Rick Stockburger has been appointed by the U.S. Department of Energy as the first chief executive officer of the Foundation for Energy Security and Innovation, or FESI. The DOE said Monday that FESI was created as its first independent agency-related foundation and aims to speed up technology commercialization, increase public-private partnerships and boost the energy system. The foundation was launched in February 2023 through the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022.
The retired Army infantry team leader said he was honored and humbled by his appointment.
“So many people have poured so much love and passion into this organization that I cannot begin to list them. Thank you to the board for trusting me with this great endeavor,” he said in a LinkedIn post.
Who Is Rick Stockburger?
Before his appointment, Stockburger held several executive positions in energy and technology organizations. He became co-chair of the National Coalition of Clean Energy Incubators. He was also a member of the Forbes Technology Council and a member of the board of directors at the Valley Growth Ventures. At Brite, he served as the president and CEO for two years. Before that, he was a member of the board of directors at United Way of Trumbull County. Stockburger also became a mentor for the NASA FedTech and ITech program.
Department of Energy’s Chris Wright Shares Thoughts
Energy Secretary Chris Wright welcomed Stockburger’s appointment.
“Rick’s proven leadership and background will help advance the Department’s efforts to move emerging technologies into real world energy deployment—strengthening American science, innovation, and energy leadership. With him in place, FESI will be a valuable partner in expanding private-sector collaboration and delivering on President Trump’s agenda to unleash American energy and innovation,” Wright remarked.
