STEWARTSVILLE, Mo. — When Chris Evans talks to farming families thinking about leasing their land for energy projects, he speaks from experience that runs much deeper than his job title. 

"The farm I live on has NextEra Energy Resources leases," Evans shares. "After the Osborn Energy Center became operational, I lived here for seven years before coming to work for the company. I know these projects from many perspectives, and in my experience, it’s been great for my family and great for my community." 

It's a full-circle story that gives Evans unique credibility as a project manager in community engagement for a territory that includes Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Nebraska. Growing up just 20 miles from where he lives today, Evans knows the ins and outs of farm life.   

"We had hay and cattle growing up," says Evans, who still lives on one of his family’s farms. “Now, I get to talk to landowners participating in projects. One farmer purchased a cab tractor, with heating and cooling, thanks to revenue gained from a project. Another landowner left a city job he didn't love to return to farming full-time.” 

Each new energy project brings opportunities for farmers, generates construction jobs and increases property tax revenues that helps fund schools, roads and public safety. Evans helps to bring these benefits to fruition and serves as a long-term contact with each community.  

"I've talked to a family with a centennial farm who knows they'll be able to keep the land for another 100 years thanks to an energy project," Evans says. "Farming is a multi-generational thing, and these families can rest assured the land will stay in their hands." 

Evans' path to NextEra Energy Resources wasn't traditional. He managed a contractor supply company until an unexpected call came.  

"One day, I was at the grocery store and a friend from NextEra Energy Resources, who I met when they were developing on my family’s land, called to ask if I would come work for the company," he recalls. "I've gained lifelong friendships here." 

Now Evans crisscrosses his multi-state territory to bring projects to life. The job means he no longer participates much in farm work, but it also allows Evans to witness the transformative impact of energy projects firsthand. 

"I was talking to a school superintendent recently, and the school was able to replace flooring that was originally installed in the 1970s thanks to our community impact," Evans says. "I have also seen a new school stadium get built, and another county got a road grader." 

The community benefits extend well beyond infrastructure.  

"I love to see the company support fire departments, sheriff's offices and emergency management services," Evans says. "We can really make a difference." 

Evans's approach is deeply personal. His wife jokes about his habit of talking to strangers, but those connections often lead to unexpected discoveries.  

"When I'm passionate, I become more of an extrovert," Evans explains. "I feel very comfortable in these rural communities." 

That comfort comes from genuine understanding. Many of the communities Evans serves face population decline and other challenges that energy projects can help to address. His own family's positive experience gives him authentic stories to share. 

"People can be skeptical at first, but I love to show them the benefits in action," Evans says. "If you can get their boots on the ground, they can better visualize the project." 

For Evans, community engagement is about being a good neighbor where he has deep roots. 

"At the end of the day, we're neighbors," Evans says. "I live here too, and I want to see these communities thrive for future generations."