Joe Zimsen, Wind, Iowa
Joe Zimsen, who has been in the industry for 7 years, is a Construction Manager at Renew Energy.
Why is clean energy important to you? I started working in the renewable energy industry 7 years ago. As a service technician I learned to work safely on the mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems. It has been constant education ever since as I advanced in the industry. Energy independence is attainable and clean, renewable energy is the source we need to pursue.
What’s your proudest accomplishment in clean energy Safety is the top priority for all work in this industry. I am proud to support that goal, and always promote safety over production. There have been a few moments I have been proud of my work, and may have saved a few lives or prevented injury. One instance was locating a short in a wire that was grounding energy through the tower's ladder. I was able to identify the problem and repair it before anyone was shocked or electrocuted.
What did you do prior to working in clean energy? I spent much of my career working in nonprofits, serving my community's health and wellness needs.
How did you first get introduced to clean energy? I met the manager of a local wind power plant, and he gave me a job when the next position opened up.
What do you wish more people knew about the clean energy industry? More people should know more about the distribution network in America and how the energy market works.
What does your job mean to you and your family? My job has given me the opportunity to grow professionally and build my income to provide a comfortable life for my family.
How is clean energy helping your community / state? The industry in my home state of Iowa, and the states where I've worked has continued to grow, creating opportunities for countless people like me.
Why should congress invest in clean energy jobs? Fossil fuel is on a trend of diminishing returns. The cost of extraction is rising, while the benefit of each barrel is decreasing — especially as we factor the environmental impact into the equation. We would be better off to end oil and gas subsidies and divert those funds to renewable energy sources that provide much lower environmental damage to slow the climate crisis.
