John Ramsey

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.”