This periodic series of three images and responses to questions tells the stories of people of The Valley who love what they do. As Confucius once said, “Choose a job you love and you will never work a day in your life.”
This article features Jen Fleckenstein, co-owner/operations, Clear Water Filtration, Waitsfield, Vermont.
How long have you lived in Vermont and where did you grow up?
I have lived in Vermont my whole life, 43 years. I grew up in Warren, went to Warren Elementary School, then Harwood, then UVM.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a professional dancer in NYC.
What was your first job and how did you get it?
My first official job out of college was working for an outpatient physical therapy clinic as a certified athletic trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist. I was offered a position after an internship.
Who was the biggest influence in your decision to choose the work you now do?
My dad, he saw my business brain long before I realized it may be something that fulfills and inspires me. He took a shot on me and welcomed me into the family business. I am very grateful for that.
What steps did you take to get where you are today/what sacrifices have you made to get to this point in the work you do?
Lots of long, hard days and perseverance when things don’t go as expected or when something goes wrong. I’ve sacrificed time with my family and time pursuing other interests I have such as art, dance, and pottery.
What is the best job advice that you’ve ever received?
Be humble, curious, and empathetic.
What are you most grateful for in your life?
My husband, Mark, and sons, Noah and Finn. I am incredibly lucky to have a very supportive husband and two sons, who are understanding of my obsessive business brain. They cheer me on when I need encouragement, celebrate our successes, and hug me after the long, hard days.
How do you give back?
Historically, I have served on several boards for nonprofit organizations, and presently I serve the State by acting as a member of the technical advisory committee, and Clear Water Filtration supports our local organizations by making donations.
What do you do in your free time?
Walk with friends, garden and attend my sons’ sports events.
Do you have a favorite quote that you live by?
“Nothing to it, but to do it”
Special thanks to Jen’s colleague, Travis Brown, for agreeing to be photographed for this article.
To suggest someone who “Loves What They Do…”, email
