Virginia Klausmeier, CEO and Founder of Sylvatex, is on a mission to revolutionize high-tech manufacturing and clean energy. With a background in chemistry and engineering, she’s driving sustainable solutions for battery materials while advocating for more women in leadership roles in STEM. In this episode, Virginia shares her journey from being underestimated to sitting at the table with the world’s top decision-makers, navigating the challenges of scaling a climate tech company, and why she believes the future of innovation depends on tapping into both strategy and intuition.
Show Notes:
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- How Virginia transitioned from a career in medical devices to launching a venture-backed climate tech company.
- The story behind Sylvatex and how its technology is reshaping battery manufacturing for electric vehicles and energy storage.
- The underestimated power of intuition in science and business leadership.
- The challenges of being a female CEO in a male-dominated industry—and how Virginia turns underestimation into an advantage.
- Why increasing women in STEM leadership is crucial for innovation and economic growth.
- The hidden costs of energy consumption, AI-driven demand, and what we can do to curb climate change.
Key Takeaways:
- Clean energy isn’t just about replacing fossil fuels—it’s about rethinking how we manufacture and distribute power.
- The energy transition is happening now, and those who don’t adapt will be left behind.
- Leadership isn’t about being the expert in everything—it’s about surrounding yourself with the best people and empowering them.
- Women in STEM need more mentors and role models who have successfully navigated the space and broken through barriers.
- The way we shop, travel, and consume energy today will define the world we live in tomorrow.
Resources & Links:
- Learn more about Sylvatex, Inc.: sylvatex.com
- Connect with Virginia Klausmeier on LinkedIn
- Follow Sylvatex on Twitter/X
- Watch Virginia’s recent talks on clean energy and sustainability:
Final Thought:
Virginia leaves us with a challenge: If you want to be part of the solution, start today. Choose transportation that runs on renewable energy. Support local and sustainable products. Be intentional with your choices—because every action adds up.
Listen Now: Available on all major podcast platforms. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
- Facebook: Empowered Women Leaders
- Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
- LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
- Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
- Athena: athenaac.com
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