12 directors join Arkansas Advanced Energy boards

EnergyNews Briefs

by Jeff Della Rosa ([email protected]) January 16, 2024 2:07 pm 1,025 views 

Arkansas Advanced Energy Association (AAEA) and Arkansas Advanced Energy Foundation (AAEF) have appointed 12 directors to their respective boards, according to a Tuesday (Jan. 16) news release.

The AAEA board added seven, while the AAEF board added five new directors. The new directors were approved by organization members at the annual meeting and policy conference of AAEA in November. Board member terms started Jan. 1.

Following joined the AAEA board:

  • Elisabeth Bates, head of business development, Pedal Steel Solar
  • Sue Emry, executive vice president, Envirotech
  • Clark Medlock, director, energy efficiency programs, Summit Utilities
  • Michael Parker, president, Entegrity Energy Partners
  • Pete Richardson, CEO, Cor Solar and Electric
  • Sam Selig, senior vice president for renewable energy, Bernhard
  • Chris Thomason, vice president for planning and development, University of Arkansas System

Alex Ray is AAEA board chair.

Following are the new AAEF directors:

  • Glen Hooks, policy director, Audubon Delta
  • Chris Kell, partner, Payne Kell LLC Sustainability Solutions Group
  • Wes Prewett, strategy analyst, Southern Bancorp
  • Garry Rodger, business development manager, Greentech Renewables
  • Skip Woessner, vice president, operations development, Clear Energy

Elston Blake Forte is AAEF board chair.

“We are proud to announce the appointment of new board members who bring a wealth of expertise from various industry sectors including finance, electric vehicles and academia,” said AAEA Executive Director Lauren Waldrip. “Their unique perspectives are essential for the advancement of our state’s economy, as they contribute to innovation, job creation, workforce development and economic growth. The inclusion of these leaders on our board reaffirms our commitment to a broad representation of the advanced energy industry. As they join a growing list of impressive leadership, their involvement will significantly enhance our efforts to advance the state’s energy landscape and economic prospects. Together, we are eager to harness the potential of advanced energy to further economic development in Arkansas.”

The first board meeting for the new directors took place in Little Rock last week. AAEA is the business voice for advanced energy in Arkansas. AAEF promotes advanced energy in Arkansas through research, education programs and economic and workforce development.