Bio
Mike Twardy is the Strategic Engagement Lead for the Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. In this role, Mike provides support for ESTD leadership with strategy development and execution, stakeholder engagement and community outreach, with a focus on developing a safe, secure, resilient, and affordable energy future for the Southeast and Appalachian region. Mike is currently supporting several strategic initiatives across the directorate including the Next-Gen Data Centers Institute and related workshops, as well as co-chairing signature events like the Appalachian Carbon Forum and Smoky Mountains Mobility Conference.
Prior to joining ORNL, Mike worked for Shelton Group (an ERM company) as an Account Director where he led the development and execution of CSR, sustainability and ESG communications strategies and reports for Fortune 500 corporations, NGOs and multiple utilities. Mike also has 15 years of experience producing a wide variety of television programming, including science and technology themed shows, for networks such as Discovery, The History Channel, SyFy, HGTV and TruTV as well as content for several companies based in East Tennessee.
In addition to his work at ORNL, Mike also serves on the Board of Directors for the Foothills Land Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting, preserving, and enhancing the lands and environments of the Southern Appalachian region and promoting the character of the land for the benefit of the general public, now and in the future.