Pilar Montoya Named Executive Director at Geothermal Rising

CA, UNITED STATES, November 5, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Geothermal Rising, a national association dedicated to advancing geothermal energy for a resilient energy future, has appointed Pilar Montoya as its new Executive Director. Montoya brings extensive experience in STEM, fundraising, and research-informed public engagement to the organization.

Montoya's career has spanned national STEM workforce development, public engagement, and philanthropy. She previously served as the Executive Director of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), a national organization that aims to expand participation and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Under Montoya's leadership, SHPE reported more than 10,000 members and hundreds of chapters across the country. During her tenure, she managed a combined $6 million operating budget, which supported both the membership and foundation organizations. Montoya also played a key role in raising millions of dollars to support SHPE's work.

Her experience in the energy sector includes statewide efficiency campaigns promoting utility programs and cost-saving improvements for rural households. She has also been involved in national discussions about the energy workforce and co-authored research on public understanding of energy issues. Montoya's broader community engagement experience includes public-participation work in transportation and water engineering projects.

Montoya's primary focus at Geothermal Rising will be to listen to the organization's members and team, understand their priorities, and identify how Geothermal Rising can best support their success. She aims to strengthen the organization, build partnerships, and expand its impact.

Pilar Mont also brings organizational leadership, financial discipline, and experience building partnerships across technical and philanthropic communities. She will work with members and staff to strengthen organizational performance and professional development at Geothermal Rising.

Montoya's background includes community-foundation development, national and international clean energy and climate communications, and founding a communications firm she grew and sold after 14 years. At Geothermal Rising, she will leverage her expertise to support the organization's mission and accelerate geothermal energy for a sustainable future.