CLEER Internship: Colorado College Career Center Funding

Summer 2020


About Me:

Name: Zach Benevento-Zahner

Class Year: Senior

Majors: Economics and Environmental Policy

Minor: Race, Ethnicity and Migrations Studies

Hometown: Harrisonburg, VA

Summary: This summer I worked remotely with CLEER. I worked on three main projects: an Economic Transition Study, a Regional Energy Inventory, and a Colorado Clean Deiseal Outreach project. Through these projects I learned about data collection and management skills. I also have gained knowledge about the oil and gas industries role in generating public revenue on the Western Slope of Colorado. I am excited to take these newfound skills and interests into the workforce next year. 


Internship Overview:

Position Title: Summer Intern

Employer Name: CLEER

Employer Location: Carbondale, CO

On-site or Remote: Remote

Industry: Climate Change Policy, Non-Profits

Highlights: Creating a groundbreaking regional energy inventory and economic transition article.


Internship Goals

Goal #1: Meet people working in the area of Carbondale–Goal met

Goal #2: Understand what it is like to work for a small non-profit–Yes!

Goal #3: Compare the politics of rural Colorado and Virginia–Yes.


Personal Impact

This has been a fantastic experience that has shaped what I want to do with my future. I have really enjoyed working with a tight knit team to accomplish some truly cutting edge climate work.


My Contributions

I worked on three projects. See my summary for greater detail


Life Outside of Work

I lived in Colorado Springs with my roommates during the summer. I did some fun hiking and swimming while not working.


What's Next

I am not sure. I hope to find a good job and will probably go to Grad school eventually.


Advice

If you want a position see if you can make it happen. This position had to be created this summer. With the help of the career center it was possible.


Connect With Me

z_beneventozahner@coloradocollege.edu

(540) 705-1661