October 2025 Polar Bearings

Join us on campus for our speaker series by outstanding alumni of Bowdoin College and other leaders in a wide range of professions. 

New England’s Energy Crossroads and the Future of the Maine Economy

Program Details:

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

11:30 a.m. Doors Open

12:00 p.m. Program Begins

1:30 p.m. Program Ends

Location:

Thorne Hall, Daggett Lounge

13 South St, Brunswick, ME 04011

We will hear from Patrick Woodcock '04, who will share his thoughts on New England’s energy challenges given geographic and political considerations. In addition, he will speak to the issues facing Maine’s economy now and in the future. How do we alter the state’s demographic trajectory and grow and maintain a younger, skilled workforce in the state? How do we distinguish Maine so as to attract industries and foster business innovation? Further, how do we balance our desire to expand our business pedigree and remain a top rated state for quality of life?

Patrick joined the Maine State Chamber in October 2023 as President and CEO after returning to his home state from serving in a number of state energy leadership positions in New England. Prior to joining the Chamber, Patrick was the Commissioner of the Department of Energy Resources under Governor Charlie Baker in Massachusetts, where he oversaw offshore wind procurements, new building codes, solar policies, and all other state and regional energy policies. Prior to working in Massachusetts, Patrick was Director of the Maine Energy Office from 2013 to 2016 in the LePage Administration where he led efforts to expand air source heat pump adoption. He previously served as an adviser to former U.S. Senator Olympia J. Snowe in her Washington office. Patrick graduated from Bowdoin College in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government. Patrick serves on the Board of the Energy Foundation, one of the country’s largest clean energy philanthropic organizations.