Maya Willard-Stepan

Maya completed her BSc in environmental science and atmospheric physics at McGill University in 2023 and her MSc in Geography at University of Victoria in 2023.

Maya’s research is largely interdisciplinary, taking a systems approach to understanding the socio-ecological and socio-technical aspects of the energy transition. With the opinion that there is no one-size-fits-all method to tackling the many challenges facing the transition to renewable energy, Maya has worked with a range of methods, from energy models to community-based participatory research. Her thesis focused on assessing the trade-offs between ecosystem services at existing renewable energy sites globally. Maya’s passion for the environment overflows into her personal life as well; she is frequently found enjoying time at the beach or hiking in the forest.