Keely Hughes is a business development leader with over a decade of experience in clean energy workforce development. As Director of Market Development and Strategic Partnerships at The JPI Group, she connects businesses, workforce agencies, and educational institutions to create inclusive career pathways and support small business participation in energy efficiency markets. She leverages her expertise in market strategy and cross-sector collaboration to drive sustainable economic growth.

Keely is committed to education, workforce development, and STEM engagement. She serves on the boards of the Sankofa School of Success and The STEM Connection, advocating for underrepresented communities in STEM. A recognized leader, Keely will be honored by the Illinois Minority Business Development Agency Center in 2025 for her contributions to entrepreneurship and economic equity. She has also served as President of the American Association of Blacks in Energy’s Indiana Chapter and has been a panelist at the EUCI Women in Energy conference.