in what I call "hope through action". The more you engage, the more you realize what can be done, and that optimism becomes fuel.

We also need to shift away from viewing traditional industries as enemies. For example, in our work scaling direct air capture and other hard climate technologies, we’ve collaborated with energy companies who bring critical infrastructure expertise and capital to the table.

This isn’t about ideology. It’s about pragmatism. It’s about partnerships. Climate progress will take everyone – startups and incumbents, scientists and policymakers, engineers and financiers – pulling in the same direction.

That’s why I encourage emerging professionals not to wait on perfect solutions or ideal conditions. Get involved now. Join a startup, work in research, consult for companies adapting to new regulations or help scale up proven tech. Don’t underestimate your role – every project, every iteration, every contribution matters.

Long-term thinking in a short-term world

Real climate solutions don’t come with instant gratification. They demand patience, persistence and a mindset that looks years and decades ahead. In a culture hooked on quick wins and viral moments, that kind of thinking isn’t always easy. But meaningful progress takes time, and it’s worth every step.

That’s why we invest in companies with a long-term vision. We back technologies that can fundamentally reshape how the world manages energy, water, carbon and materials. This kind of change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the kind of work that builds legacies.

And for new grads asking where their skills can make the biggest impact, I can think of no better legacy than helping tackle the greatest challenge of our time.

A final word to the class of 2025

If you’re graduating with a STEM degree this season, know this: Your skills are needed more than ever. You have the power to accelerate solutions, shift paradigms and inspire others. Don’t let pessimism define your path. Let purpose and optimism drive you forward.

Climate change is not beyond our ability to solve. But it will take bold thinking, engineering discipline and long-term commitment. It will take people like you – smart, curious and ready to act.

Opinions expressed by The CEO Magazine contributors are their own.