John Ramsey
Vice President , Energy Division , KeyLogic Systems
LORI KERSEY TRACY A . TOLER PHOTOGRAPHY
Long before the vice president of KeyLogic ’ s energy division picked a career path , John Ramsey chose West Virginia . He knew even as a child that he wanted to make a lasting impact in his home state .
“ I knew I wanted to solve problems in the community I came from ,” Ramsey says . “ West Virginia is a great state , a state that I love , and I ’ ve always wanted to be part of shaping its future success .”
Ramsey grew up in Monongah in Marion County , where he spent much of his time outdoors , fishing and hiking . Ramsey ’ s father , a coal miner , and mother , a bank employee , emphasized education and making a difference . They were constant reminders to use one ’ s talents to benefit others .
Ramsey ’ s work ethic started early . His first job was working at an ice cream shop in his hometown . His grandmother ’ s advice was to stay busy because when you ’ re not busy , there is always something that needs swept or cleaned .
“ That principle applies today ,” Ramsey says . “ Always be leaning forward and advancing . Don ’ t waste any opportunity to provide value . No job is too big or small to require your attention .”
Ramsey attended West Virginia University ( WVU ) and graduated with a degree in chemical engineering . His first professional job was as a co-op engineer at Dow Chemical in Kenner , LA .
“ That job taught me the complexity of a workforce and its various dynamics ,” Ramsey says . “ The plant environment has significant opportunities and challenges . I learned on the fly and applied the skills I developed at WVU to real world situations .”
Ramsey worked in multiple locations in the U . S . and overseas , including his time spent in China and with a startup in Russia . While he enjoyed the job and Dow Chemical , he felt called to work that directly impacts his home state .
“ I found alignment of passion and purpose with KeyLogic ,” he says . “ I love being based in Morgantown .”
In his role with KeyLogic , Ramsey manages the company ’ s partnerships with the U . S . Department of Energy ( DOE ) and the National Energy Technology Laboratory ( NETL ).
“ I am fortunate to work across many strategic and technical areas , helping NETL and the DOE address some of our nation ’ s most pressing energy challenges ,” Ramsey says . “ It is especially gratifying to support programs directly impacting West Virginia as part of the DOE and NETL ’ s overall mission . I also help develop exciting new capabilities within our KeyLogic team .”
Ramsey credits his family for helping him succeed in his career .
“ I ’ m blessed to have parents with exceptional character and a focus on education and service ,” Ramsey says . “ I ’ m supported by a spouse and family that have always encouraged me to take on new opportunities . My wife has been amazing throughout my career , believing in me and encouraging me to choose impact and values over other priorities .”
Ramsey recently helped launch the Morgantown-based U . S . Research Impact Alliance , which has a mission to enhance the country ’ s leadership in innovation and technology development and increase the economic impact of federally funded research .
Ramsey also volunteers much of his time at various community organizations . He serves on the boards for Leadership West Virginia , Marion County Soccer Club and Empire Soccer Club and the chemical engineering advisory board atWVU . He also coaches youth soccer , basketball and baseball and teaches Sunday school at his church .
“ I believe our calling is to serve in and outside of the workplace ,” Ramsey says . “ I try to choose opportunities that align to my core values and make a direct impact on the communities they serve .” •
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ?
MIDNIGHT SNACK : Cinnamon Toast Crunch
COLOR : Mountaineer Gold and Blue
MOVIE : “ The Money Pit ”
WEST VIRGINIA LOCATION : Canaan Valley
Ramsey inside the gym at the Compass Wellness Center , located on the fifth floor of the recently renovated Jean Dean Public Safety Building .
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