NATE Hausman
39 | Clean Energy States Alliance | Project Director
Residence: Montpelier
Career highlight(s): A key component of my job involves working with state officials to ensure that all segments of our society have access to the benefits of solar energy. I currently manage an initiative to accelerate the deployment of solar projects that benefit low- and moderate-income households. I am tremendously proud of my work helping state policymakers and program managers implement strategies to build an inclusive solar economy while decarbonizing our electricity supply.
Community Involvement: I serve on the Board of three organizations: 1) the Catamount Trail Association (CTA), which works to promote and protect Vermont’s winter backcountry terrain and to connect people with a public-access ski trail that spans the state; 2) Montpelier Alive, an organization working to promote the vitality and vibrancy of downtown Montpelier; and 3) the Vermont Sustainable Jobs 
Fund (VSJF), a legislatively founded nonprofit providing funding, support, and technical assistance to Vermont-based, green-economy businesses and business networks. I serve as chair of the CTA’s Development Committee and sit on the organization’s Executive Committee. I serve as Vice President of the Board of Montpelier Alive, and through my Board role, coordinate the City of Montpelier’s litter removal activities for Green Up Day. I serve as Vice Chair of the Board of VSJF and serve on its Finance Committee. I also participate in a multi-day, hands-on service projects spearheaded annually by my family.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont? Calvin Coolidge said it best: “I love Vermont because of her hills and valleys, her scenery and invigorating climate, but most of all, because of her indomitable people.” More than its geography, Vermont represents the melding of an ethic of community and service with self-determinism—or as it’s captured in our state motto “freedom and unity.”
Most inspiring mentor and why: My grandma Marie. Standing barely five feet tall, she was a force to be reckoned with. But she also was a beckon of love and light. I was proud to name my first child Marie, born this fall, after her.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: I’ve had more than one audience with HH, the 14th Dalai Lama.
Favorite Vermont escape: Spring, summer, fall, or winter, the NEK never disappoints.
Favorite downtime activity: My favorite downtime activity is ceramics. I love everything about throwing pots on a pottery wheel.
What one song is on your playlist that are you embarrassed to tell your best friend: “Baby Beluga” by Raffi (and occasionally covered by me in the shower).