Celebrating ComEd’s Engineering Heroes Powering a Cleaner Tomorrow
March 12, 2024
As we culminate Engineering Week— a week of celebration dedicated to ensuring a diverse future engineering workforce by increasing understanding and interest in engineering technologies careers— and in the heart of Women’s History Month, it’s essential to highlight the remarkable achievements of women in engineering here at ComEd.
ComEd Paving the Way for Women Engineers
One such trailblazer is Sainab Taiwo Ninalowo, a Senior Manager in Smart Grid and Innovation at ComEd.
Growing up in Nigeria, Taiwo saw firsthand the challenges of accessing reliable power, which ignited her passion for engineering and energy solutions.
“Back home, I remember growing up in a place where we pretty much had no electricity—one day we had power and maybe the next day we didn’t,” Taiwo recalls. “That’s what inspired me to pursue a career where I could help provide steady power to communities.”
Taiwo’s journey into engineering began as an intern at ComEd in 2011. Initially she did not know what she wanted to focus on in her career, until she called her dad, and he asked why not engineering? Taiwo found her calling in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) subjects and graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering from Bradley University. Returning to ComEd as a full-time engineer, Taiwo was eager to contribute to the company’s mission of innovation and customer service.
In her role at ComEd’s Smart Grid and Technology group, Taiwo leads a talented team that power through the complexities and barriers of integrating first of a kind technology on the electric grid, to modernize the grid and increase the grid’s flexibility and resiliency. One such effort is the Bronzeville Community Microgrid and the Community of the Future in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood, which continue to shape how we think about an equitable energy transition.
Outside of work, Taiwo is passionate about mentoring and promoting diversity in engineering. Through volunteering and serving on boards, she works to inspire the next generation of engineers and leaders.
“The power of diversity cannot be underestimated. We must continue to create inclusive spaces that inspire wonder and a sense of care in people, so they feel motivated to bring passion and their best selves to work.” Taiwo says. “By including everyone’s voices, we can do amazing things.”
Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ComEd values the unique perspectives and contributions of every individual. Through initiatives like Power Up Academy, launched in 2023, ComEd is prioritizing to build a strong and diverse pipeline for future engineers, while also creating more space for female engineers.
As Taiwo continues her engineering journey and through her leadership, she’s shaping the future of energy and paving the way for a more diverse representation across STEM. “It is really important to me as a leader to remind my employees that they can bring their authentic selves to work because, when they do, they’re capable of contributing without any barriers, and are able to share their opinions without having to change who they are,” added Taiwo.
ComEd’s engineers are paramount to ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy future. Through their work they promote strong grid reliability, these professionals are laying the foundation for a cleaner and more resilient tomorrow.
