A Career Built on Helping Others: Cory Chovanec's Journey in Weatherization - CleanTechnica

Cory Chovanec’s career in weatherization began unexpectedly after high school when he took a temporary job as a weatherization technician. Initially unfamiliar with the field, he quickly became passionate about the work after insulating an attic in a cold Wisconsin farmhouse and witnessing firsthand how improving home insulation significantly reduced energy loss and lowered heating costs for a low-income family. This experience sparked his dedication to the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), which aims to increase energy efficiency and affordability for low-income households while enhancing health and safety. Over nearly two decades, Chovanec advanced from entry-level technician roles to becoming the weatherization team lead at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Leveraging his extensive field experience, he now contributes to technical assistance, research, and resource development supporting the U.S. Department of Energy’s WAP. His work helps improve the effectiveness of weatherization efforts nationwide, ensuring that field staff have the tools and knowledge needed to reduce energy costs and improve living conditions for vulnerable populations. Ch