What interested you in working at Clean Energy NH?
When I first talked to Melissa Elander about the community energy coordinator position at CENH, she mentioned how often she worked with New Hampshire communities. I was drawn to the opportunity of working closely with the community members and business owners of New Hampshire because I believe personal and grassroots efforts are some of the best ways to enact the change you want to see. When I learned CENH was a nonprofit organization I got excited to work with a company that was more driven by the issues I was passionate about and less about turning a profit.
What were you up to prior to working at the organization?
Before starting at CENH I was completing my bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Policy at Plymouth State University.
Why did you decide to work in the clean energy industry?
I think I’ve been drawn to the clean energy industry since I was young, I remember building a small solar circuit with my grandfather so I could charge my Gameboy. Later in my life, I became more passionate about the environment than engineering and decided to pursue a career in it. I think I soon realized that the energy sector has such a massive influence on the environment and environmental policy that I felt like I could have the most impact by working to advance the renewable energy sector in any way I could.
Describe your position in more detail. Who will you be working with and what will you be doing?
As the community energy coordinator at CENH, I will spend most of my time working with businesses and homeowners in Coos county helping to implement energy efficiency measures and renewable energies in their homes and buildings. Most of my work is acting as a team member for these projects, someone who can dedicate more time to some of the more time-consuming tasks. For instance, I can assist in filling out grant applications and putting individuals in contact with contractors, energy auditors, and grant representatives while seeing each project through to the end.
What aspect of your job excites you most? Why?
I think the most exciting aspect of my job is the chance to interact with a wide variety of people. I love hearing about peoples lives, what drives them and what goals they have for themselves and their businesses. Helping people to become more energy efficient and economically independent while also working to tackle climate change is such a unique opportunity that I am so thankful for.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Try every single kind of food someone offers you.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
When I’m not working I enjoy cooking, hiking, swimming, skate boarding and snowboarding, and spending time with my partner.
A typical weekend for me is…
Sleep in. Then finding a trail or swimming spot I haven’t been to yet and exploring there, in the evenings I like to experiment with new recipes and relax by watching a movie.
What’s on your bucket list?
Going on a food tour on every continent, also sky diving.
If you could choose anyone to play you in a movie, who would it be?
Tom Hardy
Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.
I have been to 46 out of the 50 states.
Fun Facts:
Coffee or Tea? And how do you take it?
Coffee just milk
Favorite NH Restaurant
Trailbreak Tap & Taco in West Lebanon
Favorite Musician/Band/Music genre
The Clash
Favorite Recreational activity
Snowboarding
Favorite Holiday
Thanksgiving