Jake Clark
39 | Vice President of Project Development, Encore Renewable Energy
Residence: Chittenden
Career highlight you are most proud of:
The career highlight I'm most proud of is guiding 60MW of solar and storage projects through the project development process in Vermont and New England. I'm happiest in my professional life when I am challenged and when I know that I have to continue to learn every day to deliver. 
These past several years with Encore, as I have participated in the growth of our team from a group of ten close-knit colleagues to a diverse and incredibly capable company of 40+ professionals, I have never felt such commitment to a shared endeavor - in our case developing projects which accelerate the transition to a clean energy future.
Community Involvement:
My community involvement includes serving on the Board of Directors for Renewable Energy Vermont, our state's clean energy trade association. In this role, I contribute to the legislative and policy advocacy work which REV focuses on each year to advance the realization of Vermont's renewable energy goals.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont?
I was motivated to live and work in Vermont through a love of the outdoors, and a desire to live and work in a community full of people who prioritize contributing to the resolution of challenging issues locally and globally.
Favorite part of your job:
My favorite part of my job is seeing a project when it is complete, when it is converting the sun's energy into power for homes and businesses. And when I can stand inside one of these projects, enjoying the sound of the bees buzzing underneath the solar panels on pollinators, knowing that the soil under my feet will be in recovery and rejuvenation mode for the next couple of decades - I know that I have been a part of something special.
What is the best career advice you have received?
The best career advice I have received is find your own way. Chances are that you are not like anyone else, so don't feel the need to follow anyone else.
Favorite Vermont escape:
My favorite Vermont escape is a secluded spot on Lake Champlain, with a fresh breeze, lots of sun, and clouds which look like animals if you squint just right. And of course, with special people keeping me company.
