Francheska Wilson, an esteemed engineer at Con Edison, has been honored as an Achiever in Industry by the Harlem YMCA for her remarkable contributions to the company’s mission of ensuring safe, reliable service while spearheading the transition to clean energy.
With a career spanning 23 years at Con Edison, Wilson’s expertise has left an indelible mark on every facet of the company’s expansive electric delivery system. Her dedication and innovation have earned her recognition from the YMCA’s bai program, which celebrates leaders in business for their professional achievements and community engagement, as well as their ethical conduct.
“It’s truly rewarding to receive this honor from the Harlem YMCA, an organization deeply rooted in the community, with a rich history of empowering young people to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams” said Wilson, who joined Con Edison in June 2001. “I share this award with my colleagues here at Con Edison who are dedicated to supplying reliable service for our customers and also share a passion for mentoring and community service.”
For Wilson, receiving this award holds a profound significance, as it harkens back to her formative years commuting from the Soundview section of the Bronx to A. Philip Randolph Campus High School, with the Harlem Y being an integral part of her daily journey.
“That walk up the hill from the 2 Train at 135th Street was no joke”, she remembered with a chuckle. “High school was when I started envisioning my future. The Harlem Y is part of the landscape of that pivotal time in my life.”
Raised in the Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, Wilson’s journey into the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) began during junior high school, where her exceptional aptitude in math and science was nurtured by supportive guidance counselors and teachers.
“A Career Day, where a local professional shared his experiences, planted the idea of an engineering career in my mind,” she said. “I thought, ‘I can do that’.’”
“Our customers and company benefit every day from Francheska’s talent, dedication and example,” said Patrick Williams, a general manager in System and Transmission Operations and Wilson’s supervisor. “It takes true professionals like Francheska to run our complex electric delivery system, so that we can maintain our industry-leading reliability.”
The bai program, founded in 1971 by Leo B. Marsh, the first Black president of the Association of the YMCA, aims to empower underserved teens by providing them with resources to pursue higher education and explore various career paths. Through mentorship, tours of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, corporate scholarships, and internships, the program equips students with the tools they need to succeed.
Wilson’s trajectory at Con Edison commenced after obtaining her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Polytechnic University, now known as the New York University Tandon School of Engineering. Over the years, she has held a multitude of roles within the company, showcasing her versatility and expertise.
Currently serving as the chief district operator in System & Transmission Operations, Wilson plays a pivotal role in developing Con Edison’s capital investment strategy to align with New York State’s ambitious climate law, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.
Her responsibilities encompass overseeing substations in the Bronx and Manhattan, as well as managing the electric control room in Manhattan, which coordinates crews for maintenance and service operations. Additionally, Wilson has been instrumental in designing major system upgrades across New York City and Westchester County, further solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in the field of engineering and sustainability.
