White House Author
![](https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/sites/obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/files/styles/person_large_photo/public/person-photo/j_eric_mathis.jpg?itok=9XOMyKnv)
Joseph Mathis
J. Eric Mathis is the founder and director of The JOBS Project. His organization has been at the forefront of initiatives to bridge the gap between the fossil fuel and renewable energy industries, through the development and implementation of innovative finance and business models. These models are designed to be beneficial to both industries, creating mutually productive economic linkages between the fossil fuel and renewable industries and most importantly, the surrounding communities.
Mr. Mathis is an active board member of Williamson Redevelopment Authority and Mingo County Diabetes Coalition where he is helping to develop a comprehensive project entitled Sustainable Williamson, which emphasizes health and wellness as a key component for economic revitalization. Using Sustainable Williamson as a template, his most recent endeavor is participating in the creation and implementation of the Central Appalachian Sustainable Economies network which is an interactive regional network of innovators cultivating new ideas and resources in central Appalachia to grow healthy communities.
He is a proud Green for All fellow and a 2010 recipient of Interstate Renewable Energy Council’s Innovation Award for community renewables. Eric graduated from Appalachian State University in 2007 and is presently finishing his master thesis in history.
Joesph Mathis is being honored as a Champion of Change for his innovative energy priorities and sustainable living practices making a greener community a possibility in any American city or town.