As we round out the first half of summer, Fresh Energy is celebrating two new additions to our team. Our bold new strategic framework has continued to serve as a powerful guide as Fresh Energy leadership have filled the roles of staff who have moved on to new opportunities and created entirely new positions that will aid us as we continue pursuing our mission to achieve equitable carbon-neutral economies. We’re thrilled to have Mike and Joe on the team!
Introducing Mike Schowalter
A recent transplant from New Hampshire, Mike joined Fresh Energy as senior policy associate, clean electricity and advocates for the decarbonization of our electrical grid, with a specific focus on the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). The bulk of Mike’s time is spent in partnership with other clean energy organizations, working together as Environmental Stakeholders within MISO’s planning process. Mike has extensive international experience, having worked in Ukraine, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and throughout Eastern Europe. Mike loves ultra trail running, reading fantasy and science fiction, experimenting in his garden, and trying to cook delicious meals. Read more about Mike.
Introducing Joe Dammel
Born and raised in the Twin Cities, Joe joined Fresh Energy as director of gas decarbonization and leads Fresh Energy’s work to decarbonize the natural gas system. In this role, Joe focuses on the transition away from fossil fuels and onto carbon-free electricity in buildings, as well as the transformation of the natural gas/dual-fuel utility business model. Joe began his career working at CenterPoint Energy, which led to four years working at the Attorney General’s (AG) office as a consumer advocate in utility matters. In his free time, Joe loves drinking coffee or root beer, gardening, or taking photographs, “Sometimes all at once,” he says. Read more about Joe.
At Fresh Energy, we know that achieving our ambitious decarbonization goals is only possible if we continue to grow our team so that the equitable and just clean energy movement we’re building in Minnesota and across the Midwest can meet this crucial moment for climate action. Stay tuned for more updates from Mike and Joe!
