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I started doing electrical work when I was 15 years old. I spent five years in the Navy and today I live in Searsport and work at the mill in Skowhegan. My family loves where we live, and we’re putting down roots.
For my family’s sake, I know that we need to do everything we can to fight back against climate change, and one of the best ways we can do that is to develop offshore wind energy. I also know that the offshore wind industry would bring good-paying union jobs when we develop a new port to service the industry.
The midcoast has been hit hard in the last decade. We’ve lost a lot of jobs, and the road to the middle class for working families has gotten longer.
Now, with a new port we have a chance to create new, local jobs for Mainers. I’m lucky to have a good job in Skowhegan and the protection that comes from being a member of my union. I want other people to have that chance close to home.
It’s time that Maine can take control of its energy needs and develop homegrown sources of energy that we can produce here. With offshore wind, we can be energy independent, and that really matters.
I support offshore wind and a new port because it will be good for people like me. And I support it because I know that it will make the world better for my family.
Matt Pender
Searsport
