Meet Jake Bergen, Project Manager at DCC!
Jake moved to Denver from North Carolina in the summer of 2023 and recently wrapped up his graduate studies at the University of Denver. With roots in sustainability and a passion for connecting people to cleaner, healthier ways to get around, he brings a community-focused perspective to his work at Drive Clean Colorado. When he’s not supporting local clean transportation efforts, you’ll likely find him outdoors on a hike, discovering new coffee spots, or enjoying a concert with friends.
Can you tell us about your role and background experience.
As a Project Manager at Drive Clean Colorado, I serve as a ReCharge coach for the East Central Region, supporting communities across Chaffee, Cheyenne, Crowley, Custer, El Paso, Elbert, Fremont, Kiowa, Kit Carson, Lincoln, Park, and Teller counties. I also contribute to several key initiatives, including the Colorado Mobility Planning Program, Charging Smart, and beyond.
With DCC’s mission to accelerate the equitable adoption of clean transportation, my role is centered around building connections and supporting local communities with their unique transportation needs.
Prior to this role, I interned with the Drive Clean team in the Denver Metro area while pursuing my graduate studies at the University of Denver. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and completed my Master of Arts in Global Environmental Sustainability, with a certificate in Public Policy, in March 2025.
What sparked your interest to work in the clean transportation space?
Clean transportation has long been a passion of mine, especially when it comes to accessibility. Growing up in North Carolina, I witnessed firsthand how limited public and alternative transportation options were. That experience sparked my interest in transforming how communities move. After relocating to Denver and learning about the state’s air quality challenges, I became even more committed to contributing to solutions that promote cleaner, healthier ways to travel.
How does your work at Drive Clean Colorado impact the communities you serve?
The East Central Region is a critical area for advancing clean transportation. Many of these counties are rural, where electric vehicles (EVs) may not be top of mind. By showing up, engaging with communities, and providing education about the benefits and accessibility of EVs, we’re helping to expand the EV network across Colorado. This work directly supports Governor Polis’ goal of reaching 940,000 EVs on the road by 2030 as outlined in the state’s Greenhouse Gas Roadmap. Our efforts are about making clean transportation more inclusive and attainable for all Coloradans.
Is there anything you’d like to share about yourself?
Outside of work, I’m passionate about spending time outdoors, whether hiking or just taking a walk through one of Colorado’s many parks. Cheeseman Park is my favorite local spot to hang out with friends, read, or walk. I also enjoy exploring new coffee shops and supporting local businesses wherever I go, particularly Hudson Hill or the Secret Garden.
