Clean energy and sustainability have always been the two driving factors in my decision to become an engineer, let alone pursue a Ph.D. degree in the thermal sciences. Due to this unequivocal desire to learn and explore different options for a green and sustainable future, I have adopted a bottom-up, multi-scale engineering approach toward enhancing energy conversion in solid-state semiconductor devices, and have used this throughout my Ph.D. to position myself as a thought leader in material research on thermoelectric energy conversion. As I transition from being a Ph.D. student, I am seeking a contingent of mentors and experts in areas of material chemistry, building science, applied physics, thermal sciences, energy equity, manufacturing, sustainability and environmental justice to coach me on practical steps that I could take to chart a long-term research and/or entrepreneurial career that focuses on grid-interactive smart buildings. I am as eager about the prospect of using these expertise to work on fundamental research, as I am about using them to deliver societal impact through high-impact translational research (e.g., new technologies) and ventures, working hand-in-hand with local municipalities and key stakeholders (both academic and non-academic) in the built environment to re-establish trust between historically marginalized communities and the industry.