Benjamin Margolis

Ben Margolis joins Breakthrough Energy’s Business Fellow program from Silver Spring, Maryland. An engineer turned entrepreneur, Ben has both founded and mentored several climate technology companies. Through the Business Fellows program, he is eager to learn about the latest, groundbreaking innovations in climate technology and help innovators bring them to market.

Ben started his career in the solar industry before founding a company offering energy efficiency services and co-founding a company providing EV services. He brings critical expertise in project finance and financial modeling as well as business development, marketing, and sales. As a consultant, he supported early-stage companies with go-to-market strategies and business insights. He also supported the launch of the Maryland Energy Innovation Accelerator (MEIA), where he designed an innovative commercialization program to support Maryland’s clean-energy and climate goals.

In his free time, Ben likes to bike, go to concerts, and spend time with his wife, three children, and dog. He received a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering from the University of Maryland and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Virginia. Along with his climate-focused endeavors, he’s passionate about building productive teams and company cultures.

Q&A

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

“Get over yourself” – from a sassy colleague. Drop the ego and listen to others.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A veterinarian. At 14, I got my first job in a veterinarian’s office and quickly changed my mind when I realized how much of the job is cleaning up animal droppings.

Who has had the greatest impact on your career path?

My wife. She has been with me every step of the way and has helped me to better understand myself so I could make the right decisions along the way.