2022 SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
Keynote Speakers:
Sam Spofforth
Clean Cities Project Leader National Renewable Energy Laboratory & Vehicle Technologies Office Sam Spofforth is a Clean Cities Project Leader at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory on assignment to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office Transportation Integration team. His role involves collaborating with DOE, national labs, and Clean Cities coalitions to help the Clean Cities Coalition Network maximize its impact implementing alternative fuels, advanced vehicles, and fuel-saving strategies. Prior to joining NREL, Sam worked as the founding Executive Director of Clean Fuels Ohio (CFO), a Clean Cities coalition, for twenty years. As a statewide nonprofit, CFO grew to become the largest of the more than 75 Clean Cities coalitions. He was named the Midwest Clean Cities Coordinator of the Year in 2004, national coordinator of the year in 2007, and inducted into the Clean Cities Hall of Fame in 2011. His peers voted to award him with the Benjamin Watson Inspirational Award in 2015.
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Paul Stith
Director Global Transportation Initiatives Black & Veatch Paul Stith is the Director of Global Transportation Initiatives for Black & Veatch’s Growth Accelerator, where he builds ecosystems needed to plan, finance, deploy and operate sustainable transportation and distributed clean energy infrastructure at scale. He advises and leads teams supporting investors, utilities, fleets, and energy and transportation providers to electrify and automate ground, aviation and marine fleets. Previously, Paul was a Director at EV Grid, where he led Vehicle Grid Integration and Storage roadmaps with California Energy Commission, California PUC filings, National Institute of Standards and Technology on EV fueling and participated in the CA Governor’s ZEV Action Plan.
Andy Abrams
President EVauto EVauto’s founder, Andy Abrams, leads the company. His 30 years of experience in commercial engineering, design, and control systems development and operations guides the development, refinement, and testing of the EVauto platform. His desire for constant improvement drives the company’s focus on constantly improving platform performance and expanding its features and capabilities. Mr. Abrams received his MBA in Business Administration (2005) from Emory University, Atlanta, GA and his BS in Electrical Engineering and BA in English (1983) from the University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN.
Sean Ackley
E-Mobility Segment Lead, Americas Hitachi Americas, Ltd. Bio: Sean Ackley has had a career focus on electrical infrastructure technologies and execution projects. As the Hitachi Social Innovation Business resident expert on EV technologies, Sean leverages his background in cloud managed services, product development, testing interoperability, and construction project management in facilitating critical thinking around the transition of large fleets to electric powertrain. His previous experiences in data center power supply and backup, micro-grid power generation, and SCADA/PLC system integration \\also help in thinking through the total power ecosystem that is necessitated during a scaled EV fleet deployment.
Shawn Armour
Motivational Speaker Shawn Armour is a motivational speaker, consultant, mentor, educator, coach and creator who stands in the gap for Black, Brown, and BIPOC youth. As the Math, Engineering, Science, and Achievements (MESA) Director for Seattle Central College, Shawn brings a unique perspective gained from his experiences in corporate America to our youth, empowering them and those around him to unleash their untapped potential. Shawn prides himself on being solutions focused to shed light on how to can build a better brand by showcasing your invaluable talents and following their dreams. Shawn learned the value of education at an early age growing up in St. Louis Mo, as the oldest of his sibling in a single-parent home. Shawn’s faith, dedication, hard work, and determination to avoid the stereotypes of a life destined for poverty and mediocrity inspired him to earn a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from Grambling State University (HBCU). As a professional learner, he has continued his education and earned a Master's in Business Administration, and is a PH. D. Candidate in Education Technology which has led to an accomplished professional career. Shawn is married to his college sweetheart from Grambling and they have three children. Shawn knows that excellence is a journey, not simply a destination. His passion for youth has inspired him to teach, develop, and mentor hundreds of future STEM leaders. As the Executive Director for Compukidz Worldwide a non-profit leadership program and the Leadership Chairman for Seattle Alumni Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and the Vice-President of the NPHC for the Pacific Northwest, he brings this same dedication to his work with POCIGS and other business leaders as they strive to empower people to achieve greater sustainability by leveling the playing field.
Craig Beaver
Administrator for Transportation Beaverton School District Craig Beaver is the Administrator for Transportation for the Beaverton School District, located in Beaverton OR. With over 38 years of experience in the transportation industry, Craig leads the largest school bus fleet in the state with over 300 buses servicing over 22,000 students per day. In addition to diesel school buses, over 25% of its fleet consists of LPG-powered buses. Beaverton introduced the first 2 electric school buses to Oregon in 2021 and is expecting delivery of two additional units by the end of 2022.
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Buford Barr
COO New Day Hydrogen Buford is a proud graduate of the University of Texas at Austin (Hook’em Horns!). An engineer by education, experience, and some would say personality. Buford is an established front-line leader in the energy industry. Seeing that the energy industry was at a transition point and certain that he wanted to play a part in that transition, Buford had the good fortune to connect with several like-minded individuals from very different backgrounds and, by the close of 2020, they created New Day Hydrogen. New Day Hydrogen is a hydrogen project development company based in Colorado. Their mission is addressing climate change by launching new clean energy markets for hydrogen fueling and infrastructure. We do this to because our future demands clean energy now! As a founder of a startup company, he wears numerous hats, but is primarily focused on the development of our customer and project partner base, as well as the successful development and implementation of our projects. Those projects range from hydrogen fueling stations for vehicles; to utility-scale hydrogen generation and storage; as well as smaller scale uses on a municipal or individual plant level.
Richard Battersby
Assistant Director Public Works City of Oakland Richard is an Assistant Director of Public Works for the City of Oakland, California and is the Director of the East Bay Clean Cities Coalition. He has over 25 years in the fleet industry managing private sector, federal, state, county, and city fleets. During his tenure, he has received national recognition from the APWA and Government Fleet Magazine, and has been inducted into the Clean Cities and Public Fleet Manager Halls of Fame. Richard has served in many NAFA committee, chapter and leadership positions over the years. He currently serves on NAFA’s Board of Directors and Government Affairs committee.
Neil Bhagia
Key Accounts & Partnerships Shell Hydrogen Mobility in North America Neil leads Key Accounts and Partnerships for Shell Hydrogen Mobility in North America. In his current role, he is responsible for developing partnerships to deliver customer centric hydrogen refueling and production infrastructure solutions. Prior to Shell, Neil worked for Wrigley and Nestle ensuring there was candy on store shelves for kids to enjoy those sweet moments. Neil holds an MBA from The University of Chicago – Booth School of Business, and a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.
Gus Block
Director of Corporate Development Nuvera Fuel Cells Gus Block is a founding member of Nuvera Fuel Cells, a company established in 2000 to provide hydrogen and fuel cell solutions for on- and off-road vehicles. Gus focuses on developing fuel cell markets for medium- and heavy-duty motive applications. Gus’s engineering career has focused on enabling the use of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier, beginning with a Fulbright fellowship in 1995 to build a wind-powered electrolyzer in Sri Lanka. At Nuvera, he has championed fuel cell commercialization and been directly engaged in the development of opportunities in materials handling and other early markets, working closely with the US Department of Energy and industry trade groups. Gus has served on the governor’s Zero Emissions Vehicle Commission in Massachusetts since it was established in 2013, is chair of the Communications and Marketing Committee of the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association and is a board member of the California Hydrogen Business Council. Gus earned a degree in mechanical engineering from The Cooper Union in New York after working as a wooden boatwright in San Francisco, Port Townsend and the Maldive islands until his thirties.
Tammie Bostick
Executive Director Utah Clean Cities Tammie Bostick leads Utah Clean Cities (UCC) as executive director with a passion for clean fuels, clean air and clean strategies. She had a degree in Organizational Communication from the University of Utah. She is the lead on the nationally recognized project EVZion, Electric and H2 shuttles for East Zion and ChargeWest-West Electric Highway; an 8 Western State Corridor collaboration; which is the largest in the states. Tammie addresses private and public leadership locally and nationally on the future of transportation and climate communication focusing on actionable steps for fleets that include advanced fuels, vehicles, and the visionary deployments of new technologies. Her work focuses on renewable fuels and clean energy with a focus on renewables, electric vehicles, and hydrogen.
Megan Boutwell
President Stillwater Associates As president at Stillwater Associates, Megan directs business operations and implements growth management within the company. Megan has overseen the expansion of Stillwater’s transportation fuels consulting and online publication business over her 16 year career at the company. She guides sales and management of consulting projects and publication efforts. She is also responsible for developing and editing content on a wide range of transportation energy issues reported on in Stillwater’s West Coast Watch, LCFS Newsletter, and monthly company newsletter. This content focuses on the transportation energy transition and includes transportation energy policy, supply and demand fundamentals, and petroleum and renewable fuels market activity. Megan earned a BA in French and English Literature from Hollins University and an MBA from the University of Oregon.
Niko Bouwkamp
Business Development Manager H2 GTI Energy As GTI Energy’s Business Development Manager H2, and formerly as the CaFCP manager for everything HD FCEVs, Nico leads project teams intending to solve technical and strategic challenges. In this role, he supports efforts related to fueling heavy-duty FCEVs with hydrogen, heavy-duty transit bus and truck strategy and technology development, and a national HD H2 fueling infrastructure
Abbey Brown
Technical Lead Clean Fuel Standard Washington Department of Ecology Abbey Brown is the Technical Lead for the Clean Fuel Standard at the Washington Department of Ecology. She has spent her career working on climate, energy, and air quality policy for governments and non-profits in New York City, Washington, D.C. and Washington State. She holds a B.A. in Political Studies from Bard College and a M.A. in International Environmental Policy from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies.
Rex Brown
Director Safe & Thriving Communities Division Rex Brown is the first director of the new Safe and Thriving Communities Division. In his current role, Rex leads social impact investments to prevent violence as a public health equity issue —especially for Black and Indigenous People of Color— for over 136 contracts worth more than $54.7 million annually to address: neighborhood-based environmental strategies to reduce crime rates at hotspot, de-escalation support in response to shots fired, re-entry services, case management, community awareness about disproportionality in criminal legal services, family support to prevent youth from entering the criminal legal system, and supports to address family and gender-based violence and sexual assault. Prior to his selection as Safe and Thriving Communities Division Director, Rex Brown led the Washington Subcabinet on Business Diversity at the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE). In this inaugural Subcabinet role, he conducted the first Statewide Disparity Study in 2019. In the past, Disparity Studies have been used to determine contract fairness largely in the transportation industry by comparing the number of individuals or groups seeking contracts and those actually selected. Rex innovated this usage to include all statewide contracting (goods and services, client services and public works) to address systemic racism. Rex also created the first Washington State Community of Practice (CoP) to implement various forms of race and gender neutral (and later race and gender conscious) policies, initiatives and tools. The CoP is a network of state procurement professionals sharing best practices and ideas to increase use of certified minorities, women, and veterans. These efforts led to implementation of the first Washington State program supporting contracts with small businesses owned by minorities, women, and veterans. Rex received the Public Service Recognition Award for implementing CoP diversity best practices including voluntary inclusion goals and plans; technical assistance/business development; changes in contract language, contract requirements and solicitations; and, community outreach best practices.
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Pam Caro
Director of Sales Nuvve Holding Corp Pam Caro is Director of Sales at Nuvve Holding Corp, where she works with a range of transportation providers and major utilities across North America who are looking to electrify their Med/Heavy Duty vehicles. Pam collaborates with various stakeholders involved in the EV procurement process: air districts, contractors, installers and end users in order to have a successful EV deployment. She resides in Southern California with her husband and two young daughters.
Neeraj Chirmulay
Chief Technology Officer Viatec, Inc. Neeraj Chirmulay is the Chief Technology Officer at Viatec, Inc., a company he co-founded in 2015. Viatec makes a universal electric power take-off (ePTO) system for hydraulic equipment, on conventional as well as all-electric work trucks, called “SmartPTO”. Educational/ Training Background Neeraj graduated from Clemson University/ CU-ICAR with a Masters in Automotive Engineering, and worked in Engine Development in the Detroit area. He then moved back to Greenville, SC to work for an electric bus company, and then an electric off-highway equipment startup, before co-starting Viatec. He has also been a consultant for the WMATA (“DC Metro”) for transit bus engineering.
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Ambika Coletti
Senior Manager Beneficial Electrification ICF With 10 years of experience, Ambika helps energy clients and their customers convert vehicles and equipment to electricity to save money and reduce emissions. She specializes in the design and management of beneficial electrification and fleet assessment programs and is responsible for developing and refining ICF’s fleet modeling framework. Her work includes managing Seattle City Light’s new Fleet Electrification Program, which provides the utility’s customers free fleet advisory services and financial incentives for EV chargers, including make-ready infrastructure support for qualified fleets.
Joel Creswell
Climate Policy Section Manager Air Quality Program Washington Department of Ecology Joel Creswell leads the Climate Policy Section at the Department of Ecology, which oversees the state’s Clean Fuel Standard, diesel emissions reduction programs (including the Volkswagen settlement), and fluorinated gases phaseout. Prior to Ecology, he worked on climate and environmental policy at the regional and federal levels, including at Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. House of Representatives. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin and is a Portland, Oregon native.
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Jason Dake
VP Legal & Regulatory Affairs Orange EV Jason Dake is responsible for all legal and governmental interactions for Orange EV. Jason has more than 22 years of in-house counsel experience including Senior Legal Counsel (Americas) for Cargotec Holding, Inc., Counsel and Secretary for Cargotec Holding Inc. (including all of its US subsidiaries), Deputy General Counsel for DeLaval Inc., and General Counsel for Avanex Inc.
Gary Dannar
President & CEO DD DANNAR, LLC. Gary Dannar is a successful entrepreneur, visionary, and innovator whose career has been defined by seeing opportunities that others don’t, and then building solutions to seize them. He currently is President and CEO of DD DANNAR, LLC, the manufacturer of the revolutionary Mobile Power Station (MPS), the first zero-emission modular platform that functions as both a multi-purpose off-road work vehicle and offers a grid-scale auxiliary power supply. He founded the company in 2011 with a vision to decarbonize the heavy equipment sector while also providing a new, and sustainable pathway to environmental resiliency. Dannar’s career is marked by success as an executive in large corporate enterprises in the U.S. and abroad as well as an entrepreneur. In addition to his years at Ford Motor Company and New Holland, where he drove sales and business development for heavy equipment, he also led product development for The General and the Alamo Group. He’s also started or acquired businesses, including Little Roadside Management (an award-winning equipment prototyping and fabrication company) and the Kitselman Pure Energy Park (a sustainable mixed-use real estate development). Throughout all his endeavors, Dannar has committed to moving industries forward with innovative, sustainable, and purpose-built solutions.
Terry Dell
VP of Channel & Marketing Motiv Power Systems Terry Dell is an experienced leader with over 25 years in technology sales and marketing. Terry joined Motiv Power Systems in October of 2021 to lead the channel sales and marketing efforts. Prior to joining Motiv, Terry has led sales and technology teams for organizations including Verizon and Continental’s Zonar Systems. Since 2013, Motiv has been deploying all-electric, medium-duty vehicles. Leveraging that real-world customer experience, Motiv has developed charging and battery solutions that will deliver improved EV performance while simplifying the deployment process.
Suyog Deshpande
Product & Partner Marketing Samsara Suyog Deshpande leads Product & Partner Marketing functions at Samsara. As part of his responsibilities he leads marketing strategy for sustainability and EV product lines. Suyog worked for a decade in product and design teams. He holds six patents and is an inventor on three additional pending patent applications. Suyog got his undergraduate degree from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati, M.S. from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor and an MBA from the U C Berkeley Haas School of Business.
Bill Elrick
Executive Director California Fuel Cell Partnership Bill Elrick is the California Fuel Cell Partnership’s Executive Director, with over 25 years of experience in the alternative fuel transportation industry. Under his leadership, CaFCP members have developed new analysis tools and detailed rollout plans that industry, state and federal agencies reference in planning support for hydrogen stations. He works directly with industry stakeholders including automakers, station developers, medium and heavy duty fuel cell vehicle developers, and government to facilitate collaborative actions that fulfill each organization’s needs. He serves as a member of the California Energy Commission’s Clean Transportation Advisory Committee. Bill has a master’s degree in urban and regional planning from Ball State University and an undergraduate degree from the University of Indiana.
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Andrew Evans
Empire Hydrogen Andrew Evans has 30 years of experience in product commercialization. His specialties include discovering and implementing those final adjustments to a product that make it perfect for the intended customer, setting up a complete marketing program, establishing sales and distribution channels, and leading the drive to take a young company to maturity. With Bachelor degrees in Commerce and International Business Law and the Chartered Financial Analyst professional designation, Andrew has the ability to strategically plan at the highest corporate level. Prior to joining Empire Hydrogen, Andrew led a company in the solar industry, selling some 10,000 systems to municipal governments across North America and around the world. Previously, he headed Canada’s second largest corporate newswire, selling compliance press release services to more than 1,000 public corporations. Both of these were start up situations that became extremely successful under his leadership. Andrew started his career as a stock broker, creating sophisticated options trading programs for executives in the Calgary oil patch. Andrew particularly enjoys working with start up situations where he can make a solid contribution to all aspects of the company, from deep involvement in R&D to establishing lean manufacturing programs to directing sales and marketing and oversight of financial responsibilities. He looks forward to adding Empire Hydrogen to his list of successful experiences. Married for 33 years, he is a published author and avid sailor.
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Aaron Feaver, PhD
Director Joint Center for Deployment and Research in Earth Abundant Materials JCDREAM Dr. Feaver has a background in the synthesis and processing of high-performance earth abundant carbon and silicon materials. He co-founded two materials companies in the energy storage space: Group14 and EnerG2. Feaver and team grew EnerG2 (which was recently acquired by BASF) from a small venture backed start-up company to a 100-person manufacturing organization with locations in Seattle and Oregon. Group14, with operations in Woodinville, WA, is focused on production of advanced silicon materials which increase the energy capacity of lithium ion batteries. Feaver has written and spoken extensively on Materials Science & Engineering as well as the specific use of carbon and silicon materials in transportation and clean energy storage applications. Feaver was also a project manager and engineer at the Boeing Company where he worked in Liaison Engineering and Value Engineering. He serves on the board of advisors for the University of Washington’s Materials Science and Engineering Department. He holds a BA in Physics from North Central College, a BS in Civil Engineering from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Washington.
Mark Fitz
President StarOilco President of StarOilco, a full service oil company serving 100 miles of the Portland, Oregon metro area. Graduate of Lewis & Clark Law School. Member of the Board of Directors for Columbia-Willamette Clean Cities Coalition.
George Fotopoulos
VP – E-Mobility Business Unit Leader Mack Trucks, Inc. A business executive with 20+ years’ experience currently responsible for the eMobility Business Unit at Mack Trucks, Inc. With the start of a new technological era, we are developing and executing a strategy securing Mack’s position as the leader in the sales and service of electric vehicles for the HD/MD commercial truck market. With many great colleagues and industry partners we lead the commercialization efforts including program management, sales and market execution of Mack’s electric vehicle product portfolio and eSolutions that address the entire EV lifecycle.
Erin Galiger
Senior Business Development Manager Rocsys, Inc. Erin Galiger is the Senior Business Development Manager, North America for Rocsys, a start-up leading in EV Charging Automation. Erin manages deliveries to customers and is building the Rocsys business within the region. Previously, Erin worked at Forth, a non-profit organization in the electric transportation space. She designed and led pilot programs that focused on reducing barriers to electric vehicles for various stakeholders. She is a charging infrastructure subject matter expert, having also previously worked as a Product Manager for ABB, a major global EV charging infrastructure company, where she focused on the development and deployment of high-power chargers. Erin grew up in Chicago and received her BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Denver.
Ray Gallant
Vice-President Product Management Volvo Construction Equipment Dr. Ray Gallant currently holds the position of Vice-President Product Management and Productivity for Volvo Construction Equipment, part of the Volvo Group of companies. Ray is responsible for Region America’s vision for future product development and technology, sales and operator training programs, customer center operations, the Volvo CE demonstration program, and other required sales support activities. Ray is a forest engineer, with over 25 years of working in product development, product planning, and sales and marketing with various equipment products. He believes we are on the cusp of exciting emerging technologies that will transform the industry and open up opportunities in efficiency, productivity, safety, and operator comfort. Ray holds a Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) from Dalhousie University, a Bachelor of Science in Forest Engineering from the University of New Brunswick, a Master of Science in Management degree from Boston University, and his Doctor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in International Business. Ray and his wife (Wendy) and two children (Josée and Alex) reside in Chambersburg, PA.
Jeffrey Gilchrist
Client Account Manager Black & Veatch Jeffrey Gilchrist is a Client Account Manager for Black & Veatch representing the West. After completing his degree in nuclear engineering, he began his career working for DTE Energy at the Fermi II NGS. In 2012, he changed career paths and began working for the Volvo Group (Heavy Duty vehicles). Here, he managed the Regulatory Affairs group for the Prevost Motorcoach division, as well as supported the Volvo & Mack Trucks divisions, for all things safety, environmental, and policy changes. He then moved into Fleet Delivery of the city bus (Nova Bus) division where he managed the fleet acquisition lifecycles of various transit agencies in the United States and Canada. This included vehicles with powertrains fueled by diesel, CNG, hybrid-electric, as well as fully electric vehicles. Coming back full circle, he is now back in the power industry working for Black & Veatch serving utilities that are trying to stay prepared, resilient, and agile in the age of mass fleet electrification.
Rich Gottwald
President & CEO Compressed Gas Association Rich Gottwald is the President and CEO of the Compressed Gas Association. CGA’s mission is to promote the ever-improving safe, secure, and environmentally responsible manufacture, transportation, storage, transfilling, and disposal of industrial, medical, and food gases and their containers. Before joining CGA, Rich served as President and CEO of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals where he realigned the organization to be a unified voice to protect existing markets and to grow new business for its members. Before APSP, Rich held senior management positions in several trade associations including the International Sign Association, the Plastics Pipe Institute, and the Society of the Plastics Industry. He began his career as an application engineer with Dow Chemicals. Rich holds a BS in Plastics Engineering from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell and is a Certified Association Executive (CAE). He lives in Washington, DC.
Rich Gottwald
President & CEO Compressed Gas Association Rich Gottwald is the President and CEO of the Compressed Gas Association. CGA’s mission is to promote the ever-improving safe, secure, and environmentally responsible manufacture, transportation, storage, transfilling, and disposal of industrial, medical, and food gases and their containers. Before joining CGA, Rich served as President and CEO of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals where he realigned the organization to be a unified voice to protect existing markets and to grow new business for its members. Before APSP, Rich held senior management positions in several trade associations including the International Sign Association, the Plastics Pipe Institute, and the Society of the Plastics Industry. He began his career as an application engineer with Dow Chemicals. Rich holds a BS in Plastics Engineering from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell and is a Certified Association Executive (CAE). He lives in Washington, DC.
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Christina Grabo
Director of Sales Blue Star Gas Christina Grabo is the Director of Sales at Blue Star Gas. Since joining the company in 2015, she has guided numerous public and private transportation providers through the process of implementing clean, economical propane Autogas in their fleets. She takes great pride and satisfaction in helping fleet customers save significantly on their fuel expenses while practicing environmental stewardship. Blue Star Gas has been in business 84 years, is family owned, and an industry leader of propane Autogas supply and related fueling infrastructure. From our fifteen locations in California, Oregon and Washington, Arizona and Utah, we supply Autogas to publicly accessible fueling locations and provide onsite fueling infrastructure to meet the needs of fleet customers. Blue Star Gas is known as a leader in innovative technology and was instrumental in bringing renewable propane to market in 2018. Our team’s knowledge of propane Autogas equipment, regulatory factors, and environmental considerations helps guide our customers through their transition to clean energy. Our focus on outstanding customer service and ongoing support helps ensure the success of each customer’s implementation.
Nicola Graham
Project Manager Air Quality & Sustainable Practices Team Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) Nicola is a project manager on the Air Quality and Sustainable Practices team at the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA). She has been with the NWSA for 6 years and leads many decarbonization programs and initiatives including the NWSA’s Clean Truck Program, the Port of Tacoma’s 2021-2025 Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy Implementation Plan, and the NWSA’s Clean Cargo-Handling Equipment Program. Nicola has a Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences from the University of Edinburgh, and a Masters in Rural Planning and Environmental Management from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Michael Graham
Director of Policy & Communications Columbia-Willamette Clean Cities Coalition Michael S. Graham is the Coordinator of the Western Washington Clean Cities Coalition and the Director of Policy & Communications at the Columbia-Willamette Clean Cities Coalition. Clean Cities, a US Department of Energy program, functions as a public private partnership with fleets to help reduce transportation petroleum consumption through education, outreach, and fostering of local partnerships. Michael works closely with fleets and clean transportation stakeholders across the Northwest to support alternative fuels adoption. This work includes sharing information, conducting outreach, deploying clean vehicle projects, and reducing barriers by informing policy and connecting likeminded peers. His recent work has involved managing two Federal awards to reduce diesel emissions by replacing diesel refrigerated trailers with electric units, as well as a recent award from Portland General Electric to deploy the State of Oregon’s first all-electric refuse truck in a local Portland, minority-owned company. Michael has also participated on rulemaking advisory committees around the Oregon DEQ’s Volkswagen Mitigation Grant Program and Oregon Clean Fuels Program to help share the fleet and alternative fuels perspectives. Prior to the CWCCC Michael co‐authored Oregon’s first Statewide Inventory of Biogas & Renewable Natural Gas Resources (2017) at the Oregon DOE. Michael currently focuses on collaborating and problem solving with local fleets across Oregon and Washington to help them adopt cleaner fuels and technologies wherever economically practical.
Mike Grainey
Principal Michael W. Grainey Consulting LLC Mike Grainey has over thirty years’ experience in energy, including green transportation. Mike was Director of the Oregon Department of Energy from 2002 to 2009 and Deputy Director the prior twenty years. He advised four Governors on energy policy. He then became Renewable Energy Adviser at the Oregon Business Development Department until 2014, when he began his clean energy consulting firm. Mike was named Renewable Energy Adviser of the Year by Finance Monthly Magazine’s Global Awards 2019 and 2020, and by Global Advisory Experts for 2020 and 2021. Mike has a JD degree from New York University Law School and an undergraduate degree from Gonzaga University. He lives and works in Salem, Oregon.
Jeff Grant
VP Transportation Solutions Jeff Grant has over 22 years' experience in business and project development, and government relations in the hydrogen sector. With a passion for electrification of the transportation industry, Jeff has been instrumental in developing hydrogen and fuel cell equipment deployments in early markets. As Principal and co-founder of Zen Clean Energy Solutions, Jeff led Zen’s project development and fleet transition verticals with a focus on creating and refining ideas, finding, and securing non-dilutive funding, identifying partnerships, and delivering contracts. He led multiple project development files for Zen, including key partnerships for HTEC’s early-stage light-duty fueling network in BC. Prior to co-founding Zen, he spent 15 years at Ballard Power Systems in several key business development roles, including the commercial lead for the North American bus market. At HTEC, Jeff is responsible for the Transportation Solutions department, involving fleet transition planning, transportation project development and execution, and vehicle leasing for heavy-duty fleet partners. Jeff recently served as the Vice Chair of Hydrogen BC.
Gene Gurevich
Vice President of Policy Electreon Wireless Inc. Gene Gurevich is the Vice President of Policy at Electreon Wireless Inc., a leader in wireless EV charging technology. Prior to joining Electreon, Gene worked as Director of Policy and Business Development at Mobileye, a leader in collision avoidance and autonomous vehicle technology. Before Mobileye, Gene worked as Vice President of Government and International Affairs at Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE), an organization focused on reducing U.S. dependence on oil for economic and national security reasons. Prior to SAFE, Gene worked as Professional Staff and Counsel at the U.S. House of Representatives, Committee on Foreign Affairs, covering the Middle East and Eurasia. Gene earned his J.D. from the University of South Carolina and his B.A. in Political Science from the College of Charleston.
Kevin Hachey
Kevin works to increase equitable access to EV charging, especially around multi-unit dwellings and workplaces. He formerly served as a Climate Action Specialist with the City & County of Honolulu Office of Climate Change, Sustainability, and Resiliency. Kevin has hands-on experience installing conduit for DCFCs. He holds a B.S. in Political Science from East Carolina University.
Jennifer Harper
Strategy & Risk Supervisor Energy Northwest Jennifer Harper joined Energy Northwest in 2008. In her current position, Jennifer’s primary responsibility is oversight of Energy Northwest’s enterprise risk management program, administrative audit, and support of the organization’s strategic planning. In the years leading up to her current role, Jennifer was a project developer and led development of nearly a dozen electric vehicle (EV) fast charging stations, and worked with utilities throughout the state to develop grant applications to fund many more. Energy Northwest is passionate about building the EV infrastructure to bridge the charging gap between and throughout eastern and western Washington, and Jennifer’s grant work secured $2.4 million in funding toward the build-out of charging infrastructure in previously underserved corridors throughout the state. Funding was awarded from Washington State Department of Transportation, Washington State Department of Commerce, TransAlta Coal Transition Fund, Pacific Power and Bonneville Environmental Foundation. Beyond her efforts on transportation electrification, Jennifer worked with community leaders and industry professionals to advance merging technologies for decentralization, digitization and decarbonation. Her work included hydrogen, demand side management and other clean energy solutions.
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Kent Hartwig
Kent Hartwig Director of State Government Affairs Gevo Kent Hartwig has served as Director of State Government Affairs at Gevo since July of 2022, where he enacts low carbon policies at the state and local level. Mr. Hartwig is a government affairs leader who specializes in building strategic governmental partnerships and has more than 20 years of experience working with state and local governments. Before joining Gevo, Kent engaged legislators on behalf of the Iowa and Minnesota Senates as well as the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs. He also worked for Advocacy Strategies, an Iowa-based multi-client lobbying firm, and Renewable Energy Group, a leading producer of biodiesel and renewable diesel. Mr. Hartwig graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Political Science and will graduate with a Master of Arts in Communication from Drake University in August of 2022.
Zach Henkin
Director of EV Program Research Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE) Zach Henkin is the Director of EV Program Research at the Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE), where he leads research focused on the adoption of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. Zach has led numerous nationally scaled electric vehicle demonstration projects, and his work in transportation equity, workplace charging, and consumer education have been referenced broadly. Zach has an MBA with a specialization in renewable energy, formerly served as a planning commissioner and economic development commissioner and is a Third Derivative (D3) cleantech mentor.
Dr. XB Hu
Assistant Professor Pennsylvania State University Dr. XB Hu is an Assistant Professor at Pennsylvania State University in the department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and directs the SmartMobility lab at PSU. Prior to joining PSU, he was an Assistant Professor at Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T at Rolla MO) between 2017 and 2021. Before that, he was a founding team member, and Director of R&D at Metropia Inc. – a university spinoff that develops systems and smartphone apps to reduce traffic congestion. His research focuses in the area of Smart Mobility System, Dynamic System Modeling, Active Demand Management, Autonomous Vehicles, and Electric Vehicles.
Colin Huwyler
CEO Optimus Technologies Colin is a veteran of the renewable fuels industry. Prior to becoming CEO of Optimus, he was the founder and CEO of Fossil Free Fuel, a renewable fuel company, and was the Director of Research and Technology at Steel City Biofuels, a biodiesel program of Penn State University. Colin is the co-inventor on a number of Optimus patents, holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh, and earned a certificate in Entrepreneurial Leadership from Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business. Colin has consulted and given lectures on biofuels, product development, the low-carbon economy and a variety of other topics for non-profits, government agencies, corporations, and universities throughout the country.
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John Jackson IV, MCRP
Senior Program Manager U.S. Transportation Programs Center for Sustainable Energy Bio: John Jackson is an urban planner experienced in transportation planning, medium-duty electric vehicle (EV) conversion practices for transit agencies, and project management. A Senior Program Manager for U.S. Transportation Programs, he oversees two East Coast programs that provide rebates for residents purchasing light-duty passenger EVs. He has over 6 years of direct experience with urban and transportation planning, clean transportation, climate change policy, public policy, and project and program management. John has an M.S. in Community and Regional Planning from the University of Oregon and a B.A. in Geography from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.”
Randal Kaufman
Sales Director Black & Veatch Randal Kaufman is Sales Director for Black & Veatch’s Transformative Technologies business. With over 15 years of experience in the electrical power industry, Randal has expertise in electric vehicle charging infrastructure and complimentary energy delivery systems, data centers, distributed generation, energy management, power quality, and backup systems. He also spent two years in the stationary fuel cell power generation business, with special focus on application engineering and product development. His previous work experience includes ABB, ClearEdge Power, and Schneider Electric. Randal holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from California State University-Chico, and an MBA from the University of California-Irvine. Randal is currently working on resilient, zero emission, efficient, available, and secure energy infrastructure to support clean transportation and facility power applications, including hydrogen generation and fueling infrastructure.
Charlie Ker
Senior Director, Business Development (NA) Westport Fuel Systems Charlie joined Vancouver-based Westport Fuel Systems in the Fall of 2021 after more than a decade with Cummins Westport Inc. (CWI). At CWI Charlie initially oversaw the rapid growth of natural gas trucks within the North American refuse sector before focusing his efforts closer to home as CWI’s Canadian General Manager for both bus and truck markets. Prior to Cummins, Charlie held numerous sales and marketing positions at Westport Innovations where he led the initial launch of natural-gas truck programs at the Port of LA and Long Beach as well as in Canada along the Hwy 401 corridor. A graduate of the University of Western Ontario, Charlie is past Board Chair of the Canadian Natural Gas Vehicle Alliance.
Scot Laudicina
Sales & Business Development DANNAR Scot has held multiple Senior Account level positions within the Technology Industry since1996.While his endeavors have always focused on customer engagement, both within and leading teams, he has leveraged those skills across several types of products and solutions. After studying Stage Lighting at Indiana University, Scot began his career in the automotive industry. With the success from his automotive days, Scot turned his attention to a position at Imaging Office Systems. It was during this time that Scot obtained several industry certifications in sales leadership and the enterprise content space. Over a span of two-plus decades, Scot’s career moved through the technology industry in roles such as Regional Director, Sales at Imaging Office Systems, Practice Principal for Mail and Imaging at Pitney Bowes Management Services, Managing Director for Americas in the Communication Delivery platform a Pitney Bowes Software, Associate Vice President at MetaSource and a few other roles at companies including Velocity Technology Solutions and Precisely software. Due to a personal interest in the automotive industry and environmental concerns, it was in 2015 that Scot learned of DANNAR’s Mobile Power Station through colleagues and his involvement in the Muncie community. Realizing that at the core of the MPS is technology and software/hardware systems, Scot easily blended his business acumen and personal interests together. Scot stepped into the role of both Sales and Business Development for DANNAR in 2021. He leads the domestic team, developing systems for continued customer engagement while delivering on business strategic goals.
Justin Loyear
Business Development Cummins Alternative Technologies Justin Loyear leads the Business Development for Cummins Alternative Technologies in the western United States. Justin is in his 6th year at Cummins, currently focused on supporting Cummins' Destination Zero pledge by consulting with customers on the future of powertrains. Based in Fresno, California, Justin’s territory covers the 11 states from Colorado to California plus Alaska and Hawaii. Justin specializes in Cummins near-zero natural gas engines, hydrogen, gasoline, propane, and electric powertrains. Justin has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of California, Davis and a juris doctorate from the San Joaquin College of Law.
Marc Manning
Senior Program Manager Jacobs Marc Manning is the Senior Program Manager for Jacobs. He is helping to develop the strategy and support clients for the Green Fleets Practice. Prior to Jacobs, Marc led the development of short- and long-term strategies to deploy zero-emission buses (ZEBs) at two of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States. In his tenure with CTA and LA Metro, Marc supported the procurement of over $1B in transit buses using CNG, diesel, and electric powertrains and led large teams responsible for engineering and warranty support for the life of the vehicles. Throughout his 17-year automotive engineering career, Marc has also participated in various committees to study, advance, and accelerate the adoption of zero-emission buses. He helped develop the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Bus Procurement Guidelines, supported various transit research and planning projects, and helped develop the SAE International electric vehicle charging standard (SAE3105). Prior to his public transit career, Marc worked in product development for the market leader in transit bus engines (Cummins). In this capacity, he worked across a wide array of engineering functions—such as manufacturing, product development, and service support—with a specialty in combustion, performance, and emissions development.
Keith Malone
Government and Communications California Fuel Cell Partnership Keith Malone brings more than 30 years of public relations and public affairs experience to the California Fuel Cell Partnership, a public private partnership working to further commercialization of zero emission, hydrogen mobility. In addition to communications, he leads education and outreach efforts to policy makers, and represents CaFCP with the press and at events. Prior to joining CaFCP, Keith helped multicultural nonprofit organizations, elected officials and political candidates communicate and build relationships with their stakeholders. A third generation Angeleno, Keith received his bachelor of arts degree from Occidental College and his master of arts from USC’s Annenberg School for Communication.
Parker Meeks
Chief Strategy Officer Hyzon Motors Parker joined Hyzon Motors as Chief Strategy Officer in June 2021. His experience spans traditional energy, decarbonization / energy transition, infrastructure and transportation, serving clients and leading operations across 4 continents, 15+ countries and 25+ US states. Parker most recently held full P&L responsibility for a nationwide 900-person, $150M revenue design and construction management business in the infrastructure, water resources and energy transition / climate change end markets within TRC, a 6,000-person $1 billion revenue firm. Prior to TRC he was a Partner with McKinsey & Company, where he was a global leader in McKinsey’s Energy and Capital Productivity & Infrastructure Practices. Additionally, he was the Managing Partner of McKinsey’s Houston office. Parker has a BS in Electrical Engineering from Columbia University, an MBA from Rice University, and serves on the Advisory Board for Rice University’s Chemical Engineering department.
Marten Mills
Business Development Manager Western States, U.S. Gain a division of U.S. Venture, Inc. Marten Mills brings a broad range of expertise to fleets transitioning or expanding in the alternative fuel industry can. In his current role as Business Development Manager, Marten works alongside organizations to determine how alternative fuel can positively impact their sustainability goals. Vehicles, infrastructure, funding, policy and training are all important elements to a successful alternative fuel journey and part of what Marten brings to his customers. Prior to U.S. Gain, Marten spent 12 years designing compressed natural gas and Hydrogen fueling stations. Clients included refuse companies, logistics and distributions companies, public utilities, transit agencies and municipalities. Marten is known for his technical infrastructure knowledge, but also relationship building thanks to his customer-first mindset.
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Peter Moulton
Peter served as Washington’s bioenergy policy coordinator from 2008 to 2021, as well as policy sector manager for the State Energy Office at the Department of Commerce, before retiring from the state last fall. He recently joined the board of Drive Electric Washington, and continues to advise a wide range of clients on transportation electrification and bioenergy projects and policies.
Tim Niles
Regional Services Manager Energy Northwest (EN) Tim Nies is the Regional Services Manager for Energy Northwest (EN). His employment with EN began in October of 2018. In his role he provides regional outreach and Business and Operations /Maintenance Services to utilities in the Northwest region. He is the former General Manager of Franklin PUD and has over 25 years’ experience in Finance and Management. He has a BS in Accounting. He is also, the chairman of the Hydrogen Subcommittee as part of the Mid-Columbia Energy Initiative.
Jonathan Norris
Lead Transportation and Energy Consultant ICF Jonathan Norris is a Lead Transportation and Energy Consultant at ICF with a focus on helping clients understand and plan for zero- and near-zero emission vehicle deployment and infrastructure development. He has advised several types of stakeholders on topics related to transportation decarbonization and electrification, including fleets, electric utilities, ports and port authorities, airlines, non-profits, and local, state, and federal government agencies. Jonathan’s support to these stakeholders takes multiple forms, including fleet transition planning, infrastructure development planning, policy research and analysis, readiness planning, financial and business case analysis, and strategy. Jonathan is a two-time alum of Ohio University (Go Bobcats!), a native of Southeastern Ohio, and a current resident of Los Angeles, California.
Michael Patterson
CEO & Chairman Battle Motors Michael Patterson is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for disruption. In the past 20 years he has started five software and hardware companies that have been acquired or taken public. Patterson founded Battle Motors and acquired 75-year-old legacy truck manufacturer Crane Carrier in January 2021 and has since assembled an amazing team that has quadrupled production and launched an Electric Vehicle line of trucks to complement the diesel and CNG offerings. Battle Motors is a company committed to accelerating the world's transition to sustainable energy through manufacturing the most durable and performance-driven electric zero emission trucks with a suite of the most high-tech utilitarian software. The legacy of blazing new trails carries on as Battle Motors is rapidly capturing market share and positioned to lead the way starting with the electrification of the vocational truck market. Michael has built companies from scratch in both hardware and software markets and solved and launched complex solutions for auto manufacturers, enterprises, mobile carriers, and financial institutions. Patterson’s previous companies include: Founder of Romeo Power and led the team as CEO and Chairman to the listing on the NYSE (RMO, NYSE), Founder and CEO of InAuth (acquired by American Express), Founder and CEO of Smobile (acquired by Juniper), Founder and CEO of FedCel (acquired by Profitline).
Noelle Parlier
Director Product Planning & Strategy Kenworth Truck Company She has been with PACCAR since 2005, starting at the PACCAR Technical Center on the engine development team. Noelle has held positions of increasing responsibility within engineering at the PACCAR Technical Center, Kenworth Truck Company, and most recently as Chief Engineer of PACCAR Australia. Noelle earned her undergraduate degree from Seattle University in Electrical & Electronic Engineering and her MBA from Eastern New Mexico University. Noelle is a certified Professional Engineer, is PgMP certified, and is a CDL holder.
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Travis Ridgeway
Lower Columbia Region Mgr. Weyerhaeuser Co Travis graduated from Oregon State University with a BS in Forest Engineering. He has worked in the timber industry across the PNW in various roles in logging and export operations. He is currently the Lower Columbia Region Mgr. for Weyerhaeuser Co. in WA state.
Evan Rosenberg
Senior Manager, Business Development SRECTrade Evan is considered a leading authority on how to define, build, and manage a successful strategy for the management and monetization of environmental commodities related to clean transportation fuels and renewable electricity generation. Evan builds and manages client relationships, leads policy and regulatory engagement, and supports the growth of SREC Trade’s Clean Transportation business. Prior to his current role, Evan managed energy and climate programs for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LAMetro), where he successfully managed the largest public fleet transition to renewable natural gas in the country and In 2016, Evan was recognized by the Association of Energy Engineers as the Young Energy Professional of the Year.
Philip Saunders
Deputy Division Director Logistics and Emergency City of Seattle Additionally, serving as the Green Fleet Program City of Seattle, Department of Finance & Administrative Services.
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Morgan B. Schafer
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality Morgan B. Schafer, MA, MPH has been working for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality for three years. She utilizes her analytical and public health skills to examine approaches to policy for alternative fuels, open burning, local air quality planning and grant administration.
Gary Schmidt
Senior VP Sales & Marketing Motiv Gary joined Motiv in June 2021 as Senior VP of Sales and Marketing. Gary brings 20 years of experience in technology and mobile in operations, sales, marketing, developing and selling complex global solutions. Prior to joining Motiv, Gary was Senior VP of OEM Connect Solutions at Zonar where he owned all of the OEM and Partner networks worldwide. Gary was instrumental in bringing in multimillion dollar OEM contracts. Before Zonar, Gary was the Senior VP at Omni where he built and delivered an IoT software solution stack for enterprise customer looking for a SaaS based workflow offering. Gary began his career at Sprint and quickly moved through the ranks as a thought leader and top sales executive. Gary earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Washington State University.
Rebecca Sial
Solution Engineer StreetLight Data Inc. Rebecca Sial is a Solution Engineer with StreetLight Data Inc., helping transportation professionals leverage the power of big data analytics to better understand changing travel behaviors and inform transportation planning decisions. Prior to joining StreetLight, Rebecca worked for eight years as a Planner in the Richmond area, focusing on GIS applications for planning projects, data analysis, and project completion. Rebecca holds an MS in Urban and Regional Planning from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BS in Urban Studies from the University of Pittsburgh.
Daniel Sirotzki
Solution Engineer StreetLight Data Inc. Rebecca Sial is a Solution Engineer with StreetLight Data Inc., helping transportation professionals leverage the power of big data analytics to better understand changing travel behaviors and inform transportation planning decisions. Prior to joining StreetLight, Rebecca worked for eight years as a Planner in the Richmond area, focusing on GIS applications for planning projects, data analysis, and project completion. Rebecca holds an MS in Urban and Regional Planning from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BS in Urban Studies from the University of Pittsburgh.
Angela Song
Portfolio Manager Transportation Electrification Seattle City Light Angela is the Transportation Electrification Portfolio Manager at Seattle City Light. She is designing, implementing, and managing transportation electrification projects. Before Seattle City Light, Angela was an Air Quality Specialist at the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. She also managed the Western Washington Clean Cities Coalition to implement strategies and programs to reduce transportation emissions. Angela holds a B.B.A. from the University of Missouri - Kansas City and serves as the Vice President for Women of Electric Vehicles.
Sam Spofforth
Clean Cities Project Leader National Renewable Energy Laboratory & Vehicle Technologies Office Sam Spofforth is a Clean Cities Project Leader at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory on assignment to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office Transportation Integration team. His role involves collaborating with DOE, national labs, and Clean Cities coalitions to help the Clean Cities Coalition Network maximize its impact implementing alternative fuels, advanced vehicles, and fuel-saving strategies. Prior to joining NREL, Sam worked as the founding Executive Director of Clean Fuels Ohio (CFO), a Clean Cities coalition, for twenty years. As a statewide nonprofit, CFO grew to become the largest of the more than 75 Clean Cities coalitions. He was named the Midwest Clean Cities Coordinator of the Year in 2004, national coordinator of the year in 2007, and inducted into the Clean Cities Hall of Fame in 2011. His peers voted to award him with the Benjamin Watson Inspirational Award in 2015.
Jeremy Stewart
TBD Jeremy Stewart has spent the last 15 years building utility programs by quantifying the value of customer actions and using benefits to build programs that benefit customers. Work has included planning, analyzing, and implementing energy conservation, demand response, and electric transportation programs. Current projects include a grid integrated water heater pilot, school bus micro grid project, and port electrification.
James Telson
Director of Innovation & Sustainability Compass Supply Chain Solutions LLC James Telson is the Director of Innovation & Sustainability for Compass Supply Chain Solutions LLC. With a background in engineering & project management, James works closely with Lazer Spot Inc. and other industry partners to apply for incentives, manage projects, and deploy electric yard terminal tractors throughout the United States.
Michael Terreri
EV Product Manager AssetWorks Mike Terreri has supported the development of some of the nation’s largest alternative fuel vehicle and infrastructure projects. He has worked as a consultant to global truck OEMs, charging station providers, fleets and public agencies. Mike was a contributing author to the NAFA Sustainable Fleet Management Certification curriculum and has been published or featured in publications like Government Fleet Magazine, School Transportation News, Food Logistics, Charged Fleet and ACTNews. At AssetWorks, Mike provides deep subject-matter-expertise and technical oversight for EV initiatives while also supporting AssetWorks’ fleet customers directly.
Dr. Pete Thimmaiah
Project Manager Jacobs Dr. Pete Thimmaiah is a project manager for Zero-Emission Transportation initiative and a strategist for developing global Green Fleets Practice at Jacobs. Prior to joining Jacobs, Pete managed a core team to deliver the B.C. government’s $50 million CLEANBC programs on zero-emission fleets. Pete led the Go Electric Fleets Program, Commercial Vehicle Incentive Program, and the West Coast Electric Fleets Program. His focus has been on modelling procurement, ROI analysis and life cycle analysis, including community engagement and outreach. Pete has a Ph.D. in Alternative Energy Engineering and has several scientific publications related to clean energy technologies. He has led joint collaborative research on fleet electrification barriers, trends, and opportunities, including the life cycle analysis of zero-emission vehicles.
John Thornton
President CleanFuture, Inc. John Thornton is president and founder of CleanFuture, Inc., an industry leading company connecting clean vehicle fleet customers with low carbon intensity fuels, serving both on the supply and demand side in California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (“LCFS”), Oregon’s Clean Fuels Program (“CFP”), Washington’s Clean Fuels Program (“CFP”), and other emerging clean fuel standards. CleanFuture provides full-service low carbon consulting to its clients including fleet efficiency; low carbon fuels; clean vehicles and vehicle technologies; and monetization strategies. CleanFuture has worked for over a decade to improve the efficiency of a wide range of vehicle fleets.
Matt Tracy
Site Superintendent Metro South Transfer Station Matt Tracy is the Site Superintendent at the Metro South Transfer Station. Located in Oregon City Oregon, the Metro South station serves over 270,000 self-haul and route customers while processing over 320,000+ tons of material annually. With over 27 years in the Waste Management industry, Matt has worked with regional waste hauling companies as they have explored clean/renewable diesel and alternative fuel technologies. Between 2009 and 2012, Matt managed a region-wide EPA/DEQ grant for the retrofit installation of diesel particulate filters on refuse trucks operating in the Portland Metro region. This grant provided retrofit filters for over 119 refuse collection vehicles some of which were decades old. Along with the clean diesel work, Matt has also worked with various local and regional partners on alternative fuel development projects including CNG integration and Wastewater Treatment Plant AD transportation fuel development. Prior to his role as Vice President of CWCCC, Matt served for 5 years as the President of the Board of Directors for the Columbia Willamette Clean Cities Coalition. Matt is also an elected official and serves as a City Councilor for the City of Gladstone, Oregon.
Bonnie Trowbridge
Executive Director Drive Clean Colorado Bonnie Trowbridge is the Executive Director of Drive Clean Colorado where she leads the charge toward achieving breathable air for everyone by advancing clean transportation and equitable mobility. Bonnie is the co-chair for the Women of EVs Front Range chapter, the market development lead for Zeem Solutions, and is a Board member of the Colorado Department of Transportation’s Transit Enterprise Board. Her past experience includes nonprofit development and fundraising, grant writing and management, and events management, and she spent 11 years in public relations and marketing for Lightning eMotors, manufacturer of electric powertrains for medium- and heavy-duty buses and trucks, where she was instrumental in growing that company from a start-up to a thriving manufacturer. Her experience includes program management for CALSTART, a non-profit organization working to commercialize clean and efficient transportation solutions, where she led events such as a California policy summit, industry leader workshops, and utility engagement programs; and work as a development director for nonprofits in Denver and Washington, D.C.
Anagha Uppal
Project Manager EMPOWER Project Anagha is the project manager for the EMPOWER project and City of Seattle Drayage project at CWCC. EMPOWER is a DOE-funded equity-focused program to persuade thousands of workplaces across the country to install EV chargers for their employees.
Mike Usen
Electromobility & Resiliency Lead DKS Associates Mike leads the rapidly-growing electric vehicle charging infrastructure planning and design practice for DKS Associates, an employee-owned transportation engineering firm with offices up and down the west coast. Mike is passionate about assisting sustainability managers, transportation agencies and fleet operators reduce emissions and save operating costs by planning conversion of their operations to electric traction power. Mike’s team has prepared vehicle electrification roadmaps and fleet electrification plans for South San Francisco, Sacramento, Seattle, Island County, Walla Walla, Fremont, Berkeley, UC Davis, Oakland, Dublin, King County, Metro Transit and are currently involved in numerous other vehicle electrification efforts.
Charlie Vogelheim
Auto Enthusiast | Podcast Host | Pilot Vogelheim Ventures - The Flying Car Charlie Vogelheim is an auto industry veteran whose 35+ year career incudes Executive/Editorial roles at Kelley Blue Book, J.D. Power, Car&Driver and Motor Trend. He is currently the Host/Pilot of “The Flying Car” bearing witness to the transformation of transportation. Charlie travels extensively worldwide attending automotive shows, test drives and conferences. Though he is an automotive industry enthusiast, he is deeply engaged in the future of mobility as Silicon Valley reinvents the wheel. A Gonzaga University graduate, Charlie also worked for the FAA, has a commercial pilot’s license and spent several years flying seaplanes in the Alaskan bush. He is enthusiastically anticipating the reality of a flying car.
Oliver Weilandt
Chief Financial Officer Battle Motors Oliver Weilandt is an experienced leader in the trucking industry, an activist CFO, and a passionate intrapreneur. Driven by the pursuit of new opportunities in the EV space, he takes pride in transforming existing organization and processes to capture value at the core and at the new frontiers of our industry. As Chief Financial Officer, his priorities are to transform Battle Motors' financial, procurement, supply, HR, and legal functions and processes to achieve profitable growth, and to ready Battle Motors from a reporting and compliance standpoint for its next steps. In addition to his primary role, he is also a tireless supporter of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and brings an international background to our team. Oliver previously worked at Daimler Truck North America, where he held a CFO role in the aftermarket business unit
Alison Wiley
Founder Electric School Bus Newsletter Alison Wiley is the founder of the Electric School Bus Newsletter, and a cofounder of both the Electric Bus Learning Project and Women Accelerating School Bus Electrification (WASBE). She has 16 years experience in low carbon transportation, and six years experience in electric bus adoption, with a focus on equity. Alison also works at Forth, where she collaborates with school districts, nonprofits, public and private sectors to accelerate the transition from fossil-fueled school buses to electric. Alison holds a B.A. from Wake Forest University and an M.S. from California State University, Fullerton. She lives in Portland, Oregon.
Stephen Whaley
Director of Autogas Business Development Propane Education & Research Council Stephen Whaley is the Director of Autogas Business Development for the Propane Education & Research Council. Whaley manages the over-the-road market portfolio for PERC. He is responsible for growing propane autogas market share in on-highway light-, medium- and heavy-duty vehicle markets. He focuses on new product research and development, product launches, maintenance and growth in existing market segments, as well as potential new market development opportunities. Before joining PERC in January of 2020, Whaley ran his own clean transportation consulting company. His background also includes eastern U.S. regional sales manager for Agility Fuel Solutions where he developed class 7 and 8 vehicle fleet markets for natural gas. Whaley was formerly a director of business development for Roush CleanTech and performed Autogas research and business development for Blossman Propane. He has a bachelor’s degree in industrial arts education from Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University and a master’s degree in industrial education from Clemson University. He has lifetime postsecondary teaching credentials from the State of California.
Keith Wilson
TITAN Freight Systems, Inc. President & CEO titanfs.com Mr. Wilson has been president & CEO of TITAN Freight Systems, a regional transportation company with operations throughout Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and British Columbia since 2004. His company is a leader in the implementation of Artificial Intelligence and Edge Computing to meet Vision Zero goals. This cutting-edge technology has resulted in zero injury accidents in more than three years and millions of miles traveled. TITAN is one of the first private carriers in Oregon to use Renewable Diesel, a second-generation renewable that reduces GHG emissions by up to 60 percent. Used as the energy source for the majority of its operations, Renewable Diesel has enabled TITAN to become one of the lowest carbon footprint carriers in the United States. Mr. Wilson obtained his Bachelor of Science in Business at Oregon State University and a Master of Business Administration at the University of Portland with an emphasis in transportation, technology, and new product design and positioning. As an International Road Federation member and a US High Speed Rail board member, he works with city, state, and federal officials to advance technology to put the “RAPID” back in rapid transit. He and his wife Katherine and children, Lilianna and Noah, live in beautiful Portland, Oregon.
Chris White
Senior Manager Frontier Energy Chris White has been with Frontier Energy since 2004. As a Senior Manager, she directs programs and projects that introduce new technologies and ideas that help businesses and residents be more efficiency with energy, water, refuse, and transportation. A former owner of a bowling alley, Chris brings practical experience to the challenges that small businesses face with new technologies and a changing workforce. She uses this knowledge to help clients identify programs, strategies and incentives, and implement pilot programs that have the sought-after triple win. Outside of work, she’s involved in many volunteer activities and in May was named her small city’s Person of the Year. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn on talk about equity, diversity, efficiency, and how to improve your bowling average.
Kendell Whitehead
Western Region lead Heavy Vehicle Charging Solutions ABB Kendell Whitehead is the Western Region lead for Heavy Vehicle Charging Solutions with ABB EV Infrastructure in North America, and is based in Phoenix, Arizona. Kendell has been at ABB for four years and with the electric vehicle infrastructure group for the prior three. He has supported the technical roll out of major infrastructure projects ranging from public stations to test labs as well as transit sites and for heavy duty EV fleets. Kendell has many hours in the field and has engaged in interoperability testing, in addition to his experience conducting webinars and training sessions for technical and non-technical audiences across the public and fleet infrastructure deployment spectrum. Kendell holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Arkansas.
Luke Whittemore
Transportation Electrification Engineer Portland General Electric Luke is a Transportation Electrification Engineer on the Grid Edge Solutions team at Portland General Electric. He has a mechanical engineering degree from Oregon State University, and over 5 years of experience in the utility industry. Luke is the Lead Engineer on PGE's Fleet Partner program, providing consulting services, engineering studies, site designs, and cost estimates to fleet customers. He is also a subject matter expert supporting the development and implementation of new PGE transportation electrification programs. Since 2019, Luke has been supporting PGE's own fleet electrification project by developing the recommendation to leadership for PGE's corporate goal to electrify 60% of its fleet by 2030, and designing the charging infrastructure installations at PGE facilities.
Cory-Ann Wind
Oregon Clean Fuels Program Manager Oregon Department of Environmental Quality Cory-Ann Wind works for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality as the Oregon Clean Fuels Program Manager. Cory has worked for ODEQ for over 28 years, the last 11 in fuels, transportation, and climate policy. Cory holds a B.S. in BioResources Engineering from Oregon State University.
Emily Wolf
Sr. Program Coordinator & Policy Analyst Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC) Emily Wolfe leads MEC’s policy and advocacy efforts and is the Project Coordinator for their terminal truck electrification project. Prior to joining MEC in 2019, Emily worked at a health information technology corporation for over six years spending three on their benefits and wellness team. She managed multiple programs and events for employees all over the world. However, she decided to change her career path and received a master’s degree in Social Work in 2019.
Deepti Yenireddy