Eric Thatcher, Clean Energy Technologies

Just another day at work for Eric Thatcher, standing in front of a solar field in rural Nevada.

Eric Thatcher, MBA, CEM, LEED GA

Today we meet Energy Institute instructor, and really great guy, Eric Thatcher. Eric works as a Senior Sales Executive of Energy Performance Services for Siemens. In his spare time he operates a ham radio, rebuilds his 1983 Mercedes diesel in his garage at home, and takes his scout troop camping. He also teaches our Clean Energy Technologies course, bringing his expertise and passion for energy conservation and environmental sustainability to benefit students at Salt Lake Community College.

Eric came to the field of clean energy through his experience in robotics. He used to help automate warehouses for large Fortune 500 companies and, like many people, changed his career trajectory during the economic recession of 2008. At that time, Performance Contracting was newly emerging and mostly focused on renewable energy projects. Eric loved the idea that he could help communities and the environment while also helping his clients save money on their energy expenses. It was a win/win for everyone.

We asked Eric how he stays on top of new technologies in this rapidly developing field. "It's hard," he said "but it's necessary to stay sharp enough for the job." Fortunately, he can rely on a whole Research & Development team at Siemens to keep their eyes on the horizon. He receives mandatory training, at least 2 hrs per week, in new products and services that come out of advancing technology. 

This outlook on emerging technologies is a focus that Eric brings to his classes as well. He asks students to come with an open mind and be ready to explore history and politics in order to understand the depth and breadth of the clean energy industry. "We look into the future and try to determine the tipping point for clean energy. It's a mind-bender. There's so much cool stuff going on, it's hard to keep track of it all. Even if you took the class a year ago you'll learn something new this time around."

Eric also has some career advice for his students -- stay flexible: "Specialization is really important career-wise, but as a species we are pretty much in control of this planet because of our ability to adapt."

Connect with Eric on LinkedIn