“Meet the People Behind the Work”
From Service to Sustainability: Meet Kelly Wurtenberg
Kelly Wurtenberg is LF Bioenergy’s Staff Accountant—and one of the people behind the work. As a U.S. Navy veteran and former “Electronics Technician 2nd Class,” she brings a steady hand, a service-first mindset, and a deep drive to do work that matters beyond the day-to-day.
In Kelly’s words, “when I was 21, I was a young mother in Alabama, and opportunities felt limited. But I knew one thing for sure: whatever I did next, I wanted to make my daughter proud. So, I joined the Navy and served for six years as an Electronics Technician working on communications gear. That decision took me on adventures I never imagined—traveling to places I never thought I’d see—and it changed how I saw myself. I joined with very little confidence, but I left knowing I could accomplish anything. My daughter was the reason I took that leap and found my strength.
I valued my time as an “Electronic Technician 2nd Class,” but I also realized it wasn’t the right long-term fit for me. I have a lot of respect for the people who troubleshoot all day—it’s hard work. I decided to go back to school and pursue accounting and finance. As a non-traditional student, I was proud to model perseverance for my kids. Many evenings, we did homework side-by-side at the kitchen table, and when I graduated, I put both of their photos on my graduation cap.
When I learned about LF Bioenergy, I was immediately excited about the work we do. Partnering with farms and creating a positive, lasting impact on the climate is something I’m truly proud of. I love sharing our mission with others because there’s nothing more rewarding than doing work that aligns with your values. I think it’s vital to choose a path that makes you—and the people you love—proud. For me, that path has always been service: to my kids, to this country, and now to our environment.
I’m proud to be part of a team turning everyday work into lasting impact—and I hope my kids see that service can take many forms.
