Nathan Engstrom

Operations Director

M.S. Sustainable Design, The University of Texas at Austin
B.S. Sociology and Environmental Studies, Northland College

I have been providing leadership on sustainability and facilities planning and management for nearly 25 years. Across all of those experiences I continually work to further an understanding of the interrelationships between equity, economics, the environment, and education.

Wolf Ridge’s mission speaks to me and the challenges our world is facing speak to the importance of fostering environmental stewardship, inspiring curiosity and lifelong learning, connecting people to nature, and building social awareness and mutual respect. My own personal and professional journey is one that has been inspired by these beliefs.

I began my career as an Energy Services Advisor with the Wisconsin Energy Initiative-2 program, assisting K-12 schools across the state in identifying and implementing paid-from-savings energy efficiency improvements. After that I led a national award-winning home building market transformation program as Director of the Wisconsin Green Built Home program. More recently I have led sustainability strategy, planning, and project management for higher education institutions.

Across these roles I have managed sustainability programs and projects; served in a variety of facilities operations and planning and construction leadership roles; promoted regional partnerships on waste reduction, carbon neutrality, and renewable energy; led a collaboration to transition a municipal utility’s portfolio to nearly 100% renewables; and provided project development and management on a $12 million paid from savings energy conservation and solar PV project.

Here at Wolf Ridge I combine all those experiences with a love for the Northland and Lake Superior, overseeing Maintenance, Custodial Services, Dining Services, Office personnel, and the Wolf Ridge Farm. When I’m not on the Ridge I’m cuddling my two cats, exploring the North and South Shores of Lake Superior, and being Cool Uncle Nate to my nieces and nephews.