Secretary Perry visited each Energy Department National Laboratory.
November 7, 2018
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When I became Secretary of Energy, I made a commitment to personally visit all 17 of our National Labs. I’m pleased to report that I recently completed that fascinating journey and had the privilege of seeing the incredible work being undertaken by our Nation’s brightest minds.
Our nation’s commitment to science and innovation is alive and thriving. DOE’s labs are constantly pushing the bounds of innovation, advancing our national security, making breakthroughs in everything from materials science to medical research, and developing the next generation of energy technologies that will literally change the world.
But what has most impressed me, whether at Forrestal, in the field, or at a lab, has been the amazing men and women of the DOE Team. DOE and National Lab employees work day-in and day-out to expand human understanding, overcome challenges and improve lives. Seeing it all first-hand reminds me how fortunate we all are to work at DOE ... because our work is consequential. We don’t have to look in the mirror each morning and wonder if what we are doing matter, we already know the answer.
I am immensely proud of America’s National Labs and all the great people who work to advance DOE’s mission. Thank you to the men and women of DOE and our National Labs for always impressing me, educating me and reminding me that having the chance to lead the Department of Energy is by far the coolest job I will ever have.
Rick Perry
Former Secretary of Energy Rick Perry served as the 14th Secretary of Energy.
Prior to joining the Administration as Secretary of Energy, Perry served as the 47th governor of Texas. As Governor of the Lone Star State, Perry championed conservative principles that helped Texas become America’s economic engine.
Governor Rick Perry is a veteran of the United States Air Force, having flown C-130 tactical airlift aircraft in Europe and the Middle East. He is deeply involved with supporting the active duty and veteran community, both as Governor and now as Secretary of Energy.
Perry earned distinction early in his life as an Eagle Scout. He was one of the first in his family to go to college, earning a degree in Animal Science from Texas A&M University, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and a Yell Leader.
He is a lifetime member of both the NRA and American Legion Post #75.
Perry married his childhood sweetheart, Anita, in 1982. They have two children, two beautiful granddaughters, and a grandson who was born on the 4th of July of this year.