Was hat Sie dazu motiviert, in diesen Sektor einzusteigen?
I currently work as an advisor for energy efficiency, environmental protection and spatial planning in the city administration of the City of Križevci, where I lead and participate in projects related to energy transition, renewable energy sources and climate change mitigation. As part of my work, I prepare and implement projects financed from national and EU funds, participate in the development of local sustainable development policies and cooperate with domestic and international partners on initiatives that contribute to more sustainable and resilient local communities. I have been actively working in the field of green technologies and sustainable development for six years. Before my current position, I worked at the Green Energy Cooperative (ZEZ) and the KLIK (Križevci Laboratorij Inovacija za Klimu) energy cooperative on projects related to energy transition, education of citizens about renewable energy sources and the development of sustainable local communities.
My professional journey began during my studies at the Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Zagreb, where I completed my graduate study in Environmental Geology. I developed a special love for the environment and its protection in my earliest childhood, because I grew up in nature my whole life and became aware very early on how important it is to protect the only home we have – our Earth. I am particularly motivated by the opportunity to contribute through my work to concrete solutions in the field of energy and projects that have a direct positive impact on the local community, the quality of life of citizens and environmental protection. In order to gain additional knowledge that I lacked in my work, I enrolled in the university’s specialist study program in Energy Sector Economics – MBA, which I am currently completing.
Describe the main obstacles in a role model’s career.
Introductory questions:
One of the biggest challenges in my career was working on projects that involve changes in the way of thinking and acting, both in institutions and among citizens. In the field of energy transition and environmental protection, it is often necessary to invest a lot of time in informing, educating and building trust in order to accept new ideas and solutions. But when the citizens accept new ideas and solutions, then we know that all our efforts were worth it and that motivates us to try even harder.
The complexity of projects financed from national and EU funds, which require coordination of various stakeholders, good organization, and navigating administrative and technical requirements, also presents a professional challenge. Such experiences have taught me patience, perseverance, and the importance of teamwork.
Over time, I realized that precisely these challenges significantly contributed to my professional development because they encouraged me to develop organizational, communication and project skills and to assume responsibility for leading projects and initiatives with more certainty.
Explain how the challenges were overcome.
Introductory questions:
I have overcome challenges primarily through continuous learning, openness to collaboration, and a willingness to adapt. In working on projects involving various stakeholders, my communication and organizational skills, as well as my ability to connect people and ideas around a common goal, have been particularly helpful.
Collaboration with colleagues, experts and partners from various organizations, such as ZEZ and KLIK, also played a major role, through which I had the opportunity to learn from different experiences and approaches. I was also helped by various education and participation in conferences, where I gained new knowledge and contacts in the field of energy at the national and European level. Over time, I developed greater confidence in project management and decision-making, and today I see challenges as an opportunity for further professional and personal development.
Highlight key achievements and contributions.
Introductory questions:
In my work, I am particularly proud of the projects that contribute to the energy transition and sustainable development of the city of Križevci. During my work in the city administration, I participated in the preparation and implementation of energy renovation projects for public buildings, encouraging the use of renewable energy sources, and developing measures to mitigate climate change and reduce energy poverty.
I am particularly proud of having the opportunity to be part of the energy transition of my city that has been taking place in recent years and of the fact that from just a few solar power plants in 2020 on family homes, we have grown to over 300 solar power plants on family homes by the end of 2025, almost 40 solar power plants on various business entities, and all together a connected power of 4.3 MW (which is a large number for the small city of Križevci). An important part of my work also relates to connecting different stakeholders – local government, civil society organizations, experts and citizens – in order to jointly develop sustainable solutions.
During my work at ZEZ and KLIK, I participated in projects that brought renewable energy sources closer to citizens and encouraged their more active participation in the energy transition. I believe that one of the most important contributions of my work is creating the foundation for the long-term sustainability of the local community through projects, education, and the development of policies that encourage responsible energy use and environmental protection.
Provide guidance to aspiring professionals.
Introductory questions:
I would advise anyone considering a career in green technologies to be curious, open to learning, and prepared for an interdisciplinary approach. This sector is rapidly evolving and connects different fields – from science and technology to economics, public policy, and working with local communities – so it is important to constantly upgrade your knowledge and develop different skills.
It is also important to seek opportunities for practical experience through projects, volunteering or collaboration with organizations involved in sustainable development, such as energy communities or civil society organizations. It is such experiences that often provide the best understanding of the real challenges and opportunities in the sector.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that changes in the field of sustainability require patience, collaboration, and a long-term perspective. Although results sometimes come more slowly than we would like, every project, new idea, or partnership can be an important step towards a more sustainable future.
Every idea counts, no matter how small it seems, and be brave in implementing your ideas!