Senator martin heinrich biography of barack

The Foundation of Martin’s Values

Martin's Parents, Pete & Shirley

Although neither of his parents earned a college degree, they taught Martin the value of hard work and playing by the rules.

Martin’s upbringing shaped his work ethic and values.

His father, Pete, immigrated to America in the 1930s and later served in the Navy during WWII. Afterward, Pete became a lineman with IBEW. Martin’s mother, Shirley, is the daughter of Idaho homesteaders who worked in a factory without union benefits. 

At home, Martin saw the power of organizing up close, and it has made him a strong ally for labor and workers.

A Career Built on Education and Innovation

In college, Martin learned about the power of renewable energy

Martin earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Missouri-Columbia, where he worked various jobs to support himself.

It was here that Martin’s passion for clean energy began.

He helped design and build a carbon-fiber, solar-powered car c