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Many of the most impactful jobs in the rapidly growing sustainability industry aren’t immediately visible, but they’re shaping the future of our planet.
Take Danielle Artmayer’s role at global technology leader Hitachi Energy. She’s North America’s Electro-Mechanical Engineering Manager for HVDC (high-voltage direct current). Her work is essential to transforming our power grids, and her leadership in supporting cross-functional, global teams is what ultimately keeps the lights on.
We spoke with Danielle’s to learn more about the critical role HVDC plays in the global energy transition, and how she leads diverse teams to meet both technical challenges and strategic goals.
Danielle’s insights shed light on what it takes to thrive in an industry that's vital to the future of our planet—and how women can excel within it.
Tell us about you. How did you start working at Hitachi Energy, and how do you help the company achieve its sustainability goals?
I began my journey as an intern in 2014 and have grown through a variety of roles since then.
Currently, as the Electro-Mechanical Engineering Manager for HVDC in North America, I support teams across both the U.S. and Canada. My role is a blend of technical oversight and people development. I’m responsible for resource planning, reviewing and approving engineering deliverables, while ensuring our teams are aligned and supported.
Explain the importance of HVDC—not just to your work at Hitachi Energy, but to the future of our planet.
HVDC is a critical part of the energy transition. It’s not just about moving electricity, it’s about enabling cleaner, more efficient power systems.
Our HVDC systems are essential to building a more resilient energy grid. From analyzing foundation loads to coordinating with installation teams, we translate complex concepts into tangible, high-performing electro-mechanical systems. Every calculation, drawing, and design review contributes to a greater mission: delivering a cleaner, more reliable energy future.
I believe HVDC has the potential to become the backbone of the grid, enabling systems to share energy reserves where they are needed most. HVDC efficiently transports large amounts of power over long distances and seamlessly integrates large-scale renewable resources, which is critical to a stable power grid and a greener future.
That’s a lofty mission to pursue. What skills or qualities do you think are important for leaders in such fast-changing and vital industries as yours?
Adaptability and communication are essential. Technology is evolving rapidly and so are expectations. As a leader, you need to be technically grounded but also open to new ideas. I’ve found that being approachable and fostering a culture of continuous learning helps teams stay agile and motivated.
Leadership is becoming more collaborative and people focused. There’s a strong emphasis on cross-functional teamwork and empowering individuals at all levels. I’ve seen a shift toward training and knowledge sharing, which is helping to build a more resilient and future-ready organization.
You already lead and work cross-functionally—not to mention globally as well. What’s it like to support the growth and success of your engineering teams while also being involved in big-picture planning?
It’s a balancing act but one I genuinely enjoy. Being involved in both the technical and strategic aspects allows me to bridge the gap between design, customer expectations, commercial objectives, and our business initiatives.
Tactically, I focus on clear communication, mentorship, and creating opportunities for ownership. When I led project teams with team members across the globe, I learned that clear communication and transparency are key. I make it a point to support technical reviews, one-on-ones, and I encourage cross-regional collaboration so that knowledge flows freely. It’s about building a culture where people feel supported and connected, no matter where they are.
What I enjoy most is seeing how our diverse teams come together across borders to solve complex challenges. It’s a dynamic environment that keeps me learning every day.
What would you tell women considering careers similar to yours?
If you're considering a career in engineering or technical leadership, my advice is:
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. There’s so much knowledge within your team, make sure you take advantage of it. Asking for help, clarity, advice, etc. not only accelerates your learning but also helps to build stronger connections.
- Be open to unexpected opportunities. I once took a role that I feared might set me back technically, but it turned out to be a turning point. It broadened my understanding of other disciplines and helped me see the bigger picture of how projects succeed. That experience ultimately made me a stronger engineer and a better leader.
- Take charge of your growth. There are so many resources available so find something that inspires you and build on it. Whether it’s learning a new language or mastering a technical skill, the opportunities are there if you seek them out. When your passions align with the company’s goals, it’s a win for everyone.
Finally, you belong in this field! Your perspective, curiosity, and drive are valuable. So take the opportunities that challenge and grow you, speak up, and keep building the skills that excite you.
