The Foundation for Energy Security and Innovation (FESI) has named Rick Stockburger as its first-ever Chief Executive Officer. Known nationwide for his leadership in energy entrepreneurship and community-focused innovation, Stockburger brings a strong track record of advancing regional ecosystems, commercializing emerging technologies, and delivering meaningful, mission-driven outcomes.
In his new role, Stockburger will steer FESI in supporting the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) as it works to enhance national energy security and economic prosperity through scientific advancement and technological innovation.
A Leader in Innovation and Impact
Miranda Ballentine, Chair of the FESI Board of Directors, emphasized the significance of this appointment. “Rick’s leadership marks a pivotal moment for FESI,” she said. “He brings a rare combination of strategic vision, stakeholder alignment, and tangible results. His appointment positions FESI as a transformative force in the energy innovation landscape.”
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Before joining FESI, Stockburger led BRITE Energy Innovators as President and CEO. Under his leadership, BRITE scaled its programs and budget by a factor of ten, supported over 200 entrepreneurs, and contributed more than $250 million in economic growth throughout the Midwest. He also expanded the organization’s philanthropic funding from $400,000 to over $5 million.
An Army veteran and a native of Ohio’s Mahoning Valley, Stockburger is recognized for his ability to unite public and private sector players, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs to work toward shared goals. His experience spans economic development, clean tech ventures, and coalition-building across the political spectrum.
“We need an energy commercialization system that serves every community and every innovation,” Stockburger stated. “FESI is here to bridge the gap between promising ideas and real-world impact. I’m honored to serve as its founding CEO and eager to get to work.”
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FESI’s Expanding Role in the U.S. Energy Landscape
FESI was established to complement the DOE’s capabilities, offering a more agile and flexible approach to regional and national challenges. Its mission includes accelerating the development and deployment of critical energy technologies, promoting public-private partnerships, and delivering resources to under-resourced communities and organizations working in energy innovation.
“Rick’s leadership comes at a pivotal time,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “His deep experience will help the DOE translate breakthroughs in research into tangible energy solutions. With Rick at the helm, FESI is well-positioned to be a critical partner in achieving President Trump’s vision of energy independence and innovation leadership.”
FESI has already begun showing results since commencing operations earlier in 2025. Notably, it co-hosted the Spring 2025 EPIC Pitch Competition, bringing entrepreneurs and public-sector stakeholders together in person to foster collaboration. The organization also committed to funding the top three winners to help bring their technologies to market.
Another major initiative includes FESI’s investment in the DOE’s Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) program. This effort provides crucial resources — including technical support, training, and funding — to rural and municipal utilities tasked with defending the electric grid from evolving cyber threats. These investments aim to strengthen the energy resilience of rural communities across the United States.
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Momentum in Fundraising and Strategic Growth
FESI has demonstrated strong fundraising capability since its formation. In 2024, it raised over $5.5 million, with another $6 million in proposals and commitments secured. This financial progress more than doubled the initial Congressional allocation. Additionally, the organization secured a $5 million grant from Builders Vision, which has also pledged to match future donations up to another $5 million — giving FESI significant momentum to expand its initiatives nationwide.
Stockburger’s appointment was formalized during FESI’s recent Board of Directors meeting, held in Chicago on July 23, 2025. The meeting focused on aligning strategic priorities and outlining forthcoming projects. As part of his onboarding, Stockburger plans to embark on a national listening tour to connect with innovators, funders, and collaborators from across the energy sector.
A Strong Endorsement from DOE Leadership
“Rick’s military service, combined with his proven leadership in clean technology, makes him an exceptional fit for this role,” said Anthony Pugliese, DOE Chief Commercialization Officer and Director of the Office of Technology Commercialization. “Together with FESI, we’re enhancing our capacity to bring groundbreaking research to market and strengthen America’s leadership in energy innovation.”
As FESI continues to grow, Stockburger’s leadership is expected to play a vital role in shaping the nation’s clean energy future — supporting a resilient, secure, and innovative energy ecosystem that benefits all Americans.
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Source: prnewswire
