Ecolibrium3 is pleased to welcome a new staff member, Simon Giese. Simon, a former AmeriCorps VISTA member, will continue his work at Ecolibrium3 as Program Specialist: Economic and Workforce Developer. Simon works on Eco3’s Industrial Transformation Team, implementing technical assistance from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory under the Energy to Communities (E2C) Program to help advance community-led industrial energy transformation. Additionally, Simon will support the Ecolibrium3 AmeriCorps VISTA program.
Originally from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Simon moved to Duluth six years ago to attend the University of Minnesota Duluth. After graduating in 2023, he began working as an AmeriCorps VISTA member at Mentor North, working to expand the organization’s reach in the community. In his second year, he joined Ecolibrium3 as a Community and Economics VISTA. Throughout his service, Simon helped Ecolibrium3 kickstart the Energy to Communities Program.
Simon has built a strong connection and appreciation for Duluth over the years. Outside of work, Simon takes advantage of the host of opportunities Duluth provides. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Simon enjoys fishing the region’s lakes and rivers, running and skiing Duluth’s trail systems, and surfing the Gitchigumee. He believes that through community engagement, proactive planning, and sustainable economic development, our region can advance industry-shifting projects while optimizing social, environmental, and economic benefits.
Simon’s love for Duluth and its people makes him a great fit to continue his role. We are glad to have him join as a staff member. Welcome, Simon!