Posted on October 9, 2025 by Chase White
In an age where clean energy innovation is more important than ever, America needs the next generation of energy leaders. ClearPath’s Conservative Leadership Program (CCLP) is dedicated to cultivating tomorrow’s clean energy leaders, equipping them to shape policy and innovation. ClearPath offers a variety of pathways for young professionals seeking hands-on experience in energy policy and advocacy. Through internships, internal fellowships and Congressional fellowships, participants gain real-world exposure to policymaking and clean energy innovation. Congressional fellows are placed in key conservative offices, committees and caucuses on Capitol Hill to support energy policy development, while internal fellows and interns contribute directly to ClearPath’s mission.
A key component of CCLP is to help emerging professionals gain first-hand experience, expand their energy education and broaden their network. “I’m proud to be part of CCLP, supporting the policy team at ClearPath, where I work directly on our permitting, critical minerals and geothermal policy priorities,” said Jackson Blackwell. “Having recently completed graduate school, where I focused on energy policy and international affairs, ClearPath is the perfect place for me to further hone my research and analytical skills. I am grateful for first-hand experiences to further inform my policy expertise.” These opportunities strengthen fellows’ abilities to analyze complex energy challenges and contribute to meaningful policy discussions. By combining professional hands-on experiences with practical engagement, ClearPath’s leadership program ensures that fellows are prepared to shape the future of clean energy policy.
The ClearPath fellows spent three days in Chicago learning about cutting-edge energy innovations while building a cohort amongst their peers. From touring Argonne National Laboratory, one of the world’s most advanced research facilities, to attending professional development sessions designed around career development and personal growth, the trip offered a unique education and professional development experience while strengthening the fellowship community. “Our trip to Chicago was a wonderful opportunity to get to know the other CCLP fellows,” said Clara Wheelock, a CCLP Congressional Fellow with the Senate Western Caucus. “Engaging in professional development seminars, touring Argonne National Lab and exploring the city alongside my cohort gave me the chance to hear about the work they are doing and learn about their interests. It was a refreshing experience that reinforced my dedication to my current work in the Senate and my excitement about the future of clean energy innovation.”
CCLP fellows with Argonne National Lab Director Paul Kearns (top) and the Aurora supercomputer (bottom).
The group’s tour of Argonne National Laboratory gave the fellows an opportunity to see innovation first-hand. They saw Argonne’s nuclear research facilities, exploring the Aurora supercomputer and visiting the Advanced Photon Source, a massive synchrotron light source that enables cutting-edge experiments in materials science, biology and energy technologies. Argonne researchers shared how the Advanced Photon Source is being used to accelerate breakthroughs in energy innovation, including battery storage, materials for nuclear reactors and advanced manufacturing. Fellows met with Director Paul Kearns, Jaclyn O’Day, Interim Director of Government Relations and leading scientists who discussed how national lab developments are inventing new technologies in computing, nuclear science and climate solutions. For many fellows, the visit offered a unique window into how world-class science intersects with innovation policy.
The group participated in multiple skill-building and professional development sessions. These sessions focused on fine-tuning practical skills in professional confidence, creativity and leadership. The workshops were creative and interactive, giving fellows the chance to practice presenting, work collaboratively on problem-solving exercises and bond with peers and mentors.
As clean energy becomes a major priority across America, CCLP is preparing the next generation of energy pioneers to address this issue. Through day-to-day work and talent-cultivating experiences like the Chicago retreat, ClearPath provides young professionals with exposure to world-class science, professional development and a growing cohort network. “What impressed me most throughout the retreat was how deeply engaged and thoughtful our fellows were. Whether it was exploring cutting-edge energy technology, reflecting on leadership through Lego Serious Play or simply supporting each other as peers, they demonstrated the curiosity and commitment that define the next generation of conservative clean energy leaders,” said Dana Faught, CCLP Director. From world-class laboratory visits and professional experiences to cohort-building activities, CCLP is more than a program – it’s a launchpad for America’s next generation of clean energy leaders.
For more information about CCLP click here.
