Speakers
The theme for our conference is: "Green Tech - Sustainable Cities in the 21st Century". Our breakout sessions will follow 3 different tracks:
- Campus and Community
- Energy and Natural Resources
- Industry
Keynote Speakers
Friday - McCullagh Coffee
Warren Emblidge
Warren Emblidge
President & CEO
Long before it was “the thing to do,” Warren Emblidge followed a sustainable business model: his coffee company was one of the first
American businesses in Vietnam, and he credits his company’s profitability to engaging and embracing the community and using natural resources in a delicate way.
Environmental sustainability achieved in a financially prudent manner plays a key role in his business. Mr. Emblidge was employed at Buffalo Savings Bank/Goldome until 1986, earning various promotions to senior management positions. The late 1970’s and 80’s were very difficult for thrift institutions, since inflation was high, short-term interest rates were higher and the bank’s loan portfolio yield was less than interest expense. He represented the bank and worked with the thrift industry officials on many important financial matters. A failed effort to convert the Bank
in 1983 to publically owned institution convinced Mr. Emblidge and his wife that a “Plan B” was required.
Mr. Emblidge was born and raised in Western New York. Mr. Emblidge holds an MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and an AMP from the Harvard Business School. He is an Eagle Scout, was a finalist in the 1964 Olympic Sailing trials, is a cancer survivor, plays piano in a mainstream jazz group and is involved in the usual community activities.
President & CEO
Long before it was “the thing to do,” Warren Emblidge followed a sustainable business model: his coffee company was one of the first
American businesses in Vietnam, and he credits his company’s profitability to engaging and embracing the community and using natural resources in a delicate way.
Environmental sustainability achieved in a financially prudent manner plays a key role in his business. Mr. Emblidge was employed at Buffalo Savings Bank/Goldome until 1986, earning various promotions to senior management positions. The late 1970’s and 80’s were very difficult for thrift institutions, since inflation was high, short-term interest rates were higher and the bank’s loan portfolio yield was less than interest expense. He represented the bank and worked with the thrift industry officials on many important financial matters. A failed effort to convert the Bank
in 1983 to publically owned institution convinced Mr. Emblidge and his wife that a “Plan B” was required.
Mr. Emblidge was born and raised in Western New York. Mr. Emblidge holds an MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and an AMP from the Harvard Business School. He is an Eagle Scout, was a finalist in the 1964 Olympic Sailing trials, is a cancer survivor, plays piano in a mainstream jazz group and is involved in the usual community activities.
Saturday AM- General Motors
Gary Stottler
Gary Stottler
Manager, Advanced Technology Demonstration
General Motors, LLC
Since 2005, Gary has managed the deployment of the GM Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle “Project Driveway” fleet in addition to supporting a range of Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure projects. After joining GM’s Global Alternative Propulsion Center in 2000 with responsibility for Fuel Cell system development, Gary held various R&D and Engineering management roles in the creation of GM’s 3rd and 4th generation Fuel Cells.
From 1997 to 2000, Gary served in various engineering management positions in General Motors Powertrain working on engine control systems for GM’s Small Block and Northstar engine families. In 1995 and 1996, Gary led development of GM’s first Electronic Throttle Control (“Drive By Wire”) which was introduced on the 1997 Corvette.
Prior to 1995, Gary worked in a number of engineering assignments in engine controls and emission controls at GM Powertrain. He began his career with General Motors in 1983 as a test engineer in Lansing, Michigan.
Gary earned a BSME degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1982 and an MSE degree in Controls Engineering from Purdue University in 1995.
Manager, Advanced Technology Demonstration
General Motors, LLC
Since 2005, Gary has managed the deployment of the GM Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle “Project Driveway” fleet in addition to supporting a range of Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure projects. After joining GM’s Global Alternative Propulsion Center in 2000 with responsibility for Fuel Cell system development, Gary held various R&D and Engineering management roles in the creation of GM’s 3rd and 4th generation Fuel Cells.
From 1997 to 2000, Gary served in various engineering management positions in General Motors Powertrain working on engine control systems for GM’s Small Block and Northstar engine families. In 1995 and 1996, Gary led development of GM’s first Electronic Throttle Control (“Drive By Wire”) which was introduced on the 1997 Corvette.
Prior to 1995, Gary worked in a number of engineering assignments in engine controls and emission controls at GM Powertrain. He began his career with General Motors in 1983 as a test engineer in Lansing, Michigan.
Gary earned a BSME degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1982 and an MSE degree in Controls Engineering from Purdue University in 1995.
Saturday PM - Gary Carrel
Gary Carrel, is an Energy $mart Communities (E$C) Coordinator focusing on Erie and Niagara Counties in Western New York. The other counties covered by the program are Allegany, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua. The E$C program provides outreach and education to home owners, community leaders, business owners, and the gen-eral public on the benefits of energy efficiency and renewable resources and act as the locally-based liaison for programs and services provided by the New York State Energy Research Development Authority (NYSERDA).
He works out of the Erie County Cooperative Extension Office in East Aurora. His experience working in the environmental field has encompassed both non-profits and County government. Highlights include writing and managing grants from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As Recycling Coordinator for Erie County, he created innovative strategies to help municipalities reach recycling and waste reduction goals and was responsible for community and school outreach programs. He produced biennial compliance reports to NY State Department of Environmental Conservation and coordinated the 2006 and 2008 Great Lakes Student Summits, a two-day education conference for students in grades 5-9. Carrel assisted in the transition of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy from a small not-for-profit to a significant park manage-ment organization. He created the template for the community volunteer tree planting program in 1999 which is still in use today. He has coordinated marketing, public relations and community outreach programs for several years. Prior to turn-ing his energies to environmental issues, he was the community relations director and producer of the annual United Cerebral Palsy of WNY Telethon as part of the national event.
He works out of the Erie County Cooperative Extension Office in East Aurora. His experience working in the environmental field has encompassed both non-profits and County government. Highlights include writing and managing grants from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As Recycling Coordinator for Erie County, he created innovative strategies to help municipalities reach recycling and waste reduction goals and was responsible for community and school outreach programs. He produced biennial compliance reports to NY State Department of Environmental Conservation and coordinated the 2006 and 2008 Great Lakes Student Summits, a two-day education conference for students in grades 5-9. Carrel assisted in the transition of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy from a small not-for-profit to a significant park manage-ment organization. He created the template for the community volunteer tree planting program in 1999 which is still in use today. He has coordinated marketing, public relations and community outreach programs for several years. Prior to turn-ing his energies to environmental issues, he was the community relations director and producer of the annual United Cerebral Palsy of WNY Telethon as part of the national event.
Ryan McPherson
University at Buffalo
Chief Sustainability Officer
Since he joined UB in 1999, McPherson has served in a variety of government relations, community relations and external affairs roles. As UB's associate vice president for government and community relations, he led the university's federal, state and local government agenda and community relations, working to achieve government and community support for the UB 2020 strategic plan. He has served as chair of outreach and communications for the Environmental Stewardship Committee since 2008, and formerly chaired UB's Greener Shade of Blue Committee. A resident of East Aurora, he is active in community environmental initiatives and causes.
Prior to joining UB, McPherson served in a variety of legislative, research and development positions for organizations in Washington, D.C., and in New Hampshire. He received a JD from the UB Law School in 2002, graduating magna cum laude, and earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of New Hampshire in 1996.
Chief Sustainability Officer
Since he joined UB in 1999, McPherson has served in a variety of government relations, community relations and external affairs roles. As UB's associate vice president for government and community relations, he led the university's federal, state and local government agenda and community relations, working to achieve government and community support for the UB 2020 strategic plan. He has served as chair of outreach and communications for the Environmental Stewardship Committee since 2008, and formerly chaired UB's Greener Shade of Blue Committee. A resident of East Aurora, he is active in community environmental initiatives and causes.
Prior to joining UB, McPherson served in a variety of legislative, research and development positions for organizations in Washington, D.C., and in New Hampshire. He received a JD from the UB Law School in 2002, graduating magna cum laude, and earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of New Hampshire in 1996.
Breakout Session Speakers
Campus and Community
Adam Menter
Manager, Creation of Educational Content
Autodesk
Adam Menter manages the creation of educational content on sustainable engineering and design at Autodesk. In this role he builds relationships with students, professors and professionals who work to advance the practice of sustainable design, and he helps to improve the way design tools and sustainability strategies are used within the design process. His current project is the Autodesk Sustainability Workshop. Since 2009, he has supported Autodesk’s sustainable design program on education, strategy and product development projects. He has worked as a design strategist at Jump Associates and holds both a mechanical engineering degree and an MBA from Vanderbilt University. He is a LEED accredited professional and a leader of the San Francisco Net Impact chapter.
Autodesk
Adam Menter manages the creation of educational content on sustainable engineering and design at Autodesk. In this role he builds relationships with students, professors and professionals who work to advance the practice of sustainable design, and he helps to improve the way design tools and sustainability strategies are used within the design process. His current project is the Autodesk Sustainability Workshop. Since 2009, he has supported Autodesk’s sustainable design program on education, strategy and product development projects. He has worked as a design strategist at Jump Associates and holds both a mechanical engineering degree and an MBA from Vanderbilt University. He is a LEED accredited professional and a leader of the San Francisco Net Impact chapter.
Albert Gilewicz
Assistant Director - Utility Operations
SUNY University at Buffalo
Albert J. Gilewicz (BSCE, Union College, Schenectady, NY; MBA, Loyola University, Chicago, Il) currently works at SUNY University at Buffalo in University Facilities as the Assistant Director – Utility Operations, the department in charge of operating all campus buildings 24/7/365. With 25 years of experience in the private sector, Mr. Gilewicz brought to UB a breadth of experience in various central utility plant and building systems including design, construction, start up, operation, and maintenance, working in positions ranging from being the consultant, contractor, and owner.
In addition to his traditional duties of reducing the University’s energy consumption, Mr. Gilewicz has offered undergraduate courses such as “What is your Electrical Carbon Footprint”, the student- initiated “Fume Hood Conservation Project”, and lectured in numerous classes at the
University and the surrounding community.
The presentation at the ESW National Conference will focus on the integration of renewable energy systems into the fabric of any campus or urban environment. Specific focus will be on why and how universities should take a leading role in this endeavor.
SUNY University at Buffalo
Albert J. Gilewicz (BSCE, Union College, Schenectady, NY; MBA, Loyola University, Chicago, Il) currently works at SUNY University at Buffalo in University Facilities as the Assistant Director – Utility Operations, the department in charge of operating all campus buildings 24/7/365. With 25 years of experience in the private sector, Mr. Gilewicz brought to UB a breadth of experience in various central utility plant and building systems including design, construction, start up, operation, and maintenance, working in positions ranging from being the consultant, contractor, and owner.
In addition to his traditional duties of reducing the University’s energy consumption, Mr. Gilewicz has offered undergraduate courses such as “What is your Electrical Carbon Footprint”, the student- initiated “Fume Hood Conservation Project”, and lectured in numerous classes at the
University and the surrounding community.
The presentation at the ESW National Conference will focus on the integration of renewable energy systems into the fabric of any campus or urban environment. Specific focus will be on why and how universities should take a leading role in this endeavor.
Professor Callie Babbitt
Professor Callie Babbitt
Rochester Institute of Technology
Dr. Callie Babbitt is an Assistant Professor in the Golisano Institute for Sustainability at RIT, where she conducts research relating to life cycle assessment, industrial ecology, and electronic waste management,
and teaches courses such as “Applied Life Cycle Assessment” and “Sustainable Product Design” as part of the innovative Sustainability Ph.D. program at RIT. Prior to coming to RIT, Dr. Babbitt was
a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Arizona State University. She received her Ph.D. and M.E. in Environmental Engineering from the University of Florida, and her B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.
Rochester Institute of Technology
Dr. Callie Babbitt is an Assistant Professor in the Golisano Institute for Sustainability at RIT, where she conducts research relating to life cycle assessment, industrial ecology, and electronic waste management,
and teaches courses such as “Applied Life Cycle Assessment” and “Sustainable Product Design” as part of the innovative Sustainability Ph.D. program at RIT. Prior to coming to RIT, Dr. Babbitt was
a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Arizona State University. She received her Ph.D. and M.E. in Environmental Engineering from the University of Florida, and her B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.
Zachary Wilhoit
Zachary Wilhoit
Mechanical Engineering Honors, May 2013The University of Texas at Austin
President, ESW-UT
Hometown: Perrin, TX Current City: Austin, TX
Hobbies: paintball, building computers and PC gaming, taught myself to play the piano
Academic Interests: energy production, residential energy efficiency Professional Ambitions: I intend to pursue a career in the field of alternative energy generation.
Mechanical Engineering Honors, May 2013The University of Texas at Austin
President, ESW-UT
Hometown: Perrin, TX Current City: Austin, TX
Hobbies: paintball, building computers and PC gaming, taught myself to play the piano
Academic Interests: energy production, residential energy efficiency Professional Ambitions: I intend to pursue a career in the field of alternative energy generation.
Ryan Rzpecki
Social Bicycles
Ryan has a B.S. in Marketing from Penn State University and a Masters in Urban Planning from Hunter College. The bicycle has been his primary mode of transportation for the last four years, and bicycle advocacy has been both his passion and profession. Prior to developing SoBi, Ryan worked for the NYC Department of Transportation in the bicycle program. At the DOT, he sited bike racks, edited the bike map, conducted field research on bike facilities, and organized cycling promotions.
Ryan has a B.S. in Marketing from Penn State University and a Masters in Urban Planning from Hunter College. The bicycle has been his primary mode of transportation for the last four years, and bicycle advocacy has been both his passion and profession. Prior to developing SoBi, Ryan worked for the NYC Department of Transportation in the bicycle program. At the DOT, he sited bike racks, edited the bike map, conducted field research on bike facilities, and organized cycling promotions.
Energy and Natural Resources
Walter Simpson
Energy Officer
University at Buffalo
Walter Simpson, MA, MS, was Energy Officer at the University of Buffalo for 26 years, leading a nationally recognized campus energy conservation program, before retiring in 2008. In 2002 he was inducted into the Association of Energy Engineers’ Energy Managers Hall of Fame. He is editor and author of The Green Campus: Meeting the Challenge of Environmental Sustainability (APPA, 2008 and 2011) and author of Cool Campus! A How-to Guide for College and University Climate Action Planning (AASHE, 2009). His website is www.energyreallymatters.com.
University at Buffalo
Walter Simpson, MA, MS, was Energy Officer at the University of Buffalo for 26 years, leading a nationally recognized campus energy conservation program, before retiring in 2008. In 2002 he was inducted into the Association of Energy Engineers’ Energy Managers Hall of Fame. He is editor and author of The Green Campus: Meeting the Challenge of Environmental Sustainability (APPA, 2008 and 2011) and author of Cool Campus! A How-to Guide for College and University Climate Action Planning (AASHE, 2009). His website is www.energyreallymatters.com.
Katy Duggan-Haas
Sustainability Program Development & Education
MODERN
Katy Duggan-Haas is Sustainability Program Educator for Modern, a locally-owned waste and recycling services family of companies. Her role is to educate children and adults about recycling and sustainability and inspire them to take action for a more sustainable world. Katy also works alongside Modern’s sales and operations teams to support its customers as they work to achieve their own waste-related sustainability goals. Her previous experience includes work on recycling infrastructure and market development projects and a long history of community service that supports the environment, including program coordination for the Buffalo Niagara Chapter of the Upstate Green Business Network and development of the Western New York Environmental Alliance. She has biology and teaching degrees from Cornell University.
MODERN
Katy Duggan-Haas is Sustainability Program Educator for Modern, a locally-owned waste and recycling services family of companies. Her role is to educate children and adults about recycling and sustainability and inspire them to take action for a more sustainable world. Katy also works alongside Modern’s sales and operations teams to support its customers as they work to achieve their own waste-related sustainability goals. Her previous experience includes work on recycling infrastructure and market development projects and a long history of community service that supports the environment, including program coordination for the Buffalo Niagara Chapter of the Upstate Green Business Network and development of the Western New York Environmental Alliance. She has biology and teaching degrees from Cornell University.
Alexander Dale
Ph.D. Student
University of Pittsburgh
Alexander Dale is a 3rd year PhD student and NSF IGERT fellow in the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation at the University of Pittsburgh. His interests in sustainability stretch across the spectrum from technical problems to envisioning sustainable communities, but his research is on the regional feasibility of future energy and water supplies, focusing on Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Brazil. He has also done work looking at the Marcellus Shale.
He has been involved with ESW for 4 years, acting as project leader, past chapter president, and public relations at the local level. He has been working at the national level for two years as Director of Communications, and has been involved in restructuring ESW Nationally. Outside of ESW, he is responsible for the creation and maintenance of Pitt’s student environmental website, and the founder of Pitt’s TEDx event series.
University of Pittsburgh
Alexander Dale is a 3rd year PhD student and NSF IGERT fellow in the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation at the University of Pittsburgh. His interests in sustainability stretch across the spectrum from technical problems to envisioning sustainable communities, but his research is on the regional feasibility of future energy and water supplies, focusing on Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Brazil. He has also done work looking at the Marcellus Shale.
He has been involved with ESW for 4 years, acting as project leader, past chapter president, and public relations at the local level. He has been working at the national level for two years as Director of Communications, and has been involved in restructuring ESW Nationally. Outside of ESW, he is responsible for the creation and maintenance of Pitt’s student environmental website, and the founder of Pitt’s TEDx event series.
Bill Nowak
Buffalo Clean Energy
CEO
Bill Nowak is the CEO of Buffalo Clean Energy and is currently working on a consulting basis with Buffalo Geothermal, Gridwerks Solar, The Sierra Club Niagara Group, and Buffalo/Niagara Riverkeeper. As Director of Policy Research for Senator Antoine Thompson, the former Chair of the NY State Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, Bill was involved with several far reaching environmental and policy initiatives in New York. These include the bigger Better Bottle Bill, improvements to New York’s net metering law, the NY moratorium on hydrofracking and the Green Jobs/Green New York program.
CEO
Bill Nowak is the CEO of Buffalo Clean Energy and is currently working on a consulting basis with Buffalo Geothermal, Gridwerks Solar, The Sierra Club Niagara Group, and Buffalo/Niagara Riverkeeper. As Director of Policy Research for Senator Antoine Thompson, the former Chair of the NY State Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, Bill was involved with several far reaching environmental and policy initiatives in New York. These include the bigger Better Bottle Bill, improvements to New York’s net metering law, the NY moratorium on hydrofracking and the Green Jobs/Green New York program.
Dr. Don Duggan-Haas
Education Research Associate
Museum of the Earth at the Paleontological Research Institution
Dr. Don Duggan-Haas is Education Research Associate at the Paleontological Research Institution & its Museum of the Earth in Ithaca, NY. Through educator professional development and curriculum materials development, Don works to nurture learning about the Earth system through place-based and inquiry-oriented approaches that focus upon building deep understanding of a few fundamental principles of Earth system science. He served on the Earth & Space Science Design Team for the National Research Council’s Framework for K-12 Science Education which will be used to guide the development of the next generation of national science education standards. Don is also a member of the Climate Literacy Network, a national group that crafted Climate Literacy: The Essential Principles of Climate Science, and works to foster climate and energy literacy. Don has taught at Colgate, Cornell and Michigan State Universities, Kalamazoo College and in a number of public high schools.
Museum of the Earth at the Paleontological Research Institution
Dr. Don Duggan-Haas is Education Research Associate at the Paleontological Research Institution & its Museum of the Earth in Ithaca, NY. Through educator professional development and curriculum materials development, Don works to nurture learning about the Earth system through place-based and inquiry-oriented approaches that focus upon building deep understanding of a few fundamental principles of Earth system science. He served on the Earth & Space Science Design Team for the National Research Council’s Framework for K-12 Science Education which will be used to guide the development of the next generation of national science education standards. Don is also a member of the Climate Literacy Network, a national group that crafted Climate Literacy: The Essential Principles of Climate Science, and works to foster climate and energy literacy. Don has taught at Colgate, Cornell and Michigan State Universities, Kalamazoo College and in a number of public high schools.
Dr. Carl Lund
University at Buffalo
Chemical Engineering
SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor
Dr. Carl Lund grew up near Norristown, PA and moved to Muncy, PA while in high school. In 1972 he graduated from Muncy High School. Dr. Lund continued his education at Purdue University earning a B.S. in Chemical Engineering in 1976. After a summer's work experience at Mobil in Paulsboro, NJ, he started graduate school in Chemical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin (Go Badgers!). Dr. Lund worked under Jim Dumesic's guidance, specializing in heterogeneous catalysis and earning my Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering in 1981. Upon graduation he accepted a position at the Exxon Corporate Research Labs, where Dr. Lund worked for five years.
In 1986 he moved to Buffalo, NY, and ever since, he's been here at U.B., known to most outsiders as SUNY-Buffalo (Go Bulls!). I'm a SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor in Chemical and Biological Engineering and a past chairperson of the Department.
If you've read this far, are still awake, and want to know more, you can peruse a .pdf version of his cv or check out Dr. Lund's ResearcherID page.
Chemical Engineering
SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor
Dr. Carl Lund grew up near Norristown, PA and moved to Muncy, PA while in high school. In 1972 he graduated from Muncy High School. Dr. Lund continued his education at Purdue University earning a B.S. in Chemical Engineering in 1976. After a summer's work experience at Mobil in Paulsboro, NJ, he started graduate school in Chemical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin (Go Badgers!). Dr. Lund worked under Jim Dumesic's guidance, specializing in heterogeneous catalysis and earning my Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering in 1981. Upon graduation he accepted a position at the Exxon Corporate Research Labs, where Dr. Lund worked for five years.
In 1986 he moved to Buffalo, NY, and ever since, he's been here at U.B., known to most outsiders as SUNY-Buffalo (Go Bulls!). I'm a SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor in Chemical and Biological Engineering and a past chairperson of the Department.
If you've read this far, are still awake, and want to know more, you can peruse a .pdf version of his cv or check out Dr. Lund's ResearcherID page.
Professor Ben Ebenhack
Associate Professor of Petroleum Engineering
Marietta College, Ohio.
Ben W. Ebenhack is Associate Professor of Petroleum Engineering at Marietta College in Ohio. He teaches courses on Formation Evaluation, Petrophysics, Energy Resources and Utilization and Engineering Ethics and Leadership. In 2008, the Society of Petroleum Engineers selected him as a Distinguished Lecturer, speaking around the world about "Preserving and Extending the Energy Advantage." The American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers selected him to receive the 2011 McDonnell Award for service to humanity.
He is the author of the textbook, A Non-technical Guide to Energy Resources: Availability, Use and Impact, from PennWell publishers, in 1994 and authored the "Energy Policy" section of Our Fragile World: Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Development, UNESCO, 2001 as well as numerous articles and presentations about energy, development and the environment. He has two books under contract with a publisher on Pathways to Sustainable Energy and Valuing Energy.
Click Here for Additional Information.
Marietta College, Ohio.
Ben W. Ebenhack is Associate Professor of Petroleum Engineering at Marietta College in Ohio. He teaches courses on Formation Evaluation, Petrophysics, Energy Resources and Utilization and Engineering Ethics and Leadership. In 2008, the Society of Petroleum Engineers selected him as a Distinguished Lecturer, speaking around the world about "Preserving and Extending the Energy Advantage." The American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers selected him to receive the 2011 McDonnell Award for service to humanity.
He is the author of the textbook, A Non-technical Guide to Energy Resources: Availability, Use and Impact, from PennWell publishers, in 1994 and authored the "Energy Policy" section of Our Fragile World: Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Development, UNESCO, 2001 as well as numerous articles and presentations about energy, development and the environment. He has two books under contract with a publisher on Pathways to Sustainable Energy and Valuing Energy.
Click Here for Additional Information.
Industry
Dave Bradley
Renewable Energy Consultant
Chemical and Environmental Engineer
Buffalo, NY
David Bradley is a renewable energy consultant presently residing in Buffalo, NY. He is an inventor, chemical and environmental engineer, skills which cover a lot of renewable energy and energy efficiency topics. He is also working to change NY State's amazingly bizarre electricity pricing laws, at least for renewable energy; theses are a major reason why NY has not lived up to expectations in the renewable energy field. He was one of the first to do a "no wimp" analysis of the wind energy potential of the Great Lakes ("A Great Potential"), which was about 250 GW with 2004 technology
Chemical and Environmental Engineer
Buffalo, NY
David Bradley is a renewable energy consultant presently residing in Buffalo, NY. He is an inventor, chemical and environmental engineer, skills which cover a lot of renewable energy and energy efficiency topics. He is also working to change NY State's amazingly bizarre electricity pricing laws, at least for renewable energy; theses are a major reason why NY has not lived up to expectations in the renewable energy field. He was one of the first to do a "no wimp" analysis of the wind energy potential of the Great Lakes ("A Great Potential"), which was about 250 GW with 2004 technology
Roxanne Button
Architectural Resources
Licensed Architect
LEED Accredited Professional (BD+C Homes)
Roxanne Button has been involved in sustainable design for over 20 years, from green building consulting to scriptwriting for a green renovation TV series, & designing and managing LEED projects. Her deep passion for the environment informs her work as an architect, believing that sustainable design is simply good design. Roxanne is a board member for the New York Upstate Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council, & a member of the Chapter’s Education Committee. She is also a Reviewer/Auditor for USGBC’s Education Providers’ Program, contributing to the development of educational programs for LEED Accredited Professionals. She led the team that created Public Day for the American Solar Energy Conference held in Buffalo in 2009, and is GPRO-trained to conduct workshops for construction professionals on green & LEED projects. Roxanne has a Master of Architecture degree and a Bachelor of Environmental Studies degree from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Canada.
Licensed Architect
LEED Accredited Professional (BD+C Homes)
Roxanne Button has been involved in sustainable design for over 20 years, from green building consulting to scriptwriting for a green renovation TV series, & designing and managing LEED projects. Her deep passion for the environment informs her work as an architect, believing that sustainable design is simply good design. Roxanne is a board member for the New York Upstate Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council, & a member of the Chapter’s Education Committee. She is also a Reviewer/Auditor for USGBC’s Education Providers’ Program, contributing to the development of educational programs for LEED Accredited Professionals. She led the team that created Public Day for the American Solar Energy Conference held in Buffalo in 2009, and is GPRO-trained to conduct workshops for construction professionals on green & LEED projects. Roxanne has a Master of Architecture degree and a Bachelor of Environmental Studies degree from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Canada.
Bob Bechtold
HARBEC
President and Founder
Bob Bechtold is the president and founder of Harbec Plastics, Inc., a progressive injection molding company located in upstate New York, which provides a full service of model making, precision mold making, and complex precision plastic injection molding. His company believes strongly in the value of Eco-Economics and during the past decade he
has developed an energy management strategy that includes a cogeneration project which currently provides a portion of their electricity, heat, and air-conditioning requirements. Harbec is one of the first companies in the world to successfully implement a completely
micro-turbine powered combined heat and power plant. During the same period, Harbec has attained ISO 9000 and QS 9000 certifications for quality control and assurance, and they have received ISO 14000 certification to demonstrate environmental responsibility.
In 2002 Harbec added a renewable energy component to its energy management strategy, which was a 250 kW wind turbine. The third element of this strategy includes 100% green power which is purchased from the grid. The company's vehicle fleet is 100% ‘Green’ and includes all-electric, hybrid-electric, alt-fuel CNG, and Bio-diesel. Their latest building expansion was done in conjunction with the principles of LEEDS and includes features such as in-floor radiant heating, daylight gathering, and double insulated siding and roofing. Even the normal waste plastic material from the molding and machining processes is recycled into plastic lumber and other products by associated companies.
Currently, Harbec is focused on quantifying its Carbon Footprint with the help of the EPA’s Climate Leaders Program and has committed to be Carbon Neutral by 2013. Most recently they have expanded these successful experiences along with the assistance of the Wayne County Economic Development Agency to include an adjoining property which will share the energy strategies and efficiencies implemented at Harbec to provide power and thermal requirements to Northern Biodiesel, Inc., NY State’s first large scale biodiesel production company.
In 2002, Harbec was awarded the EPA Energy Star for Small Business, in 2003 it received the Society of Plastic Engineers’ Environmental Stewardship Award, in 2004 the EPA/DOE Green Power Leadership Award, in 2006 NYS Water Environment Assoc. presented to Harbec their Industrial Pollution Prevention Award, and in 2007 they received
the NY State Industrial Achievement Award from NYWEA. Bob has served on the Board of
Directors of Clean Air - Cool Planet and currently serves on the Boards of Ahead Energy,and B9 Plastics, Inc.
President and Founder
Bob Bechtold is the president and founder of Harbec Plastics, Inc., a progressive injection molding company located in upstate New York, which provides a full service of model making, precision mold making, and complex precision plastic injection molding. His company believes strongly in the value of Eco-Economics and during the past decade he
has developed an energy management strategy that includes a cogeneration project which currently provides a portion of their electricity, heat, and air-conditioning requirements. Harbec is one of the first companies in the world to successfully implement a completely
micro-turbine powered combined heat and power plant. During the same period, Harbec has attained ISO 9000 and QS 9000 certifications for quality control and assurance, and they have received ISO 14000 certification to demonstrate environmental responsibility.
In 2002 Harbec added a renewable energy component to its energy management strategy, which was a 250 kW wind turbine. The third element of this strategy includes 100% green power which is purchased from the grid. The company's vehicle fleet is 100% ‘Green’ and includes all-electric, hybrid-electric, alt-fuel CNG, and Bio-diesel. Their latest building expansion was done in conjunction with the principles of LEEDS and includes features such as in-floor radiant heating, daylight gathering, and double insulated siding and roofing. Even the normal waste plastic material from the molding and machining processes is recycled into plastic lumber and other products by associated companies.
Currently, Harbec is focused on quantifying its Carbon Footprint with the help of the EPA’s Climate Leaders Program and has committed to be Carbon Neutral by 2013. Most recently they have expanded these successful experiences along with the assistance of the Wayne County Economic Development Agency to include an adjoining property which will share the energy strategies and efficiencies implemented at Harbec to provide power and thermal requirements to Northern Biodiesel, Inc., NY State’s first large scale biodiesel production company.
In 2002, Harbec was awarded the EPA Energy Star for Small Business, in 2003 it received the Society of Plastic Engineers’ Environmental Stewardship Award, in 2004 the EPA/DOE Green Power Leadership Award, in 2006 NYS Water Environment Assoc. presented to Harbec their Industrial Pollution Prevention Award, and in 2007 they received
the NY State Industrial Achievement Award from NYWEA. Bob has served on the Board of
Directors of Clean Air - Cool Planet and currently serves on the Boards of Ahead Energy,and B9 Plastics, Inc.
Roy Wood
Senior Environmental Engineer
Eastman Kodak Company
Rochester, NY
Roy Wood is a senior environmental engineer with Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, NY. His current responsibilities include life cycle assessment, design for the environment, product energy
efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions. He has also worked in air pollution control and testing, waste incineration, wastewater treatment, and environmental policy. He is a licensed Professional Engineer, has a Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering and a Master's Degree in Environmental Studies. His thesis was an evaluation of the optimal approach to controlling climate change using a Monte Carlo simulation of expert opinions within various cost/benefit frameworks.
Eastman Kodak Company
Rochester, NY
Roy Wood is a senior environmental engineer with Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, NY. His current responsibilities include life cycle assessment, design for the environment, product energy
efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions. He has also worked in air pollution control and testing, waste incineration, wastewater treatment, and environmental policy. He is a licensed Professional Engineer, has a Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering and a Master's Degree in Environmental Studies. His thesis was an evaluation of the optimal approach to controlling climate change using a Monte Carlo simulation of expert opinions within various cost/benefit frameworks.
Roger Caldwell
MEMC/SunEdison
Roger Caldwell has global responsibilities for implementing solar energy coupled with electricity storage in both on-grid and off-grid applications for MEMC/SunEdison. His background includes 19 years of technology development in a wide variety of sciences including semiconductor, micro-lithogrpahy, and fiber optic comminucations. He is an accomplished inventor with 11 patents, and has managed development organizations consisting of operations, engineering, manufacturing, and software development. He holds a BS ChE degree from the University of Texas.
Roger Caldwell has global responsibilities for implementing solar energy coupled with electricity storage in both on-grid and off-grid applications for MEMC/SunEdison. His background includes 19 years of technology development in a wide variety of sciences including semiconductor, micro-lithogrpahy, and fiber optic comminucations. He is an accomplished inventor with 11 patents, and has managed development organizations consisting of operations, engineering, manufacturing, and software development. He holds a BS ChE degree from the University of Texas.
Dan Spitzer
Partner
Environment & Energy Practice Group
Renewable Energy Practice Group
Buffalo Office
Mr. Spitzer is a frequent speaker and author on renewable energy, land use and zoning, and municipal law. Recently he participated in a national American Planning Association webcast on "Planning Law Trends." He spoke at the 2009 annual conference of the Association of Towns, where he participated in a presentation on climate change. He also participated in a presentation with representatives of the Department of Environmental Conservation on "Emerging State Environmental Quality Review Act Trends." He presented "Creating Clean Energy, More Jobs: Building A Wind Park in New York State" at the annual convention of the New York State Society of Professional Engineers. Mr. Spitzer drafted the inaugural chapter on municipal annexation for the fourth edition of New York Zoning Law and Practice, published by West in 2009. His recent articles include "State Tax Laws Give Certainty," North American Windpower, May 2010, and "Examining NYPA's Project Rules," North American Windpower, June 2009. He is also the co-author of "A Guide to Regulating Big Box Stores, Franchise Architecture, and Formula Businesses," New York Zoning Law and Practice Report, 2007.
Environment & Energy Practice Group
Renewable Energy Practice Group
Buffalo Office
Mr. Spitzer is a frequent speaker and author on renewable energy, land use and zoning, and municipal law. Recently he participated in a national American Planning Association webcast on "Planning Law Trends." He spoke at the 2009 annual conference of the Association of Towns, where he participated in a presentation on climate change. He also participated in a presentation with representatives of the Department of Environmental Conservation on "Emerging State Environmental Quality Review Act Trends." He presented "Creating Clean Energy, More Jobs: Building A Wind Park in New York State" at the annual convention of the New York State Society of Professional Engineers. Mr. Spitzer drafted the inaugural chapter on municipal annexation for the fourth edition of New York Zoning Law and Practice, published by West in 2009. His recent articles include "State Tax Laws Give Certainty," North American Windpower, May 2010, and "Examining NYPA's Project Rules," North American Windpower, June 2009. He is also the co-author of "A Guide to Regulating Big Box Stores, Franchise Architecture, and Formula Businesses," New York Zoning Law and Practice Report, 2007.
Larry LaDuca
Natale Builders
MBA from the University at Buffalo EMBA class 2000. Business Development Consultant currently working full time for Natale Builders. Leading Natale’s pursuit of Green/Net-Zero buildings for residential and commercial application. The First Green development in WNY is Rivera Greens www.riveragreens.com. The First Green Net-Zero home at #1 Nicholas in Lancaster will be completed October 31st 2011. Incorporated into all Natale Rivera Greens homes and #1 Nicholas are the following features:
o Geothermal heating and cooling systems
o Solar panels with a min. 6kw output
o SIS and SIP panel construction with superior insulation approaching R-50
o Green elements of design throughout including, No voc paints, cork floors, Amish built kitchens, Superior wall basements, etc.
MBA from the University at Buffalo EMBA class 2000. Business Development Consultant currently working full time for Natale Builders. Leading Natale’s pursuit of Green/Net-Zero buildings for residential and commercial application. The First Green development in WNY is Rivera Greens www.riveragreens.com. The First Green Net-Zero home at #1 Nicholas in Lancaster will be completed October 31st 2011. Incorporated into all Natale Rivera Greens homes and #1 Nicholas are the following features:
o Geothermal heating and cooling systems
o Solar panels with a min. 6kw output
o SIS and SIP panel construction with superior insulation approaching R-50
o Green elements of design throughout including, No voc paints, cork floors, Amish built kitchens, Superior wall basements, etc.
Dr. Anahita Williamson
New York State Pollution Prevention Center
Anahita Williamson has a strong background and extensive experience in the field of environmental engineering, including manufacturing process modification for improved material recovery and reuse, design for the environment and life-cycle assessment. Prior to joining NYSP2I, she served as a senior engineer at Xerox Corporation where she assisted in implementing companywide sustainability and pollution prevention processes. Williamson led numerous teams at Xerox Corporation in defining environmental opportunities within processes/products by optimizing complex systems. She performed detailed material and energy balances on manufacturing processes in order to develop a quantitative baseline and capture all environmental inputs and outputs for a system. Dr. Williamson also has extensive experience in utilizing life-cycle assessment (LCA) methodology for evaluating the environmental performance of a process/product over its entire life-cycle and has performed multiple LCAs throughout her career. She has multiple peer-reviewed publications including the Journal of Cleaner Production and has presented at numerous international conferences including the International Society of Industrial Ecology conference in Stockholm, Sweden.
Dr. Williamson is a Lean Six Sigma certified Greenbelt. She understands the importance of applying lean thinking when defining the root causes of deficiencies in processes and utilizing lean tools when implementing solutions. Dr. Williamson holds a BS in chemical engineering and MS and Ph.D. in civil and environmental engineering, all from Clarkson University
Anahita Williamson has a strong background and extensive experience in the field of environmental engineering, including manufacturing process modification for improved material recovery and reuse, design for the environment and life-cycle assessment. Prior to joining NYSP2I, she served as a senior engineer at Xerox Corporation where she assisted in implementing companywide sustainability and pollution prevention processes. Williamson led numerous teams at Xerox Corporation in defining environmental opportunities within processes/products by optimizing complex systems. She performed detailed material and energy balances on manufacturing processes in order to develop a quantitative baseline and capture all environmental inputs and outputs for a system. Dr. Williamson also has extensive experience in utilizing life-cycle assessment (LCA) methodology for evaluating the environmental performance of a process/product over its entire life-cycle and has performed multiple LCAs throughout her career. She has multiple peer-reviewed publications including the Journal of Cleaner Production and has presented at numerous international conferences including the International Society of Industrial Ecology conference in Stockholm, Sweden.
Dr. Williamson is a Lean Six Sigma certified Greenbelt. She understands the importance of applying lean thinking when defining the root causes of deficiencies in processes and utilizing lean tools when implementing solutions. Dr. Williamson holds a BS in chemical engineering and MS and Ph.D. in civil and environmental engineering, all from Clarkson University
Kevin Miller
NY Department of Transportation
Regional Landscape Architect.
Kevin is responsible for directing the work of the Landscape Architecture / Environmental Analysis Unit in the Highway Design group. The LAEA Unit performs the Social, Economic and Environmental investigations for the Regions Capital Program, provides design and guidance for pedestrian, bicycle and ADA accommodations on Department projects and provides Context Sensitive Solutions to integrate the transportation system into the natural and cultural landscape.
Kevin has worked for the Rochester Office since 1984. He has served in a variety of different capacities including; Regional Cultural Resource Coordinator, Design Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator, Regional Noise Specialist and NEPA/SEQR specialist among others. He has recently been designated as the Regions Sustainability Manager. He has been the project Landscape Architect for many projects over his 27 year career including: the Frederick Douglas / Susan B. Anthony Memorial Bridge in downtown Rochester; the I490 Western Gateway project in Rochester; the Route 104 Multi-use Trail in Webster; and the I490/ Route 441 Interchange Reconstruction in Brighton. He has also been on the design teams for several Main Street reconstruction projects in the Region including the villages of Naples, Nunda, Bloomfield and Mount Morris.
Kevin is a 82' graduate of Washington State University, earning a B.S. in Landscape Architecture.
Regional Landscape Architect.
Kevin is responsible for directing the work of the Landscape Architecture / Environmental Analysis Unit in the Highway Design group. The LAEA Unit performs the Social, Economic and Environmental investigations for the Regions Capital Program, provides design and guidance for pedestrian, bicycle and ADA accommodations on Department projects and provides Context Sensitive Solutions to integrate the transportation system into the natural and cultural landscape.
Kevin has worked for the Rochester Office since 1984. He has served in a variety of different capacities including; Regional Cultural Resource Coordinator, Design Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator, Regional Noise Specialist and NEPA/SEQR specialist among others. He has recently been designated as the Regions Sustainability Manager. He has been the project Landscape Architect for many projects over his 27 year career including: the Frederick Douglas / Susan B. Anthony Memorial Bridge in downtown Rochester; the I490 Western Gateway project in Rochester; the Route 104 Multi-use Trail in Webster; and the I490/ Route 441 Interchange Reconstruction in Brighton. He has also been on the design teams for several Main Street reconstruction projects in the Region including the villages of Naples, Nunda, Bloomfield and Mount Morris.
Kevin is a 82' graduate of Washington State University, earning a B.S. in Landscape Architecture.
The 2011 ESW National Conference is organized by ESW Buffalo Chapter and supported by generous sponsors. For more information on program content, email Mike Alcazaren or call (716) 597-7820.