This article is part of a series highlighting the recipients of the Last Mile Leadership Program (LMLP) scholarship, a component of a U.S. Department of Energy project focusing on decarbonization in Virginia. This award is run through the LODESTAR program operated by Virginia Clean Cities. Awarded to students, these scholarships are aimed at advancing clean transportation and electric vehicle (EV) adoption.
Ryan Varricchio is an intern at Virginia Clean Cities and a student at James Madison University. He majors in Business Management and will graduate in 2026. Read more about his story in his own words below!
Background: What inspired your interest in clean transportation and/or sustainability?
“My career goals and internship at Virginia Clean Cities make sustainability an important part of my life. I am inspired to benefit my community through practicing and enabling clean, sustainable efforts, and learning about these areas is an important asset.”
After you graduate, what kind of work would you like to be doing? What are you most excited for about your future career?
“I aspire to work in fleet management and logistics. I have had an interest in managing vehicles and routing, and being able to work with them to better serve others would be a dream.”
How has this scholarship helped you so far, and how might this scholarship help you prepare for your potential career?
“The Last Mile Leadership Scholarship has bolstered my understanding of the impacts that clean transportation has on communities. The ability to connect with the cohort of students, industry professionals, and additional resources has been insightful and invaluable. Additionally, understanding what efforts are occurring now has allowed me to learn the the successes, hardships, and requirements associated with clean, sustainable transportation. This knowledge will benefit me for implementing sustainability within my career.”
Congratulations, Ryan! We can’t wait to see you excel in your future!