Project Vanguard Speakers Bureau

Steve Bravo graduated from the Naval Academy in 2003 and spent 10 years active duty in the Navy as a helicopter pilot, deploying to the Persian Gulf three times. He joined the clean energy industry in 2013 through General Electric's Junior Officer Leadership Program (JOLP). He spent nine years at GE as part of their Onshore wind and battery energy storage businesses, all in product development roles. In 2021, he joined battery storage integrator Fluence where he helped stand up their product development team after their IPO. In late 2024 he joined New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) as their Director of Commercialization focusing on supporting clean energy startups for the NY market.

Sales Director and 2026 Project Vanguard Community Leader Fellow for the New York City chapter.

Jim Purekal retired from the Marine Corps in 2021 as a highly decorated Major after twenty years of service, primarily as a helicopter pilot, and then ending his career as a congressional liaison and legislative affairs officer. He started working for SunPower Corporation in January 2021 as the policy manager for the Southeast region. During his time with SunPower, Jim served as the Board President for the Chesapeake Solar and Storage Association (CHESSA) in 2022. In October 2023, he joined the policy team of Advanced Energy United and currently serves as a Director focusing on outreach to lawmakers, state level Siting reform for key states across the country, and as the legislative lead for the state of Virginia. He has a bachelor's degree in political science from Tufts University in Medford, MA and a master's in international economics from American University in Washington, DC. He currently lives in Norfolk, Virginia with his wife and daughter.

With over 20 years of experience in the land acquisition and real estate industry, Rickey brings the experience to build, manage and lead a team to acquire and develop projects of all types. He has a strong background in Title, Appraisal, Negotiations and Relocations as well as Project Management. He has used this experience to come up with innovative ways to acquire land for renewable projects over the past 8 years. Currently working with Rinker Design Associates to build the Alternative Energy programs as the Director of Business Development for Land Acquisition and Utilities Departments. In addition, he has been the project development manager for all types of renewable energy projects for wind, solar and battery storage as well as a consultant on green hydrogen projects.

Lourdes Spurlock is a Navy veteran who began her career operating nuclear reactors on aircraft carriers at just 17 and later worked on building submarines and carriers before transitioning to renewable energy. She now serves as Preconstruction Manager at Apex Clean Energy, helping design and build wind and solar projects across the country, including Virginia's first onshore wind project, Rocky Forge Wind. A Mechanical Engineering Technology graduate from Old Dominion University, Lourdes is passionate about mentoring students in STEM and construction and has shared her story as a keynote speaker for audiences ranging from grade schools to high schools to colleges throughout Virginia. She has appeared on local news channels, in a Navy commercial, and in Energy Superheroes: Women in Energy Careers. Outside of her work, Lourdes is the reigning Mrs. Virginia International 2026 and is currently accepting requests for public speaking and appearances.

A Navy submarine veteran, now a Business Development Manager at Cypress Creek Renewables, fueled by an unwavering passion for renewable energy, process improvement, and re-engineering. His journey has been shaped by over two decades of dynamic cross-functional experience, spanning field engineering, project management, sales, and customer-centric roles.

Alex Hydrean is a Senior Manager in the Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC) at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). In this role, he oversees the deployment of federal programs to expand domestic manufacturing of advanced energy products and make improvements to manufacturing facilities to increase their efficiency and competitiveness. Prior to DOE, Alex worked for the state of New Jersey to design and deploy clean energy programs. Alex is a Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserves. He previously served on active duty in the U.S. Navy as a nuclear submarine officer onboard the USS San Francisco (SSN-711) and later as a nuclear arms control inspection team leader. He is currently assigned to a unit supporting U.S. European Command out of Fort Dix, NJ. Alex earned a B.S. in Engineering from Cornell University, a Master of Engineering Management from Old Dominion University, and a Master in Public Affairs from Princeton University. In his free time, he serves on the Somerset County Energy Council in New Jersey.

Michael enlisted in the Army and served seven years in the Army and National Guard. After his military service, he returned to school, earning his bachelor's and MBA. He found his way to clean energy while working in the Energy Practice at the Boston Consulting Group. Now he leads market intelligence activities for Qcells, where he plays a key role in shaping market strategy and evaluating policy impacts within clean energy.

Jon is the director of corporate operations at USCE, a clean energy platform and holding company operating in the solar, energy storage, and building decarbonization sectors. Jon has broad energy sector experience, including M&A, FP&A, utility project management, wholesale market analysis, and risk modeling. He holds an MS in Finance from Georgetown's McDonough School of Business, an MA in International Law and Diplomacy from The Fletcher School at Tufts University, and a BA in Government from Georgetown University. Jon began his career in the United States Marine Corps, where he served in infantry and technology development roles.

Greg Gebhardt is a seasoned energy executive and U.S. Army veteran with more than a decade of experience shaping clean-energy policy and large-scale project development across the Southeast. As Director of Government Affairs at Cypress Creek Renewables, he leads strategic engagement with utilities, regulators, and policymakers to accelerate investment in reliable, affordable solar and storage solutions. A Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army Reserve and a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Greg brings a mission-driven approach to energy, connecting national security, economic development, and sustainability. His work has helped position North Carolina and neighboring states as emerging leaders in energy innovation and large-load industrial growth.

Marcy Bauer is the Senior Vice President of Special Operations at EVgo, with responsibility for EV charger commissioning and upkeep, compliance with the various contracts associated with each charger deployment, acquisition and management of public funding, and company-wide training. Ms. Bauer has worked in the clean transportation space for over 15 years, and her experience spans the entire sector – OEM engagement, consumer and fleet education, charging station site development and host engagement, public policy, utility engagement, and industry analysis. Ms. Bauer earned her Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology from Vanderbilt University, her Master of Environmental Science from Miami University in Ohio, and served as an officer in the US Army's Military Intelligence Corps.

Sean Salas is a military veteran of 6.5 years Special Operations experience in the United States Navy, having served as a Navy Diver. He is currently the Vice President of Sales at JLL on the Energy Advisory team, advocating for Energy Advisory and Sustainability initiatives across Fortune 500 clients across the US. Sean has previously held business development leadership roles at Galehead Development, NextEra, Hanwha QCELLS, and NRG. He was also the CEO of Veteran Owned Solar, a community solar EPC and installation company building solar across the Northeast, TX, and other markets in the US. Sean holds an MBA and a Master's in Organizational Management from Wayland Baptist University. He is active in veteran advocacy in the energy industry at both the state and federal level.

As the Business Process Optimization Senior Associate at Leeward Renewable Energy, Brittainny is a workforce transformation leader, she turns ambiguity into clarity and change into measurable business value. She builds strategies, systems, and learning experiences that strengthen capability, reduce risk, and prepare organizations for what's next. With deep experience in enterprise leadership and a 20-year military background from the Air Force, she excels in complexity, aligns people and processes, and delivers scalable results.

Brad Quigley is a retired Senior Non-Commissioned Officer with nearly 26 years of service in the United States Army. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Solar Ranch Xperts, a veteran-owned business, Brad keeps his team focused on vegetation management. Their sheep keep vegetation from shading the solar panels, reduce the fire fuel loads, improve soil biodiversity, and connect the solar development company with the local community. With an American Solar Grazing Association solar grazing certification and expertise in grazing practices, Brad's team delivers sustainable solutions that prioritize energy production, environmental stewardship, and agricultural productivity. Brad's mission is to empower communities to grow nutritious food and revitalize ecosystems, while creating sustainable livelihoods. He believes energy security is national security.

Barrett Thomas joined Apex Clean Energy after retiring from the Army following 20 years of service as an Infantry officer. During his time in the Army, he deployed three times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, taught Environmental Engineering at the United States Military Academy, and served across the globe in every level of leadership from platoon leader to battalion commander. Barrett's time in uniform, witnessing the ever-increasing need for power, inspired him to start his new career as a renewable energy developer of wind, solar, battery storage, and green fuel projects. Barrett earned his bachelor's degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point and a master's degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

Cress is the Chief Operating Officer of Berg Enterprises, Inc. (BEI). BEI provides turnkey HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, and pipefitting services in select federal and commercial markets across the Southwestern United States. While he currently calls Houston home, Cress was raised in North Carolina. After graduating from NC State, he served as an infantry officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. Cress has also worked with various non-profit organizations serving the local community, including Travis Manion Foundation and Combined Arms. He previously worked at Harvey Builders, where he helped manage projects in some of Houston's most iconic buildings.

Kyle is a former submarine nuclear electrician who spent 10 years in the U.S. Navy. His experience on a submarine, where resources are limited, inspired him to pursue renewable energy, recognizing that Earth's resources are also finite and must be used efficiently while seeking sustainable alternatives. He now works at Miller Brothers in Springfield, IL.

A former Marine, Jimmy is an experienced Land Consultant with a demonstrated history of working in the energy industry. Skilled in negotiations for the acquisition and development of mineral and surface real estate. A strong real estate professional graduated from University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

Executive with 25+ years in the energy sector, known for driving growth, operational excellence, and organizational agility. Combines deep expertise in P&L management, project leadership, and Six Sigma with a people-focused approach grounded in clear communication and strong partnerships. Committed to a cleaner energy future, he brings a holistic, strategic perspective to solving problems and empowering teams.

After retiring from the United States Air Force in 2017, Alex embarked on a mission to integrate military training and mentorship into an employee-focused environment in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Founding M3, he successfully implemented this vision. Alex identified a market for HVAC energy and air purification, attracting dedicated technicians seeking a change. His approach has drawn interest from major energy reduction and air purification companies eager to collaborate with M3. Alex, married to Jennifer, is a proud parent of three children and 2 grandchildren.

Brian Flis is the Founder of LF Bioenergy and Managing Partner of RenewAg Advisors, where he focuses on developing and financing renewable natural gas (RNG) and waste-to-value projects across the agricultural sector. Under his leadership, he raised $50 million of private equity funding for LF Bioenergy, built 7 projects and sold half of the business to Marathon Petroleum in 2023. Through RenewAg Advisors, he continues to advance sustainable agriculture by helping farmers and investors identify, structure, and scale high-impact RNG and waste-to-energy opportunities.

Will leads Prometheus Wind, where he specializes in personnel development and organizational design. Drawing on programs he built for military special operations and the U.S. Air Force Academy, he develops technicians and leaders to thrive. He pairs this with clear, empowering systems that drive engagement, safety, and quality across the organization.

Chamai served six years in the Oregon Army National Guard as a Chinook helicopter crew member. Her transition into the energy industry was fueled by a passion for innovation and sustainability. As Vice President of Strategy and Execution at Gambek Metals, she leads global initiatives that drive growth, operational excellence, and innovation across clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and materials supply chains. Previously, she served as Strategic Futures Innovation Manager at the Arizona Commerce Authority. She holds an Executive Global MBA from Thunderbird and a Mechanical Engineering degree from Colorado School of Mines.

Nick is a veteran of both the Marines and the Army National Guard. After leaving the military, Nick joined the clean energy industry as a wind technician. He continued to rise in the field, eventually starting his own wind technician training company in Las Vegas, NV.

Joshua is a former Army combat medic. After his service, he transitioned into tech and sustainability and helped start up and lead multiple ventures in the renewables distributed generation sector. Currently, he works at Copia Power as a Senior Development Manager.

Tyler LeRoy is the Innovation Manager at the CleanTech Alliance, a non-profit trade association, where he provides strategic direction for their clean tech innovation clusters (Fusion, Built Environment, & Carbon Management). Before working in clean energy, Tyler was an Army Engineer Officer primarily serving with Army Engineer Dive Detachments. He's passionate about building the Pacific Northwest into a hub for climate innovation and enjoys helping fellow veterans find purpose in the clean tech transition.

William is currently an Asset Manager of wind and solar farms at Geronimo Power, with over 3 years of experience in the role. During his time, he started and led the Veterans' Employee Resource Group (VERG) and is in the process of starting a Veteran Rotation Program to help onboard more veterans to the company. Prior to moving to the Minneapolis area, he spent 8 years in the US Navy as a Nuclear Reactor Operator, stationed on the USS Theodore Roosevelt in San Diego and at the prototype in Saratoga Springs.

Josh has spent his career at the intersection of clean energy, technical training, and safety — helping field teams gain the skills and confidence to perform beyond compliance. From building scalable training programs to designing hands-on learning for technicians, he makes complex operations safer, smarter, and more reliable, allowing others to thrive. He supports technicians, managers, and companies in building safe, competent teams without confusing, costly training programs. He leads organizations in creating effective internal training programs that actually stick — no expensive consultants, no confusing frameworks, just outcome-driven content that connects directly to the work. He assists companies in finding the right hands-on training providers and tools to get their teams safe, competent, and confident without wasting time or money on programs that don't deliver real results. His focus is the integration of training that produces results into organizational culture, building a retention-focused environment where technicians and managers grow safely and efficiently, with learning tied directly to their daily work.

Navy veteran with 10+ years leading cross-functional teams, high-profile communications, and climate-focused policy work. Experienced in federal climate policy, energy security research, and interagency coordination, with publications across renewable energy and climate risk. A former Military Social Aide to President Biden with TS/SCI clearance, she now manages utility-scale wind and solar development projects and brings extensive expertise in program leadership, stakeholder engagement, and complex project execution. Megan now works at Vestas as a Senior Development Manager.

Alex is a former infantry officer who specializes in power procurement for large utility-scale renewable and dispatchable generating assets for Guzman Energy, a major disruptor in Western energy markets. He has experience in project management, strategy development, contract negotiations, and financial modeling. He loves being part of, and leading, high performing teams as they tackle complex business problems.