Posted on July 17, 2025 by Dillyn Carpenter and Sean Wiesemann
For over a decade, ClearPath has advanced clean energy solutions. In a city where people are policy, we envision a future where policymakers have the talent, expertise, and support needed to lead on clean energy.
To build this next generation of talent, ClearPath launched the ClearPath Conservative Leadership Program (CCLP). Designed to identify, recruit, and place talent across Washington, CCLP is driving forward our mission of accelerating American innovation to reduce global energy emissions.
The ClearPath Conservative Leadership Program (CCLP) hosted its second annual professional development event for interns, fellows and young professionals interested in clean energy policy. Attendees at "Powering Your Energy Career: Connections and Conversations for Emerging Energy Professionals in Washington" learned from energy policymakers and key stakeholders about clear paths to accelerate their energy careers.
The event participants engaged in many educational activities related to the energy sector, ranging from a fireside chat with Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) on navigating D.C. and tips for a successful energy career, to an interactive workshop on designing and participating in Congressional hearings.
Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) and ClearPath advisor Kristen Soltis Anderson
At this event, Rep. Ciscomani, who has consistently championed conservative clean energy policies in Congress, stressed the importance of young people’s involvement in clean energy advocacy. He also spoke about the significance of finding “win-win” policy objectives that benefit both the environment and the U.S. economy.
Participants then worked through a mock Congressional hearing, led by Natalie Houghtalen, Senior Policy Advisor at ClearPath. Congressional hearings play a role in most D.C. careers. This workshop highlighted the complex nature of hearings by allowing attendees to participate in a “mock” hearing from a Member's or witness' viewpoint, focusing on issues such as permitting reform, and scaling up clean, firm baseload technologies like nuclear power and next-generation geothermal to meet rising demand.
Participants during the mock hearing
This simulation provided an excellent opportunity to hone skills beneficial in D.C., and analytical and critical thinking skills that are important at every job.
Event participants had an opportunity to hear from global leadership consultant Steven Van Cohen, who discussed the best practices to build credibility in professional environments.
(L-R): Kristen Byrne, Executive Director of Government Relations at EEI; Daniel Dziadon, Deputy Chief of Staff for Rep. Frank Lucas (R-OK); Molly Ross, Senior Public Affairs Advisor for Holland & Knight; Emily Johnson, Senior Director of External Affairs for ClearPath.
The event concluded with a panel featuring three D.C. professionals with a wealth of experience in energy on and off the Hill. The panelists highlighted that whether pursuing a career on Capitol Hill, in the private sector, or shaping policy, there are many pathways to contribute to an affordable, clean, and reliable energy grid – both in D.C. and beyond.
Each panelist started on Capitol Hill as an intern more than one decade ago, and now, one is at a trade association, one at a lobbying and law practice, and one is a lead staff member on the Hill. From the challenges and rewards of exceeding expectations in a high-stakes environment to the transition to different career stages, the advice imparted by the panelists was inspiring.
The "Powering Your Energy Career" professional development event has successfully equipped the next generation of clean energy leaders with invaluable insights, practical skills and crucial connections to confidently pursue and continue their careers in the clean energy sector.
The CCLP is designed to identify future leaders, help them develop professionally and find opportunities on Capitol Hill to advance clean energy issues. To keep the United States as the top innovator in clean energy technology while reducing global emissions, the program aims to fill key policy roles on Capitol Hill with savvy, passionate individuals.
If you are on the Hill and your office would benefit from having a ClearPath fellow in your office, reach out to Dana Faught dana@clearpath.org.
Sean Wiesemann is the ClearPath external affairs intern for summer 2025.
