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The Wyoming County Economic Development Authority (EDA) is proud to announce Luke Miller as the new Stewards Energy Communities AmeriCorps Volunteer In Service To America (VISTA). Luke will serve a full year advancing economic development, workforce readiness, and environmental remediation plans in nine federally designated communities across Wyoming County.
Luke joins the EDA as part of the Energy Community AmeriCorps Program, an innovative initiative designed to alleviate poverty and build local capacity in communities nationwide. This groundbreaking program will deploy 150 AmeriCorps VISTA members over the next three years, with Luke being one of 17 individuals in the inaugural class. The program is led by Conservation Legacy, a respected AmeriCorps partner with over two decades of experience supporting economic development and environmental revitalization in coal communities. Since its inception, Conservation Legacy has engaged over 1,200 AmeriCorps members, secured $41 million in grants, recruited 100,000 volunteers, and improved over 3 million acres of land.
Luke’s journey to Wyoming County is as inspiring as the mission of his new role. Originally from Nairobi, Kenya, he moved to the United States at the age of eight and grew up in Oviedo, Florida. Luke’s academic background is impressive—he holds an Associate of Arts degree from Seminole State College of Florida, a bachelor’s degree in Geology and Anthropology from the University of Florida, and is set to graduate with a master’s degree in Public Administration and a certificate in Public Policy Analysis from the University of Central Florida this fall.
Professionally, Luke brings valuable experience from internships with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Governmental Accountability Office, where he worked on coal plant regulations and other policy initiatives. His decision to join the Energy Communities VISTA program stems from his belief in its mission to address the economic and environmental challenges facing communities affected by shifts in the energy sector. “The Energy Community AmeriCorps Program is unique because it’s a one-of-a-kind initiative funded by both public agencies and the private sector,” Luke shared. “Its focus on building capacity in energy communities through economic development, workforce development, and environmental outreach is essential for ensuring a just and prosperous future.”
In his role with the Wyoming County EDA, Luke is excited to create sustainable, long-term programs that will benefit the community for years to come. “I want my efforts to result in a multi-year program or strategy that can be carried forward by future VISTAs, volunteers, or community members,” he said.
Beyond his work, Luke’s personal interests include art, media, biking, cooking, and baking. He sees his time in Wyoming County as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the region while gaining experience that aligns with his long-term goal of working for an environmentally focused agency.
The Wyoming County EDA is thrilled to have Luke on board and looks forward to the positive impact he will make in our community. Please join us in welcoming Luke Miller to Pineville and supporting his efforts to build a brighter future for Wyoming County.
