Since 1985, the United States has set aside the first week of May to celebrate Public Service Recognition Week. This recognition honors the hardworking individuals serving our nation as federal, state, county, and local government employees.
At the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), we are privileged to share the inspiring stories of our employees. They demonstrate the power of taking action toward advancing clean energy technologies and building a more sustainable future. They also serve as shining examples of how anyone can become a Clean Energy Champion.
From May 8 to 12, 2023, EERE will introduce you to some of our outstanding public servants to learn why they serve. Below is a brief interview with Elisabet Metcalfe, the stakeholder engagement and communications lead in the Geothermal Technologies Office.
Elisabet Metcalfe (she/her/hers)
Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Lead, Geothermal Technologies Office
Washington, D.C.
13 years of public service
What drew you to public service?
A desire to make a real and lasting difference in people’s lives.
What does being in public service mean to you?
Facilitating relationships that make people believe the government is working for them, their families, and their communities.
What aspect of public service do you find most rewarding?
Hearing directly from stakeholders and communities about their energy needs and challenges.
Can you describe the path that brought you to EERE/your career in clean energy?
I was struggling with making my academic background in geology matter or have an impact on and connect with the everyday. Once I discovered EERE, I saw how I could apply my scientific training to real-world issues and help solve the greatest challenges of our time. I found exactly what I needed to feel fulfilled in my career.
What advice do you have for Clean Energy Champions who want to pursue careers in public service?
Get to know the work going on across EERE, DOE, and other federal agencies. Honor your core values, and don’t give up!
Clean Energy Jobs
EERE is hiring! Check out these career opportunities, and read more about jobs for Clean Energy Champions.
Clean En∙er∙gy Cham∙pi∙on
/klēn/ /ˈenərjē/ /ˈCHampēən/
noun
1. A person or group that takes action to support or join the transition to a renewable energy economy, with the knowledge that reducing carbon emissions provides daily benefits to every American so they can live happy and healthy lives.