River City Six – Jessica Renner
Meet Jessica Renner, project manager at Energy Studio (www.energystudioinc.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
Energy Studio assists architects, engineers, and building owners in maximizing the energy efficiency of their buildings. Day to day, I build and analyze energy models for buildings of all types and complexities, including labs, schools, and office buildings. I provide feedback to project teams about their buildings’ current energy performance and identify bundles of energy conservation strategies to help meet energy goals.
How did you get started in the business?
I graduated from the Architectural Engineering program at the University of Nebraska. I interned and spent my formative engineering years as an HVAC design engineer at Leo A Daly. It was fun to see how the concepts I was learning in school were applied in the real world, and it’s safe to say, that I was hooked on engineering.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
I’ve been at the Energy Studio for over seven years and have had different roles since I joined. It’s rewarding to be part of a company that started as three people to one that has doubled in size and opportunities. Also, last year, I was honored as one of Engineered Systems’ 20 Women to Watch in HVAC for my contributions to the industry.
Tell us a little about your family.
I’ve been married to my wonderful husband Isaiah Renner for a little over a year and a half. We have a 14-year-old beagle who sleeps about 20 hours a day.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
The year I turned 29—I changed my job, watched a long relationship end, and bought my first house in Omaha. It was when I started living for myself instead of listening to other people tell me what my life should look like.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Go on a walk outside, watch bad TV, or help on my husband’s food truck.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I’ve done a little touring as a musician. For the very first tour, my best friend Tara and I packed a duffel bag of clothes and our musical instruments into my car and played 12 shows in 16 days on the East Coast.
Who inspires you?
My boss and mentor, Amanda Bogner, who founded Energy Studio when she was 30 years old. I appreciate the positive example she sets by splitting her time between work, family, and a position on our city’s public power board of directors.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Just say yes and you’ll figure it out afterwards.” – Tina Fey
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
The ability to stop time, Zack Morris style.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
I’m very passionate about ASHRAE, a professional society for HVAC engineers that I have been involved with for 14 years. This has given me access to speaking opportunities, leadership development retreats, and networking connections that I otherwise wouldn’t have had.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
My husband is the owner/ chef of the Dire Lion Grille & Chippy, Omaha’s only English-style food truck, so you know my answer has to be him!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(888) 503-7591, Ext. 103; Jrenner@energystudioinc.com; www.energystudioinc.com.