Adam investigates new programs, opportunities, and solutions for ICAST and identifies and analyzes the available and necessary data to determine their viability. He also provides technical and data analysis in a range of areas including ICAST’s demand-side management program for Rocky Mountain Power, its U.S. Dept. of Energy-funded program to scale heat pumps in multifamily housing, and its Carbon Credits Project.Adam has experience as a community organizer for environmental and sustainability issues and is passionate about environmental justice and affordable transit. In his spare time, he is an avid hiker who hopes to one day complete his bucket list of all 63 US National Parks (including those in the Pacific and Caribbean territories!), although he gets just as excited to play another round of one of his favorite board games. Adam received his Bachelor’s in Environmental Policy from Washington University in St. Louis.  

New Mexico Energy Efficiency Account Manager Amanda Schadegg has been in the commercial HVAC industry for over 5 years, most recently in sales as a Manufacturer’s Representative. Before that, she worked for a non-profit business with a focus on student loans. She completed some schooling at the University of Phoenix. Amanda spent some of her childhood in low-income housing and has enjoyed volunteering at the local food pantry to help give back to her community. Helping the underserved population is what first interested her to join the ICAST team. Amanda is excited to use her prior experience to further enhance the ICAST New Mexico team by focusing on energy efficiency retrofits. She is an avid cook who enjoys trying out new recipes and a huge animal lover. When not cooking you might find her enjoying the outdoors camping or fishing with her family.

As a part of the Business Development team, Amavie Clement works with both the Sales team & multiple other departments to coordinate and maintain project information, customer communication & relationships.  Amavie brings a broad background in both the sales field -- B2B and B2C, as well as experience as an Energy Auditor leading a weatherization team. He holds a Master of Arts in Climate Change and Global Sustainability from SIT Graduate Institute. Amavie enjoys working for a company that provides energy-efficient and sustainable technologies to underserved communities to help improve their lives. When not working, he enjoys watching soccer and traveling to experience other cultures, food, and traditions. He also has a strong love of music and enjoys the therapeutic effects it brings to life.

Amy Smith brought over 20 years of construction administration experience to the ICAST team. As a Process Analyst, she works with all departments to ensure that projects progress smoothly, addressing any complications that arise to ensure the project meets deadlines and remains within specified budgets. Additionally, Amy watches project trends to see where difficulties might arise, then works with the appropriate departments to take steps to resolve the issue. Prior to her current position at ICAST, she was a Project manager for 1 ½ years as well. Amy enjoys working to help the underserved while also taking measures to reduce their carbon footprint. In Amy’s spare time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, camping, and fishing. She is also an AVID sports fan (Go Utes, Broncos, Jazz, and Dodgers!).

Angie Healey brings an extensive 20+ year administrative background to ICAST, including over 7 years of sales support experience. Although ICAST is a completely new industry for her, learning of ICAST’s mission is what drew her to the job. As a mom of 2, she has always felt compelled to give back to her local community, supporting those organizations that assist low-income families. Angie was born in Washington D.C., raised in Maryland, and has made Temecula, CA home for 18 years. In her downtime, she enjoys cooking, traveling, spending time with her boyfriend and kids, and loves watching football & hockey.

Audrey Knox comes to ICAST with a Project Manager background and is passionate about sustainability education and action. She is dedicated to supporting climate literacy and action, with over a decade of experience managing the implementation of nonprofit environmental programs, designing and facilitating professional development training workshops, and writing sustainability curriculum. Audrey holds a BA in Sociology from West Chester University where she discovered her passion for identifying the motivating factors that help transfer knowledge into tangible behaviors. In her spare time, she can be found chasing after her toddler son or experimenting in the kitchen.

Brad has spent 6+ years working in HR in the construction industry before joining ICAST. He received his Bachelor’s in Business Administration from The University of Colorado in Colorado Springs. Brad joined ICAST because he identified with the mission of the company. When not at work, he spends his time playing video games, hiking, and snowboarding.

Brandon Pavlakis works as a Junior Project Manager at ICAST, bringing to the team a strong background in management, sales, and renewable energy. With a proven track record in leadership and a dedication to sustainable solutions, he effectively drives business outcomes and manages energy efficiency programs. Outside of work, Brandon is passionate about cooking, attending concerts, and traveling to discover new destinations.

Americorps VISTA Cassandra Kraft works as the Marketing Research and Content Development VISTA at ICAST. Cassandra’s extensive background and education bring valuable knowledge to the team. They hold a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with a Renewable Energy minor and a master's degree in Natural Resources and Energy Policy from the Colorado School of Mines. In their spare time, they may be backpacking, hiking, snowboarding, or woodworking. Cassandra also spends time caring for their pet corn snake, dozens of baby bonsai trees, and many indoor/house plants.

Curt supports ICAST’s business development efforts by calling on potential customers who are undertaking green upgrades to their multifamily properties. Prior to joining ICAST, he was Vice President of a nationally prominent real estate lender, specializing in multifamily financing, including low income communities. Curt has a Master’s degree in Finance and Capital Markets, and a Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate and Construction Management from the University of Denver.

Dakota Harmon is a building science professional who has joined the ICAST team as an Energy Modeler. Previously, Dakota traveled the country working for a nationally recognized weatherization training center. In this role, he worked as a trainer, teaching courses and seminars on all things weatherization and building science. When not leading courses his travels took him to various states to assist with their WAP programs, QA monitoring, and reporting processes. Dakota is a graduate of Emory & Henry University, where he played defensive end on the football team and met his wife, Natasha. Before entering the weatherization field, he worked as a public-school teacher/coach and pursued a mixed martial arts career in his 20s. In his free time, he enjoys surfing, completing long solo hikes on the Appalachian Trail, and spending quality time with his wife and daughter.

Dan received his BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Colorado, Boulder and his MBA from the University of Colorado, Denver. He is a seasoned leader of people, partners and projects with years of experience in the environmental, energy services and renewable energy industries. Dan has served in numerous roles in Program Management, Business Development and Operations and Customer Support. Working for a nonprofit providing economic, environmental and social benefits aligns perfectly with his mindset for the 21^st century. Dan loves books and music, and spends as much time outdoors as he can hiking, skiing and playing tennis.

While studying environmental conservation at Madison College in Wisconsin, Dan was introduced to the field of Sustainable Development and saw that the best way to preserve the natural world was to guide future infrastructure in ways that maximized energy and resource efficiency. In Chicago, he monitored construction near underground utilities, and in Michigan he worked for Habitat for Humanity doing rebuilds of distressed properties, revitalizing them into Energy Star Standard homes, and other community-focused projects. ICAST’s triple bottom line perfectly captures his guiding principles of positive impact socially, economically, and environmentally. He is personally and professionally interested in arcology, passive architecture, urban agriculture, permaculture, and historic preservation. Back in Chicago, he enjoys following current events, cinema, mixology, and historical fencing.

Danielle Jordan has spent the majority of her 30-year career in the construction industry, specifically in the residential new home building market and in HVAC service. She has brought her vast experience in Construction Administration and Project Coordination to the ICAST team. In her free time, Danielle enjoys climbing mountains, weight training, creating new recipes for her food blog, and nature photography.

David Burnside joined ICAST as a Jr. Energy Modeler. He brings over two years of experience in energy modeling and is excited to contribute to ICAST’s mission of sustainable solutions. David has a background in data analytics and energy efficiency, focusing on improving energy performance in multifamily buildings. In his spare time, David enjoys making music, staying active with weightlifting, and indulging his passion for Marvel comics, football, and UFC.

Director of Sales David Shirey brings over 20 years of sales leadership and team-building expertise to the ICAST team. His extensive experience includes transforming underperforming teams into top performers through innovative sales strategies. David is the author of the business book "Rare Confidence" and is recognized for his expertise in personal and professional development. David holds a bachelor's degree from Ohio University. He is married, has a son, and is an avid Pittsburgh sports fan.

Derek Ballentine brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the ICAST Energy Auditing/Quality Control Inspection team. He most recently served as a New Construction Manager/QA Inspector & HERS Rater for a Tennessee solar contractor and currently holds certification as a RESNET Certified Home Energy Rater (HERS Rater). Since 2011 he has held certifications in numerous energy and inspection disciplines and has been a green building consultant for multiple companies and organizations. Derek has completed over 8,000 energy audits and has tested, inspected, and rated thousands of structures for code compliance including HERS Ratings, Energy Star, Zero Energy Ready Homes, Environments for Living, and EarthCraft. He received a BA from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville in Interdisciplinary Studies-Urban Studies. Residing in South Knoxville, TN with his wife Meredith and their two dogs, Walker & Lulabelle, Derek enjoys ardently cheering for his beloved NC State Wolfpack. He is also a talented musician, singer, and self-taught guitar player who plays in shows in the area. Be sure to ask him about his right wrist!

Policy Coordinator, Destiny Galeano, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Policy, Law, and Society from Unity College in Unity, Maine. Prior to holding this position, she spent a year as an AmeriCorps VISTA with ICAST.  She hopes to use her growing skills to keep ICAST up to date on state and federal legislation, provide analytical support, and discover funding opportunities for underserved communities. Destiny is originally from Connecticut and in her free time enjoys camping and paddle boarding with her dog, trying new recipes, and traveling.

Staff Account Elizabeth Davis brings nearly twenty years of accounting systems experience to the ICAST team. With an extensive background in both construction and grant accounting, she’s a valuable member of the accounting team. Elizabeth holds an MBA in Business Administration from Wayland Baptist University. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, she now resides on an island off the coast of Maine after spending 9 years in Alaska. Elizabeth has three adult children and four grandchildren. During her spare time, she and her husband can be found repairing and refurbishing their 150-year-old cottage or watching NASCAR races.

Erika Michels graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a degree in Arts and Communications.  After moving to Las Vegas, she took on a position with an experiential marketing exhibit house.  She worked in sales for the live event/tradeshow/convention industry for over ten years.  Having handled events for many nonprofits, Erika knew she wanted to integrate her sales experience with an organization that lends itself to making the world a better place and that’s what compelled her to join ICAST.  In her free times, she enjoys spending time with her son, reading tarot cards, and taking long hikes with her Siberian Husky.

Grants Coordinator, Erin Carpenter, has a background in nonprofit work and sustainability, including three terms with Green Iowa AmeriCorps. She holds a bachelor's degree from Iowa State University in Landscape Architecture and Environmental Studies. Passionate about making sustainable living more accessible, Erin is eager to support ICAST's grants process. In her free time, she stays busy teaching taekwondo and spoiling her cats.

ICAST Editor & Writer Evelyn Grey holds both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Clemson University. Previously, she taught undergraduate composition courses and worked as a writer and assignment editor in the EdTech industry. Working for ICAST allows her to bring together her editorial and writerly expertise with her passion for sustainability and environmental justice. When she’s not at work, you can find her birding, reading, gardening, or playing Dungeons and Dragons.

Francisco Martinez-Paredes is an ICAST Sales Coordinator. Their experience includes education in elementary schools in underserved communities, contracting, and business development. They enjoy working with a team to make a positive impact on climate change and contribute to sustainable development. In their spare time, they enjoy practicing yoga, jogging, and spending time with friends & family.

ICAST Energy Data Analyst Hailey Eslick brings a diverse background to the ICAST team including previous experience in energy consulting for a building contractor. She is also a big animal lover and spent time working in veterinary medicine as well. Hailey holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Health from BYU – Idaho and explains that energy efficiency and building improvements are an essential part of Public Health. Hailey and her two cats Lila and Yamato, recently moved to the Seattle, Washington area and spends her free time reading, enjoying movies, playing video games, taking long walks, and exploring her love of coffee.

Hali Scoggins serves as the Executive Assistant to the Chief Operating Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, ensuring seamless executive operations. With over nine years of experience, Hali brings her nearly decade-long experience to supporting senior-level leaders and their teams. Her expansive knowledge and background are displayed as she excels in managing communications, scheduling, travel, and maintaining confidentiality. Residing in Mississippi, Hali enjoys reading, video games, and spending time with her family.

Ian handles the wide array of consulting projects, including PACE, RAD, and EPC (Energy Performance Contracting), that ICAST takes on. Ian has a background in solar installation and design, and holds a NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification. He received his B.S. in Energy-Focused Environmental Engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder and has extensive programming and energy modeling experience. Ian is an avid biker and speaks Spanish and Portuguese.

Ian is a proud graduate of Ohio University, from which he acquired a B.A. in Communication and Technical Management. In 2021 he added to his CV three certificates in Geographic Information Systems from Front Range Community College. Ian's technical skills and attention to detail make him well-suited to data synthesis and management, which at ICAST neatly combine with his interests in sustainability and equity. When he's not busy digging for data, you can find him climbing the tallest hill around.

Ivan is the Director of Energy Efficiency Programs at ICAST and has a vast background in project and program management from government and private sector experience. He is a firm believer in what role energy reduction, paired with renewable energy and ESS systems, plays in our impact and the change that results from making minor modifications in how we utilize and produce energy. Ivan has a passion for helping teams grow and overcome challenges, focusing on individual, personal, and professional growth, and how continued development positively impacts an organization. He has a BS in Business Administration with a focus on Project Management and is currently in an MBA program. When not working, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife and 3 children enjoying nature, where you can find them camping and hiking! He has a passion for gardening and living sustainably with minimal environmental impact.

Jamall Coleman serves as a Junior Energy Auditor/Inspector for the ICAST team. He has been in the energy field for over 15 years as an Energy Auditor. During that time, Jamall has audited over 6 thousand homes and has seen a tremendous number of issues in those years, many of which are unimaginable. He’s enjoying being a part of the ICAST team and furthering a mission that he supports. Jamall has been married to his beautiful wife Jazmine for four years and they currently have no children.

Jared Vigil is a Videographer/Editor for the ICAST team. He has been in the video production industry for over 24 years and has been involved in all sorts of video production projects, including commercials, promo and music videos, short films, animations, and more. He is passionate about creating engaging, entertaining, and informational content. Jared is a single father raising three beautiful daughters.

Jaro received his B.S in Environmental Science with a focus on Energy from Santa Clara University. While attending school, he worked for the University Operations department on various energy/water efficiency projects around campus. Upon graduation, Jaro joined an energy consulting company as an Energy Analyst, and later an Energy Auditor, where he performed ASHRAE level 1 & 2 audits and worked on multiple retro-commissioning and M&V projects. Outside of work, he enjoys fishing, hiking, and playing soccer.

Jeff received his BS in Electrical Engineering from Ohio State and his Master’s in Electrical Engineering from the University of Colorado. Jeff worked in computer development at Hewlett Packard for 20+ years as an electrical engineer and engineering manager. He has been very active working in community development as a volunteer with Engineers Without Borders for several years. Jeff is a certified PMI Project Management Professional. In his free time he enjoys outdoor activities in the mountains, especially mountain biking.

Jeff has been in energy efficiency savings sales since 1991. Most recently he worked in Consulting design/build for lighting and controls upgrades in St. Louis and nationally. Through his position, he has had the chance to work with both the public and the private sectors. Jeff enjoys helping our clients through all our cost-saving and quality upgrading methods. In his free time, Jeff enjoys backyard BBQs, and has been a drummer for 30+ years in area bands and at his church.

Jessie Pernell brings a decade of talent acquisition from Fortune 500 companies to the ICAST team as a Recruiter.  She strongly believes in being a true partner with the Hiring Managers and providing good candidate experience. Prior to being a recruiter, she was a school guidance counselor for 7 years. Jessie holds a Master of Science in Human Resource Management. She finds that being a recruiter is rewarding and loves finding great talent for companies to remain competitive, grow, and be successful. It has always been important to Jessie to make a difference and help others, so the mission of ICAST to help underserved communities resonates with her. When not at work, you can likely find Jessie cheering on one of the South Florida sports teams including the Miami Heat, Miami Dolphins, and Miami Marlins.

John Walker serves as an Energy Auditor/Quality Control Inspector for ICAST. He has worked in a Weatherization Assistance Program since 2009. Most recently, John worked in the state of Oklahoma at the local agency level, and prior to that in the Texas WAP program. He currently holds certifications as a Certified Energy Auditor and as a Quality Control Inspector through BPI, as well as multiple other certifications related to the energy industry. During his free time, John enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, volunteering for the Knights of Columbus, and helping out at his daughter's school, and their church. His time is devoted to his family and his daughters’ activities.

Jose Francisco Perez is a servant leader who brings over 20 years of experience in procurement and strategic management through numerous industries, governments, and military service. He has served in executive-level roles and worked with budgets of over $300M. Jose served in the Marine Corps and served a tour in Iraq as a communication chief and operator. He holds a B.S. in Environmental Sciences and is excited to leverage his combined education and experience to further ICAST’s Triple Bottom Line supporting sustainability. In his spare time, Jose enjoys spending time with his family in outdoor activities, sports/concert events, and exploring national and state parks. He has visited over 30 national and state parks and has hiked the Grand Canyon from the South Rim to the North Rim in a single day.

Joe comes to ICAST with over 10 years of experience in customer relations and sales excellence in the hospitality and automotive industries. Having most recently held the roll of Conference Service Manager in San Francisco, he is well versed in communications, technology, event organization, and systems administration. Joe is passionate about strengthening communities, servicing underserved populations, and helping mitigate the impacts of climate change. In his free time, he enjoys reading, exploring nature, tinkering with small machines and spending time with his wife and cat.

Julie joined ICAST as an Inside Sales Consultant. Her experience includes property management, Mortgage Lending, and Real Estate. She is excited to be working to improve affordable housing and have a positive impact on climate change. Julie has extensive experience driving and exceeding new business development. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, exploring nature, hiking, and stand-up paddle boarding.

Kelsey Johnson brings 10+ years of experience in the energy efficiency engineering and sustainability space, with a specific focus on LIHTC and HUD multifamily clients. Before ICAST, Kelsey was a Director and Client Manager at Partner Engineering & Science. She guided clients through green certifications, energy audits, utility rebate programs, and energy disclosure laws, and presented at numerous industry conferences. Prior to Partner, she worked in Corporate Philanthropy and is thrilled to continue to support triple bottom line values working with ICAST.  Kelsey holds a B.A. from Princeton University and an MBA from USC and is a certified CALGreen Inspector and Green Building Professional. In her spare time, she enjoys tapping into her “previous life” as an opera singer and is also an award-winning opera librettist. She lives in Los Angeles & New York with her professional musician husband, a 20-year-old cat, and two tiny very spoiled dogs.

Kim has spent her 30+ year career in the Marketing field in various industries, most recently construction. She has seen & adapted to the changes in Marketing over the years (there was no social media back then!) and continuously seeks to learn about the “next great thing” that comes up. A graduate of Ohio University with a double bachelor’s degree in Marketing and English, she’s enjoys the dichotomy of Marketing because it uses both your right & left brain – for creativity as well as detail on demographics & metrics. A lifelong resident of Ohio, Kim & her husband Jay, have 2 sons & 1 daughter-in-law, and three granddaughters. While not working, she can be found enjoying time with family & friends, spending time in her numerous flower & vegetable gardens, traveling (especially to a beach area), and in the fall, watching college football.

Kristen Cheriegate has a decade of experience in the policy sector within topics related to energy, environment, mental health, and technology. She holds a M.A. degree from George Washington University, where she studied Security Policies and National Security Law, and a B.A. in Sociology and Criminology from California State University, Northridge. She is passionate about helping local communities achieve sustainable technologies, and is eager to help ICAST navigate the policy world to obtain real-world solutions. Before moving to Colorado in 2019, Kristen spent 5 years in Washington, DC working with international and federal government representatives in the energy and technology sectors. She has conducted research and analysis for both the Center for Cyber and Homeland Security and the Center for European Policy Analysis. In her downtime, she enjoys going to the gym, climbing mountains, and failing at miniature golf.

Leah graduated college with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Accounting. While in school, she held part-time jobs that involved mainly administrative tasks. Leah is passionate about the environment, and believes affordable housing is important in times and areas of high rent. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music, cooking, and reading.

Lynn is a senior human resources professional with 25+ years of experience. A graduate from Roosevelt University with a Bachelors in Business Administration. She has a certificate in Advanced Human Resources Management from UCLA. She is excited about joining the ICAST team as HR Manager. In her spare time, you will find Lynn reading or antiquing for small treasures.

AmeriCorps VISTA Maria Baig works as the Marketing Research and Content Development VISTA at ICAST in Denver, Colorado. She holds a B.S. in Computer Science from Georgia Tech. She joined ICAST because of her interest in sustainability and helping low-income communities. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, working out, watching movies, and spending time in the mountains.

Robert (Mark) Kirk is the ICAST Director of Information Technology. Prior to arriving at ICAST, Mark spent nearly 10 years as the Information Services Director for Osage Nation in Oklahoma and over 15 years on network projects for AT&T. Mark also served on the FirstNet Advisory Board for Oklahoma, Tulsa CIO Executive Team, Oklahoma Governmental Information Technology Association, and Oklahoma Native American Technology Association. An Osage Nation Tribal Member and alumnus of the University of Tulsa College of Business, Mark participates in Osage Tribal projects, TU Golden Hurricane Club activities, and local high school athletic events. When not at work, Mark enjoys traveling, camping, hiking, biking, and just being outdoors.

Chief Operations Officer Mark Simon brings his 30 years of experience in operations & manufacturing to the ICAST team. His background includes expertise in lean transformations that enhance the overall value stream and the integration of continuous improvement systems. Mark is a skilled, positive change agent with hands-on experience in identifying opportunities and implementing best practices to attain strategic goals and objectives. He holds a BS in Business Management, and an AAS in Construction Technology degree(s) from the University of Phoenix, and El Paso CC as well as certifications in Green Belt Lean Six Sigma, Covey Principle Centered Leadership Certification, Spanish as a second language, Toyota Production System Certification, and Strategic Planning (Hoshin Kanri).  Mark is married and has three children and four grandchildren and enjoys CrossFit, running, camping, fishing, boating, and reading.

Marshall Mason’s background is in EE, remodeling, construction, and implementation of community projects. With 13 years of experience in residential energy, he has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the Weatherization Assistance Program performing energy audits, energy modeling, quality control inspections, Healthy Homes Evaluations, EE consultation, public outreach, along with retrofitting homes with energy saving measures. At ICAST, Marshall creates SOWs and performs QCI inspections. He studied Business Administration and Management at Jefferson College in Missouri and holds certifications as a BPI Energy Auditor, Quality Control Inspector, and in EPA Lead Renovation.

Connecticut Construction Field Supervisor Mike Triba has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry, from Project Manager to Superintendent. His background has included large multi-million-dollar projects, as well as smaller projects. Mike holds OSHA 10- and 30-hour certificates of training along with CPR training, Mobile Elevating Work Platform Training, and Variable Reach Rough Terrain Forklift Operator Training. He is a LEED-accredited professional and has security clearances through the GSA. In his free time, Mike enjoys helping friends or family with home repairs and celebrating his successes in the art of fine winemaking.

Mingie Doan received his Associate degree in Economics from Miramar College. Upon graduation, he joined a non-profit healthcare organization as an IT Help Desk Admin, primarily focusing on troubleshooting medical equipment, computers, and peripherals, and migrating physical servers to the cloud. Going onto his 5th year in the IT Field, he brought his experience to ICAST as an IT Help Desk Admin. Mingie is determined to see that his work makes a difference in the world, and is excited to work alongside other ICAST team members to positively impact his peers. In his spare time, he enjoys exploring new restaurants and writing.

Mitch Labe earned his BA in Political Science from Michigan State University with a minor in Law, Justice, and Public Policy. He furthered his education with a master's in Management from the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business. Mitch is passionate about environmental protection and climate advocacy and is dedicated to fostering a more sustainable world, believing it is key to future prosperity for all. Outside of his professional pursuits, Mitch enjoys hiking, camping, playing sports, spending time with friends, and watching movies.

Combine creativity and discipline and you have Monica Paici. Serving as the Director of Marketing at ICAST, Monica takes on challenging responsibilities, such as branding, utility marketing and project management. With 30+ years in the marketing world, she has a practiced hand that creates solutions for even the most difficult of projects. When she is not exploring opportunities to advance ICAST’s mission, she loves to cook. Ask her about how to bake the perfect chocolate cookie. It’s her secret talent.

Natalia has been in the energy efficiency industry for almost 3 years. She previously worked for the Wattsmart program through Rocky Mountain Power. Natalia graduated with a bachelor’s in psychology in 2015. She was interested in ICAST because she likes the mission behind the organization. She wants to do her part in making sustainability accessible to everyone. In her free time she likes to hang out with her family, her boyfriend, and her cats. She enjoys watching football, traveling, and hiking when it isn't cold outside.

Nat graduated with a B.S. from the University of Utah, where they received a dual degree in Environmental Studies and Sociology. During college, they worked with university faculty on several projects revolving around sustainability and how it intersects with our local community. Nat is passionate about environmental justice and aiding underserved communities. In their free time, they enjoy creating art, going to concerts, watching movies, and spending time with their loved ones.

Nick is a green collar professional with nearly ten years of proven success in design and implementation of demand side management (DSM) programs. By working for a nonprofit, he continues his mission to drive economic, environmental, and social change through energy efficiency. Nick holds degrees in Environmental Studies and Economics from the University of Colorado. When not working, Nick enjoys spending his time in the alpine.

IT Technician Nicklaus Watson began his ICAST career as an AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteer and then remained on taking a position as an IT Technician. Nick graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside in May of 2021 with an M.S. in Sustainable Management. He enjoys working for an organization that focuses on all aspects of sustainability, and by utilizing his undergraduate minors from Ball State University: Computer Science, Foundations of Computer Technology, and History, he hopes to make a lasting contribution to ICAST. When he is not working, he enjoys practicing nature photography, exploring the neighborhoods of Denver, and spending time hiking through the mountains and forests of Colorado.

Paul Borgman has 30 years of progressive and successful experience in Energy, Facilities, Maintenance Management, and Capital Projects. Before joining ICAST, he worked with Automated Building Systems (ABS) in Marlborough, MA, performing audits of buildings, calculating energy savings, and developing cost/savings analysis for presentation to customers. He coordinated with the controls group at ABS to determine the best project for customers and developed calculations for Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) and submitted them to Utilities to obtain the maximum incentives available for customers. At ICAST, Paul utilizes energy audit information to develop recommended SOWs for MF customers. He calculates savings based on the SOW to determine potential Utility rebates, follows the project through its various stages, and makes any necessary changes.  Paul received a B.S., Mechanical Engineering at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Perla brings over 15 years of accounting and administrative support experience to the ICAST team. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Universidad de Buenos Aires. She has previous nonprofit experience as well. Perla is bi-lingual (English and Spanish) and her hobbies include baking and gardening.

National Construction Manager Peter Brown has devoted his entire career to creating better buildings that positively impact people's lives. He began this journey working for America's largest homebuilder straight out of college and quickly fell in love with residential construction, realizing that, at its essence, it is a human solutions business. Transitioning to the field of green building, where he managed one of the country's oldest and largest green building certification programs for over a decade, he became an expert in clean energy implementation, the building sciences, and cost-effective energy efficiency housing solutions. To unwind, he loves to spoil his dog, ski, read, and drive down the load of his zero-energy home to free up kWh for charging an EV.

Rachel Nguyen is an ICAST Energy Data Analyst and is passionate about environmental justice, health, and sustainability. Before joining the ICAST team, she worked as a consultant for green building certifications, analyzing and managing utility data, as well as ensuring compliance with state and local building ordinances. Rachel has a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and a Master’s degree in Environmental Management from the University of Houston. She enjoys surfing, boxing, and working on her ocean-inspired jewelry business when not working.

Ravi is an experienced engineer and social entrepreneur who has established a variety of enterprises in India, Africa and the US with an emphasis on sustainable technologies. He is currently focused on finding financially sustainable models to solve the U.S. affordable housing crisis while tackling climate change through the efforts of ICAST and TBL Fund. Ravi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology and Master’s degrees in both Engineering and Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin.

Rene Siluano-Garcia is a Construction Project Coordinator for ICAST. Originally from San Diego CA, he attended San Diego State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Rene also played Division I football while attending San Diego State. GO AZTECS! In his free time, he enjoys sports, outdoor activities, collecting sports and trading cards, going to the beach, and thinking of what he wants to do next in life!

Rey Acuna was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico & has spent most of his life in the construction industry - beginning with his father’s construction company. While in high school, he began working at non-profit organizations as a community support worker. Although experienced in construction areas, Rey graduated from Central New Mexico in 2018 from their Paramedic program and worked for Albuquerque ambulance and the Albuquerque Fire Department. He joined ICAST after working on a boiler project for them. Ray also co-owns Zonatletica gym in Albuquerque and enjoys spending his free time with his two daughters.

Rich is a US Navy Veteran and has experience in a variety of construction and procurement roles before joining ICAST. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Florida State College at Jacksonville and an Associate’s Degree in Electrical Mechanical Engineering from Coastline Community College. Rich is enthusiastic about bringing his experience together at ICAST to help bridge the social gap and help others go beyond their current situation.  When not at work he spends his time cooking and being outside with his family traveling, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping. He has lived in 4 states and been to more than 27 countries but still has more to visit. 

Quality Assurance Manager Rich Coachman brings a wealth of knowledge in Quality Leadership, Continuous Improvement, and Project Management to the ICAST team. An extensive background spanning multiple industries focusing on customer-centric, and process-oriented senior quality management allows him to tap a skillset selecting the optimal approach and tools for today’s organizational challenges. He enjoys teaching and mentoring others at every level of the organizational chart. During his off hours, you might find Rich enjoying motorcycles, billiards, or traveling with his wife. He is also a passionate college & pro football fan.

ICAST Project Manager for Multifamily Weatherization Russell Rubinow has an extensive 30+ year career in the construction industry covering numerous aspects and specialties. He has developed affordable housing in Connecticut for over two decades, holds a Carpentry degree from Vinal Tech and is a Master Carpenter. Russell comes from a large Connecticut family and as an all sports enthusiast, when he’s not working you might find him motorcycling, snowmobiling, cycling, exercising, golfing, or spending time listening to music with his lovely wife and beautiful daughter.

As Vice President of  Grant Programs Ryan Kristoff grows the organization by securing the funding and partnerships necessary to build new programs, expand to new geographies, and add new solutions to its one-stop-shop suite of services. Since joining ICAST in 2013, he has used his 12 years of grant experience in working with hundreds of local governments, utility, state, and federal partners to design and launch programs that further ICAST's work in underserved communities. Ryan received a B.A. in History and Philosophy from the University of Connecticut. He is an AmeriCorps VISTA alumnus and is passionate about making a positive impact in the world.

Construction Project Manager in Connecticut, Ryan Luby has comprehensive experience and knowledge in residential and multi-family construction, working in the industry since 2015. Ryan has developed a strong network of real estate investors and contractors throughout Connecticut and organizes a monthly meet-up where professionals in the area can gather to network and learn from one another. In his free time, he loves spending time with his wife, two kids, and extended family, playing golf, and participating in triathlons.

Sam Lipman has over 24 years of experience in the solar industry.  He has developed community solar projects for the past 8 years nationally.  As a developer, he is well versed with the entire process from sales to site acquisition to engineering, environmental analysis, permitting, EPC vendor selection, financing, utility interconnection, commissioning, and project closeout.  Sam is a member of the Southwest Area Transmission (SWAT) Subregional Planning Group, planning new transmission infrastructure in the US Southwest.

Shelby recently received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities and post-graduation moved to Denver, Colorado. She joined the team at ICAST because of her passion for sustainability, the environment and helping low-income populations. When not working, she enjoys spending her time reading, hiking, skiing, and backpacking in the mountains.

Shubham Manoj Heda joined ICAST as a Data Engineer in the IT Department. Shubham has extensive experience using different tools and technologies such as SQL, SSIS, PowerBI, Data Warehouses, and Python. He is a 2021 graduate of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County with a Master’s degree in Information Systems. Additionally, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology. Before ICAST, he was a Data Analyst for 3 years. In his free time, Shubham enjoys playing video games, trekking, playing football, and badminton.   

Sonja Westbrook is an accomplished Chief Information Officer with extensive expertise in IT planning, infrastructure management, and change management. Renowned for her strategic vision and strong team-building skills, Sonja has successfully modernized IT infrastructure and enhanced service quality in previous roles in a variety of industries including construction, airline, utilities, legal, and higher education. She holds a Doctor of Science in Information Technology and multiple advanced degrees including Computer Security, Law, and Business Administration, alongside certifications in ITIL and CompTIA A+. Sonja is dedicated to leveraging technology for organizational success while fostering high-performance teams through mentorship and development. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new destinations through her travels.

Sue has many years of experience working in community relations with a global financial services corporation, including work in their Foundation and its Environmental Affairs unit. This experience gave her the opportunity to learn about the importance of sustainability. In that vein, Sue is pleased to work at ICAST in helping to further its goals.

Tamara Long joined ICAST as an Administrative Assistant in Accounting at the corporate headquarters in Colorado. She manages a multitude of essential Accounting administrative tasks.. Additionally, she provides administrative support for Human Resources, Engineering, and IT departments as needed. Tamara is a native of Las Vegas, Nevada but has resided in Colorado since 1991. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her granddaughter, reading, and enjoying nature walks.

Connecticut Community Outreach Coordinator Tani Cooper has been dedicated to service work since 2001, working as a community organizer, housing advocate, and grant writing consultant. She attended the renowned Florida A&M University as a political science major where she discovered her love for writing and service and edited her first book for publication. After attending school and working in Florida for 13 years, Tani returned to Connecticut motivated to work in a field supporting her passions including environmental justice, school reform, and affordable housing. Tani is eager to use her skills and talents to advance the ICAST mission. In her leisure time, she enjoys everything outdoors and spending time with her two children and four rescue kitties.

Account Manager Tom Magnuson is a Salt Lake City native with deep roots in his community. He has a strong business background holding a B.A. in Business Marketing from the Jon Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University and understands business development, business strategy, and sustainability practices. Tom also holds an M.A. from Prescott College in Resilient and Sustainable Communities, where he learned about the energy makeup of the US and, more particularly, the Intermountain West. Working to help organizations and households become more resilient through energy improvements is what he strives to do. Beyond this, Tom collaborates with clients to help them take advantage of energy savings through sustainable building retrofits. He lives in the Liberty Wells neighborhood of Salt Lake City with his wife, Hannah, and two young kids, Lucas and Wesley. Tom enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the mountains, biking, and playing in social sports leagues.

Tiffany Nelson is an accounts receivable professional with over 6 years of experience in accounts and a heavy focus on leadership and process improvement. Her love for problem solving and puzzles leads to her success in the finance and accounting fields.  Tiffany is married and has 4 active children so her time away from work is often spent either at a practice, a game, or fitting in an outdoor family activity. Her family loves to camp and fish! Tiffany also has personal hobbies including gardening and making breads from scratch.

Tim Bennett brings 15 years of accounting experience leading teams in a wide range of industry backgrounds including construction, waste management/recycling, and product manufacturing/retail. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business with an emphasis on Finance from Brigham Young University. With an attention to detail and precision, he specializes in accounting organization, process simplification, and executive reporting. In his free time, Tim enjoys outdoor activities with his family and improving trade skills with DIY home projects.

National Services Manager Veronika Martinez has over 20 years of experience in the Construction Industry as Project Manager and Interior Designer. She has been a Consultant for multiple general contractors and builders in Denver, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. Veronika is a mother of two boys, Stephen and Robert, and a wife to Vincent - her guys are her life! When not on the job, she loves to travel and enjoys hosting!

ICAST Program Manager Vincent Nemeth brings extensive experience in helping homeowners inspect and test for safety and environmental hazards.  As ICAST HUD’s Health Home Program Manager, his skills perfectly match his strong belief that everyone should live in a healthy and safe environment.  When not working, he enjoys playing and teaching guitar.

Walter Cupa brings an extensive background in the solar industry to the ICAST team as National Solar Solutions Manager. Originally from Los Angeles, California, now residing in El Paso, Texas, Walter has been deeply involved in the solar industry since 2018. During this time, he owned and managed a business, gaining valuable experience and insights. Walter's unique blend of industry expertise and personal passion makes him a valuable asset to the ICAST team. Beyond his professional endeavors, Walter is a proud father of a son and enjoys quality time with his son,  participating in trail running, hiking, and skateboarding.