By: Jon Trudel

Jonathan Trudel is a dynamic professional hailing from Sothern, Vermont, with a rich background in business development and sales within the Climate Tech sector. A graduate of Hartwick College with a double major in German and Political Science, Jonathan’s academic and professional paths have been shaped by a profound commitment to sustainability and global awareness, underpinned by the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship. With professional stints in New York City spanning marketing, digital advertising, and tech startups, Jonathan now dedicates his expertise to revolutionizing the electrical grid. An avid skier and outdoor enthusiast, his life is a testament to the belief that personal passions can fuel professional pursuits and contribute to meaningful global change.

Q&A With Jonathan Trudel 

Jonathan, can you tell us a bit about your early life and what influenced your love for the outdoors?

“Absolutely. I grew up in the beautiful mountains of Southern Vermont, which played a huge part in developing my passion for the outdoors. From a young age, I was involved in outdoor activities such as soccer, ski racing, and lacrosse. My childhood was spent embracing every moment I could get outside, which has deeply influenced who I am today.”

Your academic journey seems quite interesting, especially with your double major in German and Political Science at Hartwick College. What inspired you to choose these fields of study?

“I’ve always been fascinated by languages and the way they open doors to understanding different cultures. German appealed to me not just as a language but as a gateway to exploring European history and politics. Political Science, on the other hand, helped me grasp the complexities of global affairs and how they are interconnected. The combination of these two fields was incredibly enriching, especially during my time studying abroad in Austria and Germany, thanks to the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship.”

Transitioning from college to the professional world, how did your career begin, and what led you to the Climate Tech space?

“After college, I moved to New York City, where I started working in various roles that included marketing implementation, account management, and business development across different firms. My career has always been about seeking opportunities that challenge me and allow me to grow. The shift towards the Climate Tech space was a natural progression for me, given my lifelong commitment to the outdoors and sustainability. I saw it as a chance to contribute to something meaningful, addressing climate change and transforming the electrical grid in the United States.”

With such a busy professional life, how do you find time for your hobbies and interests?

“No matter how busy life gets, I make it a priority to stay active and connected to the outdoors. Skiing, cycling, and hiking are not just hobbies for me; they’re essential for my mental and physical well-being. I’ve been fortunate to travel and ski in some amazing places around the world, including Austria, Japan, and Canada, and I try to bring the same energy and enthusiasm to exploring new trails and slopes as I do to my professional endeavors.”

Finally, can you share how the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship impacted your life and career?

“The Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship was a turning point for me. It not only allowed me to extend my study abroad experience in Germany and Austria, but it also opened my eyes to the value of international education and understanding. This experience has been instrumental in shaping my worldview, enhancing my language skills, and ultimately influencing my career trajectory. It reinforced my belief in the importance of embracing global perspectives and the role they play in personal and professional development.”

Key Takeaways

• Passion for the Outdoors and Professional Alignment: Jonathan’s deep-rooted connection to the outdoors, fostered by his upbringing in Vermont, has not only shaped his personal interests but also steered his professional journey. This bond highlights the power of aligning personal passions with professional endeavors, particularly in fields that contribute to sustainability and environmental conservation
• Impact of International Education: The Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship and Jonathan’s subsequent study abroad experience significantly influenced his worldview and career path. This underscores the value of international education in broadening perspectives, enhancing cultural competence, and fostering global citizenship, all of which are crucial in today’s interconnected world.
• Evolution and Adaptability in Career: Jonathan’s career trajectory, from marketing and account management in New York City to a focus on sales and business development in the Climate Tech space, exemplifies adaptability and continuous learning. His journey illustrates the importance of evolving with the changing job landscape and leveraging diverse experiences to make impactful contributions in emerging sectors like Climate Tech.