Describe your career trajectory.
My journey began long before my first job. I am a ninth generation West Virginian—and West Virginians are deeply connected to the land. It’s our Appalachian heritage. We are attuned to the environment and enjoy a culture of hunting, fishing, and hiking. And we have grit.
My grandfather and his forebears worked in coal mines their entire lives. They labored in conditions most of us can only imagine.
Like my grandfather, my career began in fossil fuels. I graduated college at the height of the shale boom and secured an entry-level position at a leading U.S. natural gas producer. My colleagues recognized my potential, and within six months I became a landman. I learned about leasing, mapping, real estate and mineral title, and title curative. Four years later, with considerable experience and the encouragement of colleagues, I enrolled in law school. I have been in private practice since 2017.
Why renewable energy?
I hold a profound respect for the historical role coal played in bolstering our region’s economy and fueling the industrial revolution. The oil and gas industry gave me a strong foundation in real estate law and an understanding of how real estate, industry, and public utilities intersect.
Simultaneously, my reverence for the environment has only deepened over time, as I view us all as stewards of our planet. I have seen firsthand how fossil fuel extraction created coal slurry and black lung while destroying streams and habitats. I have also seen firsthand how devastating the loss of mining and manufacturing jobs can be to a region.
As we navigate toward a more sustainable future, I believe we have the opportunity and responsibility to explore alternative energy sources that prioritize both human health and environmental preservation. I am deeply committed to contributing to this important work.
Why have you chosen to make your career at Husch Blackwell?
While pursuing a private practice, I kept my long-term goal of working in renewables in mind. I wanted to learn about carbon capture, tax credits, and other things—and to figure out a way to bring this to my home state. It wasn’t until I joined Husch Blackwell’s Energy & Natural Resources group and virtual office (The Link) that everything came together for me. Because of the Link, I can work on renewable energy projects from my home office and raise my children in the wild and wonderful land where I grew up.
How does Husch Blackwell support your practice?
In every imaginable way. The firm’s culture, use of technology, and approach to practice development have made it possible for me, a single mother, to raise my children near family and friends and still relentlessly pursue my dream of helping renewable energy projects come to life.
Here’s a very personal example. Shortly after I joined the firm, we had a family emergency. I turned to Cacki Jewart, my Husch Blackwell mentor, for help, and she immediately set the wheels in motion. The firm connected me with the right resources, and we came up with a temporary action plan for my workload. I can honestly say my kids are okay today in large part because their mother is supported by her employer. For that, I am fiercely loyal to Husch Blackwell.
What is your advice for a new hire?
Don’t be intimidated! Yes, it’s a big firm with sophisticated work and international clients, but the professionals who work here are still human. They will support you and your goals.