Caio Zapata

CEO, ENESTAS Energy & Gas

Caio is an entrepreneur and executive director with more than 15 years of experience working on the operational and financial restructuring of different companies in the manufacturing, power generation and natural gas industries.
Taking advantage of the energy reform in Mexico, he founded ENESTAS Energy & Gas, developing one of the largest natural gas distribution networks in North America.
Additionally, Caio has successfully restructured more than 8 companies in Mexico, Brazil and Central America.
Besides acting as counselor of different companies in the pharmaceutical, food and manufacturing industries.
Educational background:
• Industrial engineer graduated from the Universidad Iberoamericana and MBA from IESE Business School.
• Certified as Black Belt in Six Sigma in addition to having graduated of several negotiation courses, M & A and Corporate Strategy in Harvard, MIT, Chicago Booth and London Business School.

Dallas D. Smith

Director of LNG & Offshore & General Manager of LISCR Houston, LISCR

Mike Sicker

SVP of Business Development - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Oil & Gas Division

Michael Sicker is the Senior Vice President of Business Development & Strategy for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Oil & Gas Division. As the Global Account Manager he is responsible for developing new markets and strategies for the continued growth of Mitsubishi's presence in the Americas, specifically in the LNG arena. Mr. Sicker started his career with Mitsubishi International Corporation in 1992, in the Akron, Ohio office and has worked in various management positions in the Oil & Gas sector since 2005. Thomas Edison State College.

Kareemah F. Mohamed

Global Energy Transition Advisory Lead, KBR

Kareemah Mohamed is a leader in energy markets with expertise at the crux of public policy strategy, supply chain and commercial models for new energies.
Currently she is leading KBR Advisory's Energy Transition business focused on Net- Zero solutions in line with the Paris accord. She is focused on carbon abatement for industrial clusters, government master planning strategies and low-carbon fuel solutions, including the hydrogen supply chain from generation to end-use.
She previously served as Director, Research and Consulting at IHS Markit focused on the impact of digitalization on advancing climate change as well as upstream strategy planning for IEC's and major oil and gas companies. Ms. Mohamed is also the founder of a growth accelerator, LARK Strategy Partners focused adapting business models in the digital age, with an emphasis on the circular economy.
She is a frequent speaker at conferences including CERAWeek, SPE, Energy Council, Hydrogen Congress and Women in Energy.
A Geoscientist by background, she has worked in R&D and development capacities at Marathon Oil and ConocoPhillips in domestic and international roles throughout her career. She was also previously Managing Director at Associated Geosciences- a consulting firm specializing in oil and gas acquisition and divestiture strategy globally.
Ms. Mohamed holds a Bachelor's in Petroleum Engineering, Master's in Geoscience and various advanced credentials from The Wharton School, Stanford and CFA Institute.
She is a national of Trinidad and Tobago and is passionate about the leadership role of women in the energy transition.

Jillian C. Evanko

Chief Executive Officer and President at Chart Industries, Inc.

Jillian (Jill) Evanko is President and Chief Executive Officer of Chart Industries, Inc. (NYSE: GTLS), serving in this capacity since June of 2018. Ms. Evanko joined Chart in February of 2017 as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining Chart, Jill was the Chief Financial Officer of Truck-Lite Co., LLC as well as having held multiple operational and financial executive positions at Dover Corporation (NYSE: DOV) and its subsidiaries. Prior to joining Dover in 2004, Ms. Evanko held financial and operational roles at Arthur Andersen, LLP, Honeywell Corporation and Sony Corporation. In addition to serving on Chart's Board of Directors, Ms. Evanko also serves as an independent director of the Board of Parker Hannifin Corporation (NYSE: PH) as well as a director on the Board of McPhy (Euronext Paris: MCPHY - ISIN: FR0011742329).
Jill received a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from The University of Notre Dame and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from La Salle University. She is the winner of the 2020 ExxonMobil Power Play Rainmaker award, the 2020 S&P Global Platts Energy Award for Chief Trailblazer, and the World LNG Executive of the Year 2020. She serves on the non-profit Board of Directors of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).

Daryl Wilson

Executive Director, Hydrogen Council

Daryl Wilson is a versatile leader with more than 35 years of progressive industrial management experience in environmental technology, operations, manufacturing, human resources, product development, and organizational change developed in world class organisations, including Dofasco, Toyota, and Zenon Environmental. For the last 14 years, Daryl Wilson served as CEO of Hydrogenics, a leading provider of advanced hydrogen solutions.

Steve Almeida Jr.

Director of Fuel Cells / Clean Heat & Power, Aris

Steve Almeida Jr. is a seasoned Energy Professional with over 25 + years energy experience. Steve started his career in energy, while serving aboard U.S. Nuclear Submarines. Steve earned his Baccalaureate in Intl Affairs/Intl Businesses, substantiating his global experience, while studying abroad in Stockholm, Sweden and then Paris, France at the prestigious Sciences-Po [Paris]. Steve then worked as a Graduate Assistant at Center of Energy Technology of The Americas CETA, earning his degree at Florida International University [Cum Laude].
Steve cut his teeth in deregulated energy markets in Ontario, Canada prior to returning to New York. Steve continued as Sr. Energy Advisor during his ESCO days from 2004-2010. He is widely recognized as one who cultivates relationships, always addressing the "Customer's Why"! Steve performed duties while Energy Consultant to some of the largest school districts in CT [Bridgeport, New Haven & Stamford]. Seeing volatile swing in energy prices, Steve worked as Energy Advisor at Tradition Energy, one of the largest Energy Brokers in the world, then moved towards the regulated side, bringing added value to Con Edison's Energy Efficiency Team. Shortly after Super Storm Sandy, made it his mission to ensure Con Edison Large Commercial Customers [Banks, Data Centers, Hotels, and select Property Management Firms] had an in- depth understanding of utility-based incentive programs. During his tenure - Steve was regularly sourced for emerging trends such as distributed energy resources and demand response. He was instrumental in securing commitments from key customers across the Banking Segment to participate in Utility and NYISO Programs - whereby customers monetize respective buildings earning payment for agreeing to curtail energy during peak load times established by the utility/ISO.
Earning a strong reputation amid large property owners and operators is widely recognized, as one who gets the job done and always follows up, Steve currently serves as Director of Fuel Cells & Combined Heat & Power at Aris Energy Solutions LLC. He is an established Distributed Generation expert, contributing towards the continued development and widespread adoption of "Next Generation" Fuel Cell based microCHP. Steve is credited as being chiefly responsible for SOLIDpower's introduction to the U.S. Market. "Fuel Cells are classified as Renewables in CA, CT and NY. Hence, their offering should be optimized across energy markets as the re-introduction of the Investment Tax Credit is a strong financial incentive to do so."
Aris is an Energy Services Company which achieves energy efficiency savings, enhances and extends customer implementation of Renewable Energy via unique product line, featuring solar, small wind, CHP and modular/small capacity fuel cells! Aris is credited with the 5 th Community Solar Project in N.Y. State. Steve sees limitless potential with Distributed Generation.ons.

Andrew Marsh

President and CEO, Plug Power

Andy Marsh joined Plug Power as President and CEO in April 2008. Under his leadership, Plug Power has been a leading innovator in the alternative energy field, helping create an entirely new hydrogen fuel cell (HFC) market in the material handling space as the world moves towards electrification in mobility applications. This new market has proven to be one of the first successful endeavors to commercialize HFC technology, and today, the firm's fuel cell solutions, including its GenKey suite and ProGen engine line, are leveraged by global marketplace leaders such as Amazon, Walmart, and Carrefour to power industrial electric vehicles.
As President and CEO, Marsh plans and directs all aspects of the organization's goals and objectives, and is focused on building a company that leverages Plug Power's combination of technological expertise, talented people and focus on sales growth to continue the company's leadership stance in the future alternative energy economy. Under his leadership, Plug Power continues to spearhead hydrogen fuel cell innovations in both mobility and stationary applications, and his ability to generate revenue growth of more than 296 percent since 2012 has landed Plug Power on Deloitte's Technology Fast 500TM list in both 2015 and 2016.
Previously, Mr. Marsh was a co-founder of Valere Power, where he served as CEO and Board Member from the Company's inception in 2001, through its sale to Eltek ASA in 2007. Under his leadership, Valere grew into a profitable global operation with over 200 employees and $90 million in revenue derived from the sale of DC power products to the telecommunications sector. During Mr. Marsh's tenure, Valere Power received many awards such as the Tech Titan award as the fastest growing technology company in the Dallas Fort Worth area and the Red Herring Top 100 Innovator Award. Prior to founding Valere, he spent almost 18 years with Lucent Bell Laboratories in a variety of sales and technical management positions.
Mr. Marsh is a member of the Board of Directors for the California Hydrogen Business Council, a non-profit group comprised of organizations and individuals involved in the business of hydrogen. He holds an MSEE from Duke University and an MBA from SMU. In August/September 2017, Mr. Marsh was invited to join the Global Hydrogen Council as well, an international council of major auto manufacturers which is focused on the proliferation of hydrogen fuel cell technologies.

David Alonso

Regional Vice President, New Equipment Sales, Mitsubishi Power

David Alonso is Region Vice President, New Equipment Sales for Mitsubishi Power Americas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Power LTD. Mitsubishi Power leads the industry in power generation and energy storage solutions. Committed to environmental protection and carbon reduction, Mitsubishi Power is at the forefront of green hydrogen and battery energy storage systems. Mr. Alonso is responsible for all aspects of the sales and marketing activities in the Eastern U.S.
Prior to joining Mitsubishi Power Americas, Mr. Alonso served as Region Vice President, Southeast Region for Siemens Power Systems Sales, where he was responsible for account management and product sales including generation equipment and service (fossil, nuclear, and renewable), transmission and distribution, and energy storage solutions for utility, IPP, and EPC customers across a 9 state region. Other key positions Mr. Alonso held while at Siemens include Sales Manager, Service Marketing Integration Manager, and New Unit Marketing Engineer. Mr. Alonso is well versed in electric utility industry trends and has a proven track record in leveraging a portfolio of products to meet customer demands and resolve challenges.
Mr. Alonso holds a Bachelor of Science in Management Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology and an MBA from the University of Florida. He and his wife live in Peachtree City, Georgia with their two sons and daughter.

Michael J. Graff

Chairman & CEO, American Air Liquide

Mike Graff joined Air Liquide in 2007 and currently serves as chairman, chief executive officer and president of American Air Liquide; executive vice president and executive committee member of Air Liquide Group; and chairman of the board of Airgas. Based in Houston, Graff leads business operations for the Americas and Asia-Pacific regions of Air Liquide Group and is the global chairman of the Group's Electronics business line.
Graff has over 35 years of global experience in the industrial gas, energy, refining, chemicals and polymers industries. He began his career with Amoco and BP, plc. and went on to serve as president or chief executive officer of several global chemical and polymer businesses.
Currently serving on the board of directors of Westlake Chemical Corporation, Graff also serves as an executive member of a number of industry and civic organizations, including the executive committee of the American Chemistry Council and chairman of its Responsible Care committee,as well as on the board of trustees of the Illinois Institute of Technology and the Engineering Advisory Council for Purdue University's College of Engineering. He is also a principal of the Bipartisan Policy Center's American Energy Innovation Council, a member of the National Petroleum Council and the United States Investment Advisory Council. Graff chairs the Committee on Competitiveness for the U.S. Department of Commerce and serves on the board of trustees of the Illinois Institute of Technology and the Engineering Advisory Council for Purdue University's College of Engineering.
Graff holds a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology and a master's degree in chemical engineering from Purdue University. In recognition of his professional achievement, Graff has been recognized by both universities as a distinguished alumnus. He has completed advanced studies at the University of Chicago, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Cambridge and the Stanford University Law School.
In addition, Graff participates in a variety of community service programs and activities. He is a strong advocate for STEM education, literacy and youth athletics. Graff is a member of the board or trustees for the George and Barbara Bush Foundation, the board of directors of Junior Achievement of Southeast Texas, the Leadership Council for Houston Methodist Hospital and the Baker Institute of Rice University.

Stan Knez

Chief Technology Officer, Technip Energies

Stan Knez is the Chief Technology Officer for Technip Energies and is part of the Executive Committee. In this role, Mr. Knez manages our technology portfolio, leads our innovation and R&D programs and oversees our product lines. He has more than 25 years of industry experience in the global upstream and downstream industry, strongly focused on technology portfolios and alliances.
Previously, Mr. Knez was Senior Vice President Process Technology of Technip Energies and its predecessor, TechnipFMC, President of Technip Stone & Webster Process Technology, and Executive Vice President of Technology for Shaw Energy & Chemicals Group. He also served as Vice President of Downstream Operations for KBR Energy and Chemicals.
Mr. Knez holds a master's degree in chemical engineering from Cleveland State University and an MBA in finance and international business from the University of St. Thomas. He earned his bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Case Western Reserve University.

Tim Cortes

Chief Technology Office, Plug Power

In 2021, Tim Cortes was promoted to Chief Technology Officer for Plug Power. His focus includes responsibility for the company's long-term technology strategy and vision. Mr. Cortes works with the leadership team to develop technology roadmaps, design solutions and implement processes that make technology development a significant differentiator for Plug Power. He collaborates with industry leaders and assesses customer needs to ensure that the organization proactively anticipates, supports, and solves technical problems in support of customer issues. Additionally, Mr. Cortes identifies potential M&A opportunities that will drive the technology roadmaps as well as position Plug Power to vertically integrate in key component and subsystem elements.
Tim Cortes joined Plug Power Inc. as Vice President of Hydrogen Energy Systems in January of 2015. In this role, Mr. Cortes was responsible for overseeing the GenFuel business, including interactions with customers, partners and suppliers critical to increasing Plug Power's growing market share within the hydrogen fuel industry. In 2020, Mr. Cortes added responsibilities for overseeing the business development efforts for Plug Power's electrolyzer products. As an important part of Plug Power's green hydrogen vertical integration strategy, the electrolyzer business is key to generating green hydrogen from renewable sources of power including solar, wind and hydro.
Prior to joining Plug Power, Mr. Cortes served as Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Engineering at Smiths Power. In these positions, he was responsible for research and development, as well as solutions for global applications. During his tenure at Smiths Power, Mr. Cortes led product line expansion that resulted in a doubling of revenue growth in less than six years.
Mr. Cortes holds a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from New Mexico State University. Additionally, he holds several patents covering power system architecture.

William J. Hickey

Detachment Chief, Liquefied Gas Carrier National Center of Expertise, U.S. Coast Guard

Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) Hickey serves as the Detachment Chief for the Coast Guards Liquefied Gas Carrier National Center of Expertise (LGC NCOE), and leads a team of liquefied gas subject matter experts who provide technical support to both the industry and the Coast Guard for all foreign and U.S. flagged vessels and barges that carry liquefied gases in bulk, liquefied gas terminals, low-flashpoint fuels (LFF) to include LFF Bunkering. In addition, his team serves as advisors on the development of Coast Guard policy, regulations, procedures and standards across the spectrum of Coast Guard activities related to liquefied gas. The LGC NCOE reports directly to the Coast Guards Chief Traveling Inspector at Coast Guard Headquarters.
LCDR Hickey is geographically diverse while successfully completing Coast Guard operational assignments in the Gulf, East and West coasts. Prior to his arrival to the LGC NCOE, he served as the Prevention Department Head at Marine Safety Unit (MSU) Lake Charles. There he oversaw and carried out Marine Safety operations across the full spectrum of Marine Safety Missions. Of particular note, he led the Coast Guards role serving as the navigation subject matter expert to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), State and local agencies throughout the permitting of over seven liquefied gas export terminals. Previous assignments include serving as the Supervisor of Marine Safety Detachment Fort Macon in Fort Macon, NC where he served as the Captain of the Port representative in one of our nation's Strategic Seaports while leading 18 in carrying out the Coast Guard's Marine Safety missions throughout eastern North Carolina. His other operational assignment include Chief of Port State Control at Sector Puget Sound in Seattle, WA and Assistant Chief of Domestic Inspections at MSU Texas City in Texas City, TX.
LCDR Hickey earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from the State University of New York Maritime in 2009; Coast Guard Third Assistant Engineering License of Unlimited Horsepower for Diesel, Steam and Gas Turbine engineering systems; and served in the Coast Guards six month Marine Industry Training Program. A native of Hamilton, NJ, LCDR Hickey resides in China, TX with his wife and four children Brinnley, Blayne, Liam and Hurley.

Amanda C. Duhon

Regional Director, North & Central America, EIC

As part of the EIC's Senior Management Team, Amanda plays an integral role in delivering the EIC's objectives and strategy across the North & Central America region. She adds value to EIC members by fostering key industry relationships, identifying business opportunities and promoting EIC members' interest across the energy sector.
Prior to joining the EIC, Amanda was Director, Business Development North America with Trade & Investment Queensland, Australia. Amanda has also held roles with the Department for International Trade (DIT); as Vice Consul for Energy, Environment and Infrastructure, Amanda led on trade and investment between the US and UK across the south-west US region with a focus on power, wind (onshore and offshore), environment and, transportation and water infrastructure. Previous to her now ten-year commitment to public service in the above roles, Amanda worked in private industry as a senior paralegal and policy analyst for over ten years.
Amanda holds various non-executive board positions, speaks at industry events, and is a mentor to young professionals in the Houston area. She has a keen interest in energy transition and the realization of net-zero.
On a personal note, Amanda has two children, Inez who is a Senior at the University of Houston and Maximilien who is in Pre-K. Amanda holds a BA in International Studies and a MA in Political Science with a focus on Public Policy and Administration.

Ann Rosenberg

SVP for Sustainability Solutions, Wood plc

A Denmark native, but a global citizen based in Los Angeles, Ann has 25 years of experience in the corporate world working with sustainability and purpose. She was part of founding SDG Ambition with UN Global Compact and has dedicated her life to serving as a trailblazer for the UN SDGs.
She launched SDG Ambition at the WEF in Davos, which challenges ands supports companies in being more strategic, and transformative in how they run their businesses to deliver on the 2030 Agenda and build on the ESG framework. SDG Ambition will challenge companies to set bolder goals aligned with their purpose, governance and strategy - and address barriers to speed and scale - with enterprise-wide integration that hardwires the SDGs into business management, business processes, and information technology landscapes. The first ambition launched was Business Ambition for 1.5 C. This ambition challenges companies to take bold action to redefine business models to limit the global temperature and mitigate climate change, which will require integration of new functionalities and datasets within the existing enterprise software for businesses to become sustainable enterprises. This includes carbon accounting across the value chain, carbon ledger approach, calculation of high-level carbon footprint, and more.
She also recently launched SAP Purpose Network Live to connect a community of changemakers committed to addressing the complexity caused by COVID-19. Attend upcoming virtual conversations to connect with likeminded individuals, exchange ideas and support the incredible initiatives presented by various organizations. Let's lay the foundation for a more sustainable future.

Drake Daniel Hernandez

Senior Associate, Charles River Associates (CRA)

Drake is a Senior Associate in Charles River Associates' (CRA) Energy Practice where he focuses on advising global clients as they develop strategies related to hydrogen economics and infrastructure development. Drake has also supported the development of expert testimony in multi-billion-dollar domestic litigation and international arbitration disputes related to energy infrastructure. Drake is an energy economist with expertise at the intersection of economics, regulation, and finance -- particular emphasis on the hydrogen, natural gas, and electric power sectors.
Prior to CRA, Drake graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Technology and Policy Program (TPP) where he was a graduate research assistant in the MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI). While at MIT, Drake was a co-author on the MITEI Future of Storage study and the architect of the hydrogen production tecno-economic analysis (TEA) module of the Sustainable Energy Systems Modeling Analysis Environment (SESAME). Drake's Master's thesis focused on modeling hydrogen network dynamics and assessing federal regulatory frameworks for the development of interstate hydrogen transmission infrastructure within the United States.
Drake's work has been published in The Electricity Journal and other academic texts. Drake's also been invited to speak both domestic and internationally on matters related to the regulation of hydrogen and system planning.
Drake earned a Master of Science in Technology and Policy, with a particular emphasis on Energy Economics and Finance, from MIT and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, with a focus on Operations Research and Economics, from the University of Texas at Austin.

Jurgita Šilinskaitė-Venslovienė

Head of LNG Commerce, AB Klaipėdos Nafta

Jurgita Šilinskaitė-Venslovienė is the Head of LNG Commerce at the Oil and LNG terminals operator „Klaipėdos nafta". She is responsible for FSRU based Klaipėda LNG terminal and onshore LNG Bunkering and Truck loading terminal. She has extensive experience in management of diverse infrastructural projects in different sectors. Previous work experience of her covers Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant, National Development Institute and private holding company. At the same time Jurgita Šilinskaitė-Venslovienė is a Board member of Klaipėda University (Lithuania).

Laurence B. Tree II

President and CEO, Proteum Energy

Laurence B. Tree II ("Larry") is a proven entrepreneur and strategic leader who has built international businesses and brands from initial funding through to successful business- to business process and technologies development. Larry's passion is to build great teams of people working together with the skill and persistence to drill into initial business plans and collaborate to execute strategies and tactics focused on excellence.
Before joining Proteum Energy, Mr. Tree was the President and founder of Laron, Incorporated, a 40-year leader in heavy industry service solutions focused on power generation, mining, oil and gas, heavy manufacturing, transportation, and construction industries. Laron was acquired in January 2020 by Ohio Transmission Corporation, a GenStar company.
In 1984, Mr. Tree founded and built EMS (now Sulzer EMS). EMS became the largest independent service company for power generation, mining, and basic industries in the Western U.S., reaching #24 on Inc. Magazine's fastest-growing companies in America.
Successfully transitioned EMS with the largest independent industrial services company globally, a public U.K., PLC, and served five years on the international board of directors. EMS is now a business unit of Sulzer Turbo Services based in Switzerland.
Mr. Tree's entrepreneurial successes lead him to be nominated Arizona Entrepreneur of the year and the Who's Who of Executives in America.
Mr. Tree also has a varied entrepreneurial and philanthropic background. He co-founded and co-created the worlds leading integrative medicine web portal () and product licensing company. This creation was at the request of Dr. Andrew Weil, a renowned integrative medicine physician, and author. Mr. Tree developed the initial business plan and secured funding, co-creating an international web and licensing business exceeding $100 million in top-line sales. The philanthropic goal has been fulfilled with millions of dollars of profit raised; all focused on funding Dr. Weil's non-profit, Weil Foundation. The Weil Foundation significantly contributed to the Program of Integrative Medicine at the University, which is now the very successful Arizona Center of Integrative Medicine (), a Center of Excellence within the University of Arizona.
Outside leadership positions and current boards include: Board Member of Superior Gas Solutions, LLC - a flare gas/associated gas to power and hydrogen technology company based in Arizona YPO Gold Arizona - (Young President's Organization) World Presidents Organization (WPO) International Lifetime member of the Brophy Dad's Club - a leading Arizona Jesuit boys high school booster organization Prior member of the Board of Trustees of Phoenix Country Day School - a leading K-12 private school in Arizona
Mr. Tree's interests include hiking, fly fishing, traveling, and spending time with his wife Patti and their five grandchildren and two Labrador mix rescue dogs.

Neil Mackintosh

President and CEO, Proteum Energy

Neil has more than 30 years' experience in the energy industry, with a strong commercial and technical background. He is responsible for all McDermott's early phase engineering, from Offshore to LNG and Petrochemicals. He is also the Global Product Champion for the Decarbonization McDermott's existing product line.
He has had senior leadership positions in Technip and then Worley, where he was the president of the Intecsea organization. Over the last 5 years he spent most of his time working in the energy transition space driving solutions for Net Zero carbon, Hydrogen and carbon capture.
He is a graduate of Newcastle University in the UK but has been based in Houston for over 20 years.

Parul Dhall

Director of Strategic Marketing, Technip Energies USA

Parul is the Director of Strategic Marketing with Technip Energies USA, a leading Engineering & Technology company for the energy transition.
Over the last 15 years, Parul has held different roles in business development, engineering, and operation within the energy industry. In her current role, Parul oversees the strategy, market development, and positioning of new offerings by Technip Energies in the energy transition markets within Americas.
Parul has a Master’s Degree in Engineering Science from Pennsylvania State University and has completed the Advanced Management Program at Yale School of Business. Parul believes that energy transition is a generational opportunity to shape the futures of our economy, society, and planet, and is passionate about women’s role in realizing it.

Richard Gottwald

President & CEO, Compressed Gas Association

Parul Dhall is a Senior Director of Low Carbon Technologies at NOV Inc., an international energy service company. She is a creative and forward-thinking leader with more than 10 years of experience in developing and successfully executing strategies in the energy industry.
In her current role, Parul is instrumental in driving NOV's global strategy on energy transition. She is well experienced in navigating through complexities of climate-tech, market, geo-politics, and economics for different low carbon technologies. Parul believes that energy transition is a generational opportunity to shape the futures of our economy, society, and planet.
Parul has a Graduate Degree in Engineering Science and Mechanics from the Pennsylvania State University and an undergraduate degree in Metallurgical Engineering from Punjab Engineering College, India. She has also completed executive certification on and Climate Change Policy from Harvard Kennedy School and executive program on Corporate Sustainability Management from Yale School of Management.
Parul has been an active member of the Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy (WRISE) and Women Energy Network (WEN). Through these organizations, she mentors young professionals and helps organize events promoting gender equity and sustainable development. In 2021, she was a recognized by Ally Energy with a GRIT award for her leadership and expertise in the energy industry.
Parul is a mother of two young boys, and lives with her family in the Woodlands, TX.

Frank Wolak

President and CEO, Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association

Mr. Wolak is the President and CEO of the Washington DC based Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA), an organization that represents over sixty leading international and domestic companies and organizations that are advancing innovative, clean, safe, and reliable energy technologies.
Prior to FCHEA, Mr. Wolak was a Senior Vice President at FuelCell Energy, Inc. (FCE). At FCE Mr. Wolak initiated and developed some of the most innovative and largest fuel cell technology applications in the world. In addition to his business successes, Mr. Wolak worked closely with the US Department of Energy, Congress and state agencies to define and sustain programs for hydrogen and fuel cells throughout the US.
Mr. Wolak has experience in all facets of energy including executive positions outside the fuel cell and hydrogen industry at an international energy services company, a power development and investment company, public energy resources corporation and as management consultant providing insight to clients in emerging technology and utility segments.
Mr. Wolak is a founding member of the Connecticut Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Coalition, past Chair of the California Stationary Fuel Cell Collaborative, serves as a Governor appointment to the New Jersey Fuel Cell Task Force and previously served two terms at the appointment of the Secretary of Commerce to the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Advisory Committee.
Mr. Wolak holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Western New England University and an MBA in Finance from the University of Hartford.

Tom Mourmouras

Hydrogen Commercial Manager, HD & Fleets, Shell

Tom is Hydrogen Commercial Manager, Heavy Duty & Fleets at Shell, responsible for development of applications like trucks, trains, buses, and marine. A lifelong car enthusiast, Tom worked at startups before arriving at Shell, including TrueCar, Lyft, and MuckerLab. At Shell, Tom has moved among mobility-focused roles across the Renewables & Energy Solutions portfolio. He is a mentor at Thrive Scholars and holds degrees in Economics and Management from Claremont McKenna College and UCLA Anderson. On the weekends, you can find him at The Motoring Club, the beach, or Papa Cristo's Taverna in Los Angeles.

Fabian Kapp

Managing Director, Gräbener Maschinentechnik

Fabian Kapp is the Managing Director of Gräbener Maschinentechnik GmbH & Co. KG. He represents the 4th generation leader of the 100-year-old special machine building company, in which his family holds a majority stake. He joined the company in 2009 as a graduate engineer in electrical engineering. In 2016, he became an authorized officer and member of the management board. Soon after that, he founded Graebener Inc. based in the USA and in 2017 started bundling the sales activities in China through a strategic partnership.
With a focus on the Graebener® Bipolar Plate Technologies business unit, Fabian Kapp consistently continues the almost 20-year research and development of manufacturing technologies for metallic bipolar plates. With its core competences in forming, cutting and welding and the expansion of its in-house application laboratory, Graebener® BPT today covers all the essential steps of the value-added chain to further develop the manufacturing processes necessary for the production of metallic bipolar plates. The company offers customer-specific, fully automated production lines for the manufacturing of bipolar plates - from the coil to the finished welded bipolar plate. In addition to this, Graebener® BPT provides comprehensive support to the customers, from engineering through prototyping up to small series production.

Yuri Freedman

Senior Director of Business Development, SoCalGas

Yuri has broad experience in development and acquisition of energy infrastructure assets. In his current role of Senior Director of Business Development, he manages the portfolio of low carbon growth projects and R&D activities of Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas), the largest North American gas utility. Prior to his current role he held the position of Director of Commercial Development for Sempra LNG, and previously held the positions of Director of Infrastructure Investments at Sempra Renewables and Director of Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions at Sempra Energy.
Prior to joining Sempra Energy, Yuri held the positions of Managing Director at Fortress Investment Group and Vice President at GE Energy Financial Services.
Yuri serves on the board of CALSTART. He holds an MBA from the Yale School of Management and a PhD in Environmental Science and Energy Research from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel.

Christopher J. Wiernicki

Chairman, President & CEO, ABS

Chris Wiernicki is Chairman, President & CEO of ABS and Chairman of the ABS Group of Companies, Inc. He previously served as Chairman of the International Association of Classification Societies and held senior roles at ABS, including President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief Technology Officer and President and COO of ABS Europe Ltd.
Wiernicki is a Fellow with the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers. In 2013, he was awarded the Vice Admiral Emory S. Land Medal for outstanding accomplishment in the marine field. In 2016, he earned the United Seaman's Service Admiral of the Ocean Seas Award for outstanding contributions to the maritime industry, and is a member of the International Maritime Hall of Fame Class of 2016. Wiernicki received honorary Doctor of Science degrees from Maine Maritime Academy and SUNY Maritime College, and an honorary Doctor of Engineering degree from Stevens Institute of Technology. In 2017, Wiernicki was named Massachusetts Maritime Academy's Person of the Year. In 2018, he was named the International Personality of the Year at the annual Lloyd's List Greek Shipping Awards and was recognized as one of the top 50 influential people by Tanker Shipping & Trade magazine. Wiernicki was elected to the U.S. National Academy of Engineering in 2021 for innovative leadership in the design, engineering and operation of ships and offshore structures.
Wiernicki lectures at the university level on topics ranging from leadership to technology, and serves on the Webb Institute Board of Trustees along with other numerous University Boards and Advisory Councils.
Wiernicki holds a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Vanderbilt and was inducted to Vanderbilt University School of Engineering Academy of Distinguished Alumni. He holds a master's degree in structural engineering from George Washington University where he was elected to the George Washington University Engineering Hall of Fame. Wiernicki also holds a master's degree in ocean engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and completed Harvard University's Advanced Management Program.

Bill Elrick

Executive Director, California Fuel Cell Partnership

Mr. Elrick has over two decades of experience bringing new vehicle technologies and supporting infrastructure to the commercial market; including advanced combustion and zero emission technologies. During his tenure at the California Fuel Cell Partnership, he has directed the development of roadmaps and action plans for light- and heavy-duty fuel cell applications, found consensus among public and private stakeholders, and supported California's leadership in the commercial market launch. As Executive Director Mr. Elrick is now leading CaFCP's strategy planning to achieve the self-sustaining hydrogen fuel cell market by 2030 in California.

Cornelius Matthes

Chief Executive Officer, Dii Desert Energy

Cornelius is a well-respected leader and investor in the renewable energy industry and built several successful clean energy businesses and start-ups within Middle East and Africa. He has extensive board level experience from 10 years in Deutsche Bank (among others, youngest board member in Deutsche Bank Italy Group) and several leading renewable energy organisations and associations via pro bono work as well as different startup companies.
By building the international shareholder and partner network of Dii (Desertec Industrial Initiative), he was at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution in North Africa and the Middle East. A keen entrepreneur and investor in emerging markets with recognitions such as "Solar Pioneer 2015" for the Middle East, he is lecturing at several universities including St. Gallen and is a regular speaker at international conferences. He holds an MBA (Dipl. Kaufmann) from University of Passau, and speaks German, English, Italian, French and Russian.
His experience ranges from M&A transactions, asset management, developing utility scale renewable energy projects (including mid-market with private PPAs), pay-as-you-go solar to energy efficiency, including ESCO projects and new business models. Some of the projects and companies were executed in challenging settings or countries. He has led sizable organizations both in startup environments and blue-chip companies and has raised funds from angel investments to USD 100m+ projects with institutional investors. "I am glad to be able to work in renewable energy which is also my passion - we can genuinely make an impact with many different things and help people, to make our planet a better place. Having new challenges every day is fantastic and many more mountains to be climbed!"
His leadership experience is marked by pioneering investment position in the emission-free technologies:
- Vice Chairman & Investor, Enteria Energietechnik GmbH
- Board Member & Investor, Solarway
- Board Advisor & Investor, Enerwhere

Timothy E. Meyers

Office of Design & Engineering Standards, USCG

Tim Meyers is the U.S. Coast Guard's lead engineer on regulatory and policy development for shipboard systems using alternative fuels. He represents the U.S. in IMO's ongoing development of the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) as well as other related industry standards. Tim has over 28 years of experience in enforcement, interpretation and development of maritime safety and security regulations with the U.S. Coast Guard.  He holds a bachelor's degree in applied science from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, a master's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Virginia, and is a registered professional engineer.

Curt Graham

VP, Office of Technology, Fluor

Curt Graham is the Vice President and Lead for Fluor's Office of Technology. As Office of Technology Lead, Curt is responsible for technology strategy around the Energy Transition, and evaluation of new technologies. Prior to his current role, he was the Manager of Engineering and Department Manager of Process Engineering for the Southern California (SoCal) offices (Aliso Viejo and Long Beach), and the leader of the Fluor Gas Processing Technology Group. He has over 30 years of industry experience.
Since joining Fluor in 1996, Curt has worked on a wide range of Energy & Chemicals projects with extensive experience in Gas Processing - LNG Regasification Terminals, Turboexpander Plants (C3+ and C2+ recovery), Residue Gas Compression, NGL Fractionation, Propane Refrigeration Systems, Amine Treating, Physical Solvent Treating, Scavenger Treating, Ryan-Holmes, Membrane, and Gas/Oil Separation. Refining - Hydrogen Plant, Hydrotreater, Coker, Amine Treating, Merox, C3 Splitter.
Curt has significant experience with the use of process simulation as a design tool. His expertise includes petroleum, petrochemical, power, and gas processing applications. His experience also includes field assignments in refineries, including two unit start-ups, extensive operator training, and Process Lead on major grass roots gas plant, gas plant debottlenecking and gas plant fire rebuild projects. Curt received a Bachelor's of Science degree in Engineering from Harvey Mudd College. He also holds 12 U.S. Patents in gas processing and treating, is a Fluor recognized SME in Gas Processing, and is an author on over 25 industry papers.

Georgios Plevrakis

Director for Global Sustainability, ABS

Georgios Plevrakis serves as ABS Director for Global Sustainability, based in Athens, Greece. In his current position, Plevrakis is responsible for helping owners and operators develop fuel and operational strategies to meet sustainability goals.
Before joining ABS, Plevrakis worked in a number of roles spanning power generation manufacturing to classification services. Previous roles include serving as Business Development Manager for a Class Society and Head of Power Plants and Turbomachinery and Marine New Buildings Manager for MAN Diesel & Turbo covering Greece, Cyprus and the Balkan Region.
Plevrakis holds a MEng in Mechanical Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens and an MBA from the Athens University of Economics and Business.

Bernhard Voll

Senior Technical Expert, SMA Sunbelt Energy

After studying electrical engineering Bernhard started his career as Network Planning Engineer for a utility company in Germany where he soon became head of operations and Deputy Manager of a Branch Office in Northern Bavaria. In 1996 he took on the position as CEO of a municipal owned utility company in Germany responsible for Electricity, Gas, Water, District Heating, Telecommunication, Public Transport and Shipping Services.
In 2000 Bernhard started a new international career as Vice President Marketing, Business Development and Technology for ABB Wind Power. In 2003 he moved to Australia and joined an international wind farm developer as Chief Technical Officer and then worked for Allco Finance Group as Technical Director until 2008. In January 2009 Bernhard started his own consulting business focusing on Energy Efficiency, Electrical Safety and Renewable Energies. In 2014 Bernhard moved back to Germany and took on the position as Platform Manager Medium Voltage Systems for SMA heading the global Medium Voltage Business for the world largest inverter company. After having grown the Medium Voltage Business significantly Bernhard took on a new challenge and moved to SMA Sunbelt Energy GmbH, a 100% subsidiary of SMA to develop another new business area for SMA. In Sunbelt he now looks after electrical safety, quality and the new Power 2 Gas Business.

Dr. Sunita Satyapal

Director, Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office, U.S. Department of Energy

Dr. Sunita Satyapal is the Director for the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office and coordinates activities across offices for the U.S. DOE Hydrogen Program. She is responsible for more than $150 million per year in hydrogen and fuel cell research, development, demonstration, and deployment activities. She has two and a half decades of experience across industry, academia, and government, including at United Technologies managing research and business development, and as a visiting professor. She also coordinates across international hydrogen activities and is currently Vice-Chair of the International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy, a partnership among over 20 countries to accelerate progress in hydrogen, and she serves as co-lead for hydrogen efforts within the Clean Energy Ministerial and Mission Innovation.  She received her Ph.D. from Columbia University and did postdoctoral work in Applied and Engineering Physics at Cornell University. 
She has numerous publications, including in Scientific American, 10 patents, and a number of recognitions including a Presidential Rank Award.

Rakhi Oli

Global Strategic Business Leader: Low Carbon Solutions, Flowserve

Rakhi is the currently the Global Strategic Business Leader for Flowserve’s Low Carbon Business Segment. She supports new markets and products development, Strategic Partnerships, M&A, and commercial business management as an enterprise Growth Leader. Overall she has 21 yrs. of global industry experience developing & executing multi-billion-dollar Energy (LNG) infrastructure projects, leading technical design, & project engineering management. A sought after industry discussion leader and author to numerous international publications she wrapped up 2022 as a winner of ESG & Climate Champion by Ally Energy Awards and as ExxonMobil Power Play Award finalist under the Global Ambassador Category. She is a recognized Industry thought leader and Flowserve's Ambassador connecting the internal and external stakeholders. She is a masters in Chemical engineering from Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur India and currently pursuing Sr. Executive Leadership Program at “The Wharton Business School”.

Ole Hoefelmann

General Manager of Electrolyzers, Plug Power

Ole Hoefelmann joined Plug Power in January 2021 as General Manager of its electrolyzer business. Mr. Hoefelmann is responsible for the sales, product management, product development and business strategy of Plug Power's PEM-electrolyzer offering.
Mr. Hoefelmann is an expert voice in the global hydrogen economy. His career includes an impressive 30-year tenure at Air Liquide S.A., with extensive international experience spanning the US, Korea, France, Spain, Portugal, and Germany. He notably served as CEO for Air Liquide in Iberia, COO Industrial Customers US, Chairman of Air Liquide Advanced Materials, CEO Advanced Technologies US, Vice President Hydrogen Energy Americas, and most recently Vice President Markets, Strategy, Innovation, Strategic Accounts, and Communication for the World Business Line Industrial Merchant.
In these roles, Mr. Hoefelmann led almost 3,000 employees, developed commercialization strategies to scale hydrogen fuel production from small to high-volume manufacturing, influenced safety education and protocol, and accelerated growth in new markets, including transportation. In fact, Mr. Hoefelmann created the Hydrogen Energy Americas organization with the purpose of developing a strong presence in the fuel cell energy transportation sector, resulting in Air Liquide announcing a hydrogen refueling network in collaboration with Toyota in the Northeast US.
Mr. Hoefelmann has served as chair and vice-chair for the California Fuel Cell Partnership (CaFCP) and Vice Chair of Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA). He holds an MBA in International Business from Saint Mary's College in California.

David Alonso

Vice President, New Equipment Sales, Mitsubishi Power Americas

David Alonso is Vice President, New Equipment Sales for Mitsubishi Power Americas. In this role he is responsible for executive leadership and management of all aspects of the sales and marketing activities for Mitsubishi Power new equipment agreements in the US. He has over 23 years of industry experience that span across power generation equipment (fossil, nuclear, and renewable), energy storage, transmission, distribution, maintenance and service for utility, independent power producer, industrial, and EPC customers. He is well versed in electric utility industry trends. David holds a B.S. in Management Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology and an MBA from the University of Florida.

Cody Bateman

CEO, GenH2

Cody Bateman is a businessman, scientist, and philanthropist. He has founded several startups including Advantek Research, providing engineering solutions for the DoE, and Cryotek, a leader in cryogenic engineering focusing on the technological commercialization of hydrogen for vehicles, drones, maritime applications, and supply infrastructure. As the Chairman and CEO of GenH2, Bateman is widely recognized as a leader in the field of hydrogen infrastructure research and development and is an outspoken advocate for the Hydrogen Economy.

Ryan Breen

Head of Corporate Strategy, Jericho Energy Ventures

Ryan runs all things Corporate Strategy for Jericho Energy Ventures. He has been with the Jericho since inception and is responsible for early-stage due diligence, deal structuring and execution for new investments, capital formation and lending activities. He has completed transactions totaling over $100 million. Prior to joining Jericho Energy Ventures, Ryan was in the investment bank at J.P. Morgan, based in New York, working within the Diversified Industrials Group focused on Multi-Industrial, Aerospace & Defense and Transportation opportunities. While at J.P. Morgan, Ryan participated in transaction structuring and execution, including M&A and Debt and Equity financings for Fortune 500 companies. Ryan received a B.A. in History from Northwestern University.

Brett A. Perlman

CEO, Center for Houston's Future

Brett A. Perlman serves as the CEO of the Center for Houston's Future, a nonprofit organization working to address matters of highest importance to the long-term future of the greater Houston region.
His career has spanned senior positions in business, government and community service organizations. Perlman served for four years as a Commissioner on the Public Utility Commission of Texas, where he was appointed in 1999 by then-Governor George W. Bush.
He holds advanced degrees in public policy from Harvard University and in law from the University of Texas, and was a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Northwestern University.

Robert Nussmeier

Vice President of Strategic Clients, Baker Construction Enterprises

As the Vice President of Strategic Clients for Baker, I provide expert relationship support to ensure Baker executes faster, smarter, safer, and better. With more than 32 years of experience in the construction industry, I offer the knowledge and expertise to anticipate clients' needs and ensure we exceed expectations. Baker has a well-earned reputation for excellence, and I'm proud to support the teams that make this company great.
My areas of market expertise include LNG and oil and gas terminals; nuclear fuels and power plants; fossil fuel power plant upgrades; green industrial gas plants; alternative and renewable power; renewable biofuel plants; federal, public, and private heavy construction; carbon capture and carbon sequestration; water and wastewater treatment construction; EPCM projects; data centers; microchip plants; and carbon emissions reduction with concrete technologies.

Amanda C. Duhon

Regional Director, North & Central America, EIC

As part of the EIC's Senior Management Team, Amanda plays an integral role in delivering the EIC's objectives and strategy across the North & Central America region. She adds value to EIC members by fostering key industry relationships, identifying business opportunities and promoting EIC members' interest across the energy sector. ​
Prior to joining the EIC, Amanda was Director, Business Development North America with Trade & Investment Queensland, Australia. Amanda has also held roles with the Department for International Trade (DIT); as Vice Consul for Energy, Environment and Infrastructure, Amanda led on trade and investment between the US and UK across the south-west US region with a focus on power, wind (onshore and offshore), environment and, transportation and water infrastructure. Previous to her now ten-year commitment to public service in the above roles, Amanda worked in private industry as a senior paralegal and policy analyst for over ten years.​
Amanda holds various non-executive board positions, speaks at industry events, and is a mentor to young professionals in the Houston area. She has a keen interest in energy transition and the realization of net-zero.​
On a personal note, Amanda has two children, Inez who is a Senior at the University of Houston and Maximilien who is in Pre-K. Amanda holds a BA in International Studies and a MA in Political Science with a focus on Public Policy and Administration.

Tom Maramba

Senior Director, Process Specialty Engineering, Fluor

Tom is currently Senior Director, LNG Process Technology at Fluor Enterprises, Inc. in Sugar Land, Texas, managing technology-related issues for LNG projects and proposals. Responsibilities include FEED Verification, Performance Guarantees, Technology Assessment, Risk Mitigation, FEED execution, EPC Detailed Design Execution, Construction Support, and support for Pre-commissioning, Commissioning, Start-up, and Performance Testing. Tom has a total of 31 years of experience in process engineering and design. Tom's previous roles include Process Engineering Department Manager at Kiewit Oil, Gas, and Chemicals, as well as at SK Engineering and Construction, USA, and Principal Process Manager at Bechtel Corporation, all in Houston, Texas.

Roberto Ruiperez Vara

Director, LNG Technology, Operations and Projects, Freeport LNG

Roberto Vara is the Director of LNG Technology, Operations and Projects at Freeport LNG. Roberto has been part of the Freeport LNG project management team since conceptual design. Roberto is a registered Professional Engineer with over 15 years of experience in gas processing and LNG, and a member of the NFPA 59A technical committee. He is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and an ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP).
Roberto completed B.S. in Engineering at University of Leon, in Spain, and holds a M.S. degree in Engineering from Aalborg University, in Denmark, and a M.S. in Technology Management from George Mason University in Virginia.

Tim Sullivan

President & General Manager SeQuest - part of Oxy Low Carbon Ventures

Tim Sullivan is an energy professional with over 30 years of experience in commodities, structured finance, energy marketing & trading, carbon capture and sequestration, private equity, project finance, power generation, renewable energy, natural gas production, natural gas pipelines & storage, financial derivatives, asset management, utility operations, contract negotiation & acquisitions. He has worked for Niagara Mohawk, Enron, Citizens Power, El Paso, AIG-Financial Products, Deutsche Bank, Quantum and is now the President of 1.5 SeQuest (part of Occidental Petroleum). Tim has a BS & MBA in Finance from Syracuse University.

Highlights include:
Executed a 20 MW photovoltaic solar deal on Guam for Quantum in 2012
Co-Led Deutsche Bank's North American Commodity Business (turned the business from zero profits in 2007 to net income of €110 MM in 2010)
Won Project Finance Magazine's Deal of the Year in 2008 for monetizing Chesapeake Energy's natural gas production in Appalachia ($1.1 B, 25 year tenor, 4,000 wells in WV & KY)
Purchased a 50% interest in Tenaska Marketing Ventures for $400 MM in 2007 (low risk transaction, balance sheet & credit, 25% IRR)
Won Project Finance Magazine's Deal of the Year in 2000 for a Power Contract Restructuring (Cedar Brakes I, $320 MM deal with PSE&G (NJ))
Executed approximately 25 power contract restructurings (in both the bank & public markets (144a))
Negotiated purchase & sale agreements for assets and trading platforms/books
Negotiated with upstream producers, natural gas pipelines, LDC's, Co-Ops, IOU's, PE's, investment banks, credit & debt providers, equity partners
Over $5 B in project financings related to PPA Restructurings & Natural Gas Monetizations
Closed a $200 MM fully contracted ethylene to Butene-1 project in Baytown, TX (February, 2017)
Part of Investment teams that have invested over $20 B in assets in North America

Parul Dhall

Director, Low Carbon Technologies, NOV

Parul Dhall is the Director of Low Carbon Technologies at NOV Inc., focused primarily on offshore wind, carbon capture, and low carbon fuels. She has been with NOV since 2010 in various roles including Corporate Technology, Engineering and Research, Manufacturing and Quality management. Prior to NOV, she worked at Saint Gobain Materials as a research engineer. Her diverse experience has provided her with a well-rounded perspective to be a thought leader in the evolving energy industry.
In her current role, Parul is responsible for driving NOV's global strategy on energy transition. Parul believes that this is a generational opportunity to shape the futures of our economy, society, and planet.
Parul has an undergraduate degree in Metallurgical Engineering from Punjab Engineering College, India, and a Graduate Degree in Engineering Science and Mechanics from the Pennsylvania State University.
Parul has been an active member of the Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy (WRISE) Houston Chapter. She loves to volunteer for mentoring, education, and community events. She is a mother of two young boys, and lives with her family in the Woodlands, TX.

Kevin Juno

Director Renewables Investments, Vitol

Kevin Juno is a Director in the Renewables Investments team with Vitol in Houston, TX and has spent the last two years focused mainly on carbon capture and sequestration. Before Vitol, Kevin spent 18 months working at Oxy Low Carbon Ventures developing permanent sequestration hubs in the Continental United States through gathering and sequestering point source emissions from industrial facilities and securing pore space agreements to store the captured carbon dioxide. Prior to Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, Kevin focused on upstream oil & gas through positions at various operators including as a partner in a non-operated E&P company backed by Riverstone Holdings and as an energy investment banker with RBC Capital Markets.
Kevin has an MBA from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Colorado-Boulder.

Cory Weinbel

Director CCUS Projects, Talos Energy

Cory Weinbel joined Talos Energy in January 2020 to initiate development activities for the multi-billion dollar Zama Development offshore Mexico and is now also overseeing Carbon Capture Storage projects for Talos across the Gulf of Mexico Coast. He is currently managing the Bayou Bend CCS and Freeport CCS projects for Talos. Cory brings more than 35 years of broad industry experience focused primarily on leading teams to enhance business value via solving technical and commercial problems and executing large capital projects. His experience cuts across multiple industries including Electronics, Chemical, Oil & Gas, and Renewables. Cory holds a Master of Science degree in Metallurgical Engineering and Bachelor of Science degree in Materials Engineering from Columbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science.

Olu Adeoye

Lead Project Manager, Renewables Infrastructure, Chevron

Mr. Olu Adeoye is a Chemical Engineer by training with extensive experience in the upstream and downstream energy production. He is currently developing Hydrogen and Compressed Natural Gas Infrastructure for Chevron in California. Olu is also conducting doctoral research on a sustainable energy transition at the University of Southern California.

Amanda Raddatz Bopp

Principal Consultant, CCUS, DNV

Amanda Raddatz Bopp joined DNV in 2022 as a Principal Consultant in the CCUS Venture, where she provides CO 2 storage expertise to support operators, service companies, and government bodies on subsurface and operational aspects of CO 2 storage. This ranges from risk management, permitting assistance, recommended practices, and certification and verification. Amanda brings 15 years of industry experience as a Geologist, with the past 8 years focusing on Carbon Management. Her experience comes from Battelle, Oxy, and Shell, where she held various roles in exploration, production, EOR, CO 2 sourcing, and water management. Amanda has a Master's degree in Geology from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.

Bob Slettehaugh

Director, Carbon Capture & Carbon Removal, Kiewit

Bob Slettehaugh is the Director of Carbon Capture & Carbon Removal for Kiewit, a North American engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) firm with roughly $12 billion in annual revenue. He has worked in the carbon capture field for over 20 years and has witnessed the maturation of industry technologies. Bob's role includes positioning Kiewit as the market leader in carbon capture and removal, building relationships with technology providers and developing a pipeline for EPC projects by winning initial engineering projects. Among his other duties, Bob serves as a sponsor for the Department of Energy carbon capture and carbon removal projects Kiewit is supporting.
Kiewit is actively performing and pursuing projects in power (coal, natural gas), oil, gas and chemical (hydrogen, gas processing), industrial (cement, steel, ethanol, ammonia), as well as direct air capture. Current activities range from screening evaluations to front-end engineering design (FEED) resulting in firm fixed pricing, as well as pilot plants. Kiewit uses a technology neutral approach to accommodate all scenarios and quickly adapt to new technology innovations. Kiewit has strong relationships with major carbon capture technology providers, both major commercial solutions providers as well as new, lower technology readiness level (TRL) technology providers. These relationships allow us to provide the most effective and efficient solutions for our clients and their objectives.

Paul Sullivan

VP UMLNG Advisian Americas

Paul is a graduate of University College Dublin and a Chartered Civil Engineer and Environmental Engineer. He is a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and a European PE.
He has 30 years' experience in the LNG Industry. His career has covered construction and engineering in Europe, the Middle East, India, Korea, China, SE Asia and the Americas.
He headed up the FEED group in BG from 1988 to 1998 and was instrumental in developing their first grassroots Liquefaction project, Atlantic LNG in Trinidad.
From 1998 to 2009 he served as the Development Director within Whessoe LNG with direct responsibility for Product and Project Development. He managed the development and delivery of LNG Import facilities in India, Europe and the Americas.
In 2011 he joined Worley parsons as Senior Vice President Global LNG and FLNG responsible for the initiation, development and securing of all LNG projects. From 2019 he has led the Upstream Midstream and LNG sector of Advisian Americas.

James E. Campos

Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Trade / Energy for the Commonwealth of Virginia
Former Assistant Secretary for the U.S. DOE

Mr. Campos earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from the University of Maryland, College Park, a Master of Science at the University of Maryland and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Glasgow, Scotland. Mr. Campos has served in both the public and private sectors, working in industries such as energy, publishing, telecommunications, state & federal government, strategic business consulting, political consulting, as well as being a small business owner and an adjunct business professor. In April 2018, Mr. Campos was confirmed by the United States Senate by a vote of 98-2 as an Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy.
Since January 4, 2023, James has served as a Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Trade, with a portfolio focusing on Energy and Rural Virginia. James also serves as the Acting Executive Director of the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, which works to develop a diverse economy in Southern and Southwest Virginia.

Matt Kittell

Senior Investment Officer, U.S. Dept. of Energy

Matt Kittell is a Senior Investment Officer with the Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office, where he conducts due diligence and underwriting on loans to large scale energy projects including carbon capture, transport, utilization, and sequestration. Matt is the team lead for DOE's new Carbon Dioxide Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (CIFIA) program, which has several billion dollars of infrastructure funding available to support construction of large scale, common carrier, CO2 transportation infrastructure in the U.S. Matt has been with LPO for about fifteen years and in the clean energy and climate policy space for over twenty.

Umesh Baliga

Process CTE - Sustainable Technologies, KBR

Umesh Baliga is the Chief Technology Engineer for Sustainable Technologies at KBR and a Subject Matter Expert on CO2 Capture, Green Hydrogen, and Blue Hydrogen technologies. Umesh brings over 45 years of process engineering experience including 32 years with KBR. Umesh's process expertise includes FEL-1/ Conceptual Studies, FEL-2/ Pre-FEED, FEL-3/ FEED, FEED Verification/ EPC, and Commissioning/ Start-up.
Umesh is currently the Technology Manager in the FEED phase for a client-confidential US-based renewable Hydrogen project that includes Electrolysis, Liquefaction, Hydrogen Storage, and Loading. He has recent experience performing Carbon Capture and Utilization Studies in the FEL 1/2 phases for a few client-confidential Post-Combustion CO2 Capture projects. Umesh has excellent experience with Pre-Combustion CO2 Capture projects in the LNG and Ammonia space. He has performed technology evaluations for Green Hydrogen and Post-Combustion Carbon Capture technologies. Umesh has FEED and EPC experience with SMRs, ATRs, and ASUs that are used in conjunction with Carbon Capture units for Blue Hydrogen projects.

Aaron Drucker

Senior Director, Commercial, McDermott

Aaron Drucker is Senior Director, Commercial, for McDermott's Onshore, western hemisphere operations. In his role he manages a diverse team responsible for business development and sales, strategic development, growth and implementation.
Aaron, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management from Texas A&M University, has more than 17 years' experience in the oil and gas industry across the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors. He has held various leadership roles within a number of international EPC organizations operating primarily in the North, Central and South America region.
An accomplished senior level director, Aaron has extensive knowledge of commercial strategy, business growth and project delivery.

Thomas Manuel Ortiz

Petroleum Engineer, Texas General Land Office

Thomas Manuel (Tom) Ortiz began his career at Los Alamos National Laboratory where he conducted thermodynamic experiments with metal-hydrogen systems. While pursuing his doctorate, he modeled the thermodynamic efficiency of hydrogen fueled cogeneration plants. Tom then developed software to model the performance of supercritical carbon dioxide as a net zero refrigerant substitute for residential heat pumps. After completing his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering at Purdue University, Tom worked in the energy industry for 15 years, including as a developer of Exxon Mobil's petroleum reservoir simulator and as a digital oilfield product manager at Halliburton. Tom also holds seven US and European patents on energy technologies as well as an MBA in finance from Texas A&M University. He has been a state government employee since 2016 where he currently serves as a senior technical advisor on energy issues at the Texas General Land Office.

Christina Staib

Senior Client Engagement Lead, Global CCS Institute

Christina Staib is the Institute's Senior Client Engagement Lead based in Houston. She supports our members in the Americas to accelerate the implementation of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects in the energy sector. Christina has more than 25 years of experience in the energy, environment, and engineering sectors, as well as strategic planning, energy finance, and entrepreneurial experience.

Dan Hancu

Senior Program Manager, Point Source Carbon Capture, U.S. Department of Energy

Dan Hancu is a Senior Program Manager for Point Source Carbon Capture, at U.S. DOE. Dan has over 20 years' experience in technical management, techno-economic analysis, and technology translation from bench, pilot to commercial scale both in the public and private sector. During his tenure at General Electric, Dan developed deep technical expertise in material and process development for carbon dioxide separation and utilization, supercritical carbon dioxide processes, energy storage and emission control technologies for power generation. Dan worked at DOE/NETL as the carbon capture technology manager building diverse portfolios of projects in carbon capture technologies for power and industrial sources as well as direct air capture. He also worked at Booz Allen Hamilton as a senior technical advisor supporting ARPA-E's initiatives in flexible carbon capture and methane pyrolysis with value carbon co-product. Dan is the author of over 30 issued patents, and 25 peer reviewed papers. He is the recipient of the Green Chemistry Challenge Award, EPA for the development on non-fluorous CO2-philic materials. Dan obtained his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from University of Pittsburgh, studying reactions and separations in supercritical CO2.

Richard Surprenant

Carbon Capture Solutions Business Development Manager, Robotics & Industrialized Solutions, Saipem

Mr. Surprenant is the Global Business Development Manager for Carbon Capture Solutions at Saipem, the advanced technology and engineering platform for designing, constructing and operating safe and sustainable complex infrastructure and plants.
An accomplished professional with more than 30 years of experience in Engineering, Operations, and Commercial senior leadership roles, he worked at Shell for 20 years domestically and abroad in upstream and downstream operations and businesses before joining CO2 Solutions Inc. as senior VP and CTO in 2017.
He joined the company in 2020 following Saipem's acquisition of the CO2 Solutions technology. In his current role, he establishes contacts across industrial sectors seeking the best carbon capture process by explaining in simple words how enzymatic technology is an industry game changer over other capture methods.
Mr. Surprenant is a graduate from McGill University in Chemical engineering, and is a licensed engineer from l'Ordre Des Ingenieurs du Quebec.

Preshit Gawade

Executive Director - New Energies, Baker Hughes

Dr. Preshit Gawade is a “Forty under 40” honoree & “S&P Global Energy Awards- Finalist” in the energy sector - and has served in new energy, oil & gas, chemicals, and power generation sectors. He is a published author & speaker.
For 20 years, Preshit has worked with several industry partners and Govt. entities. Engineer at heart and in business by choice- currently, Preshit is an Executive Director-New Energy & focuses on strategy, market intelligence, and investment planning in new energy. Through prior roles, he has gained experience in technology, product, business development & corporate investment that helps him to connect the dots.
Preshit strongly believes in “Thought Leadership” to take business & community forward. Currently, Preshit serves as board/ council member on “Energy Industries Council”, “McCombs School of Business”, “UT Austin- KBH Energy Institute” “Big Brother Big Sister” “And low-carbon Society” & actively involved in Baker Hughes leadership programs.
Preshit holds an MBA from The University of Texas, Austin, and PhD in Chemical Engineering from The Ohio State University.

David Maher

Sr Manager, Business Development Technology, Linde

David Maher is a Sr. Manager of Business Development Technology at Linde Gas. He spent the first 10 years of his career at ExxonMobil, where he built experience in Upstream Gas Treating & LNG across Operations, Research, and Project Development. After getting his MBA at the University of Texas, David transitioned into the commercialization of Clean gas monetization pathways and moved to Linde where he is developing carbon capture and hydrogen hubs across North and South America.

Juan Carlos Latasa

Oil & Gas Technical Director & Lead of Advanced Fuels, IDOM

Mr.Latasa is a Industry Engineer, MSc in Energy Process with more than 30 years of experience in all engineering aspects of Process, thermal, cogeneration, chemical plants, from process engineering to design, feasibility studies and technical supervision. He is elected member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers and Technical Expert Advisor of the Bilbao Oil & Gas Conferences for the BEC (Bilbao Exhibition Centre), and has a broad experience in Project Management and Management of engineering organizations, extensive experience in working and coordinating international teams. Is an expert in process design and detail design of critical equipment for process units, with extensive experience and concern in eFuels (Coprocessing and HVO Units), Hydrogen Units and gasification Units, has been working as process senior engineer and process manager and leader for hydrotreatment and isomerization units for PEMEX, revamps in hydrotreatment and sulphur units for PEMEX and REPSOL, feasibility studies and Conceptual Design Packages for refineries for Slavyansk Eko (Russia), GEPETROL (Ec.Guinea) or Malasyan Oil Refinery, Project and Critical equipment Management for PETROPERU (Talara Refinery) in the PMC services Team, Technical Advisor for ORLEN or ECOPETROL and Technical coordination and advisor for gas Processing and conditioning units.
Mr.Latasa is expert in process simulation with ASPEN (HYSYS),THERMOFLOW, COFE, DWSIM and PETROPLAN and has several International Publications and conferences related to Energy, Process safety, Marine Terminals, Heavy crudes refining, refineries configuration for extended crudes processing capacity, gas and hydrogen units and well gas processing among others.
Mr.Latasa is the Technical Director of the Oil & Gas Area and Head of Advanced Fuels of IDOM.

Rachel Schelble

Head of Corporate Carbon Management & Infrastructure, Wood Mackenzie

Rachel Schelble joined Wood Mackenzie's corporate research team in 2021 as Head of Corporate Carbon Management and Infrastructure, working to develop new content offerings focused on corporate midstream and carbon management.
Rachel works with oil and gas industry clients to understand the business models, emerging technologies, and strategies driving the energy transition. Her research is focused on understanding the role of the evolving carbon markets, decarbonization strategies and technologies, and the unique ways that the oil and gas industry can develop low carbon solutions.
Prior to joining Wood Mackenzie, Rachel worked at ExxonMobil for 15 years where she held multiple positions in competitor analysis, commercial negotiation, value chain integration, infrastructure development, geoscience, and resource evaluation.
Rachel has a PhD in Earth Sciences from the University of Southern California, and a BSc in Earth and Planetary Sciences from the University of New Mexico.

Tim Tarpley

President, Energy Workforce & Technology Council

As President at Energy Workforce, Tim Tarpley oversees Policy, Government Affairs, International Trade Policy and ESG and Environmental Policy, developing and implementing an integrated strategic plan to advance Energy Workforce's policy positions; broaden awareness of its programs and priorities, and increase the visibility of its positions across key stakeholder audiences.
Tarpley has advocated for the men and woman of the US energy industry for the past 5 years in Washington and around the country. Tarpley has presented at multiple conferences on energy policy and has testified in the United States Congress in front of the House Natural Resources committee, the United States Trade Representative, and the Texas Legislature.
Prior to joining the Energy Workforce & Technology Council he served as Chief of Staff to Congressman Ted Poe (R-TX) and began his legislative career as an aide to Congressman Thornberry (R-TX). As a lynchpin of Congressman Poe's staff for more than nine years, Tim worked on permitting the Keystone pipeline, ending the crude oil export ban, and streamlining the permitting for LNG export approval.
Tarpley holds a juris doctor from Creighton University School of Law and a LLM from American University Washington College of Law.

Algert Prifti

Decarbonization Technologies Manager, Black & Veatch

Mr. Algert Prifti leads the Carbon Capture, Sequestration and Utilization (CCUS) efforts at Black & Veatch. He focuses on exploring existing and emerging decarbonization technology solutions that contribute directly to new and traditional industry clients seeking to manage their carbon emissions and generate value-add opportunities. Algert has experience assessing and implementing CCUS solutions across the value chain, including point-source, Carbon Capture & Sequestration (CCS), CO2 Dehydration and Compression, CO2 Pipeline and Storage, CO2 utilization technologies. In addition to point-source CCS, Algert is also leading the Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology scale-up and project development efforts at Black & Veatch. Algert has experience working directly with diverse industry stakeholders and utility owners to develop and navigate custom decarbonization roadmaps that pave the way to a low-carbon footprint future. As part of the New Energy Solutions team at Black & Veatch, Algert is also involved with projects focused on implementation of other advanced decarbonization technologies such as integration of hydrogen blending in fuels and energy storage solutions, development of low-carbon fuel and energy carrier solutions like methanol and ammonia; cleaner energy generation using supercritical CO2 technology and implementation of world-class efficient, low-carbon intensity gas power.

Todd Bush

Managing Director, Decarbonfuse

As the Managing Director of Fuse Markets, Todd works closely with companies to identify and commercialize energy transition opportunities in Energy & Mining. This year projects have included feasibility studies for carbon capture, commercial due diligence for equipment suppliers, carbon offset buyer analysis, and other benchmarking services. He founded Fuse Markets and https://decarbonfuse.com to deliver data and insights for industrial decarbonization in energy, chemicals, mining, and materials.
Todd was previously Head of North America for Westwood Global Energy focusing on onshore energy supply and demand. Prior to that, he founded Energent Group in 2012 to deliver market insights to underserved water, sand, chemical, and oilfield markets with new technology and unique data. The company was first to market with satellite observation of completion crews and sand mines while providing deep market expertise on the electrification of North America hydraulic horsepower.
He joined Chevron in 2007 following graduate school at Rice University. He led digital oilfield, environmental, lean six sigma, and competitive intelligence initiatives for Chevron's Lower 48 business unit including new asset development and enhanced oil recovery.
Todd is an alumnus of Texas A&M University and Rice University.

Ken Mills

Director - Oil, Gas & Energy Section, Office of General Counsel, Texas General Land Office

Ken Mills is the Director of the Oil, Gas & Energy Section in the Office of General Counsel at the Texas General Land Office. He is at the GLO for the second time; in the 1990's he was the Director of the Real Estate Section. Before and between his times at the GLO, Ken practiced business and commercial real estate law in private practice. His 37 years as a lawyer are divided roughly equally between private practice and State agencies, and he has represented parties in CO2 storage, oil and gas, hard mineral, office, industrial, and retail leasing.
Ken attended the University of Texas, then transferred to the University of North Texas where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Music Theory. He received his JD from the University of Colorado, where he was on the Law Review.

Jane Stricker

Senior Vice President, Energy Transition & Executive Director, Houston Energy Transition Initiative, The Greater Houston Partnership

As the Senior Vice President, Energy Transition and Executive Director of HETI, Jane is responsible for leading the Partnership's initiative to leverage Houston's energy leadership to accelerate global solutions for a low-carbon future. She leads a coalition of industry, academia and community partners to ensure the long-term economic competitiveness and advancement of the Houston region towards a more sustainable and net-zero emissions future. Prior to joining the Partnership, Jane spent over 20 years at bp in a variety of roles. Her most recent role as Senior Relationship Manager of Regions, Cities and Solutions integrated her as a critical partner to cities and industry to collaborate on low-carbon energy solutions, working closely with the City of Houston to implement their Climate Action Plan. Jane is a contributing faculty member of the University of Houston's Center for Carbon Management in Energy, a Regional Advisory Board member for the Energy Industries Council, North & Central America, and member of the Advisory Board of the Houston Chapter of WRISE.

Tyler Durham

Chief Development Officer, Navigator CO2 Ventures

Durham brings over 16 years of experience in the energy sector and corporate venture capital, which included global assignments in Canada, the United States, and the Middle East. He most recently served as Director in Schlumberger New Energy's CCS division, where he led partnership agreements, investment decisions, and integration.
Durham holds a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering from Dalhousie University and an MBA from the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business.

Ram Seetharam

EVP, Business Development & Technology, Cozairo

EVP, Business Development, Cozairo Corp - Carbon Capture & Sequestration Joint Appointment: Hydrogen Program Lead, University of Houston, UH
Energy Program

Retired ExxonMobil Executive - 33-year career in Upstream
Career Highlights
VP of Development, Exxon Neftegas Limited, Russia
Technical Director, North Caspian Operating Company, Kazakhstan
Management assignments in shale oil/gas, offshore arctic, M&A, R&D
Technical assignments in Indonesia, UK and Norway North Sea, US Onshore

Ph.D. Chemical Engineering, University of Houston
M.S. Chemical Engineering, University of Houston
B.S. Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras

Pierre-Philippe Guerif

Solution Development Manager, Air Liquide

Pierre-Philippe is the Solution Development Manager of Technology for Air Liquide Engineering & Construction based in Houston, US, focusing on CO2 capture and Cryogenics technologies. He joined Air Liquide in 2011 as a Process Associate for Air Separation Units and CO Cold Box design in the engineering center in France. Pierre-Philippe is one of Air Liquide's International Expert's for Product and Solution Development and holds Masters Degrees in Process Engineering from the School of Mines of Saint-Etienne, and in Oil & Gas Process Engineering from the IFP School in France.

Jarl Pedersen

Commercial Project Director, 8 Rivers

Jarl Pedersen is a Commercial Project Director at 8 Rivers. Over his 30 years in the energy industry, Mr. Pedersen has held senior roles in Shell Energy North America, and the Port of Corpus Christi. He has led several large-scale energy and maritime infrastructure projects including design and development of power generation, renewable energy and deep-water port terminal projects on green field and brown field sites. Mr. Pedersen holds a Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering and Energy Systems from the Technical University of Denmark and a Bachelor of Commerce Degree in International Business and Trade from the Copenhagen Business School. He also completed an Executive Program from the Anderson Graduate School of Management at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Jason Kraynek

President, Production & Fuels Business Line - Energy Solutions, Fluor

Based in Houston, Texas, Jason Kraynek, serves as the president for Fluor's Production & Fuels business line, covering energy transition as well as the traditional upstream and downstream business sectors, responsible for operations and business development. In his role, he is responsible for the implementation of carbon capture projects as well as hydrogen production and renewable fuels. Prior to assuming his current position, he had global responsibility for Fluor's Business Development & Strategy organization for the Energy & Chemicals (E&C) business group. Mr. Kraynek also provided direct sales leadership over E&C's Chemicals business line. Prior to moving into E&C management, Mr. Kraynek was Fluor's global lead of the Business Transformation & Innovation (BT&I) organization which partners with Fluor's various business lines and functions to facilitate creativity, evaluate new technology, and turn ideas into implementable solutions.
Mr. Kraynek has held various positions since joining the company at its Southern California office in 1993. Additionally, he has held a variety of roles in process engineering, project management, and construction in North and South America.
Mr. Kraynek is part of the Board of Directors for the Engineering and Construction Contracting (ECC) Association, and is currently serving as Chair of the Executive Board of Directors. Mr. Kraynek is a graduate of the University of Michigan with a bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering. He is also a registered professional engineer in the State of California.

Chris Davis

Senior Vice President, Milestone Carbon

Chris is leading the development and growth of Milestone Carbon, LLC, a subsidiary of Milestone Environmental Services, LLC (Milestone). Milestone Carbon offers turnkey solutions for the permanent geological sequestration of CO2 for significant industrial emitters. Chris oversees project development, execution, and expansion. Prior to joining Milestone, Chris worked in various commercial and technical leadership roles at ExxonMobil, including project development for carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCS/CCUS).
Chris brings more than 20 years of global oil and gas industry experience to Milestone. He began his career as an electrical engineer with Burns & McDonnell before joining ExxonMobil, where he spent more than a decade overseas working on commercial negotiations, marketing, and project development in more than 30 countries. Chris has diverse technical experience in reservoir engineering, midstream operations, and power project development for CCS and CCUS applications. He also has held several commercial leadership roles such as NGL, CO2, and Unconventional Infrastructure Manager for XTO Energy, and as Commercial Director and Board Member of ExxonMobil Exploration Argentina, S.R.L.
Chris holds a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and a Master's degree in Petroleum Engineering from Texas A&M University, as well as an MBA from London Business School. He lives with his family in The Woodlands, Texas.

Jeremy J. Moddrell

Special Representative, Pipeline and Gas Distribution Dept., United Association

Jeremy Moddrell is a Special Representative for the United Association's (UA) Pipeline and Gas Distribution Department and is assigned to Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage pipelines. Jeremy has nearly 25 years of experience in the construction industry as both a rank-and-file pipefitter/welder as well as a frontline union officer on an array of energy projects. Throughout his career, he has developed significant skills as a construction professional and has extensive experience in construction safety and permitting. Representing approximately 360,000 skilled craftworkers nationwide, Jeremy works in conjunction with State and Federal Public Agency stakeholders, Contractors, and End Users for the successful procurement and completion of transmission pipeline projects. Before accepting a position with the UA, Jeremy was the President and Assistant Business Manager at Local Union 598 in Pasco, Washington where he engaged in transmission pipeline projects and other various projects in the nuclear industry. He was elected as President of the Pendelton Building and Construction Trades Council in 2018 and again in 2020. During this time, he negotiated and implemented various Collective Bargaining and Project Labor Agreements. Jeremy currently lives in Washington State with his lovely wife and two children.

Robert L. Zeller

Vice President Technology, Oxy Low Carbon Ventures

Dr. Robert Zeller is Vice President of Technology for Oxy Low Carbon Ventures. He has over 30 years of experience in the chemical industry, is a recognized leader in Operational Excellence, and has successfully scaled technologies from the test tube to commercial scale several times in his career. Applying that knowledge and skill to CCUS and associated technologies is his mission with Oxy Low Carbon Ventures. He is the inventor for nearly 20 US Patents, has made numerous presentations to professional groups, and is a registered Professional Engineer in Texas. In 2022, Rob was awarded the prestigious Winthrop-Sears Medal, which recognizes exceptional innovation and entrepreneurship in the sciences field, for his advancing cutting-edge, low-carbon technologies and business solutions that reduce emissions.

Martha Ramos

Director, CCUS and Hydrogen, CEMEX

Martha holds a master’s degree in engineering from the University of Houston and more than 20 years of experience in the Energy sector. In the last 5+ years she has been working primarily on full value chain projects for CCUS and Hydrogen. She is passionate about developing integrated solutions to address climate change and her roles have included the development of decarbonization strategies and their implementation, novel technologies evaluations and techno-economic risk management. Within CEMEX she is responsible for the CCUS and Hydrogen strategy development, implementation and project execution for the USA cement plants.

Tim Steeves

Senior Research Associate, EFI Foundation

Tim Steeves is a Senior Research Associate at EFI Foundation and the Lead Analyst on their 2022 report "CO2-Secure A National Program to Deploy Carbon Removal at Gigaton Scale". He holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Engineering from the University of Chicago, where he specialized in methane conversion using sunlight. He then took on a senior policy fellowship at Carbon180 focused on regulation, specifically studying the permitting for underground injection wells used for carbon storage in geologic formations. His work then led him to EFI, where he has focused on pragmatic ways to advance the U.S.'s decarbonization goals while still centering the public interest, in particular with regard to environmental and climate justice.

Erin Billeri

Regional Americas Business Development Lead, Global CCS Institute

As Senior Client Engagement Lead at the Global CCS Institute, Erin Billeri supports the build-out of the CCS ecosystem in the Americas to drive adoption of CCS as quickly and cost effectively as possible by sharing expertise, building capacity and providing information, advocacy and advice. Erin developed industry expertise across a range of sectors, including emerging energy technologies, sustainable energy development, upstream oil and gas, and power generation, in her previous role as the energy portfolio manager at a media company. She received a Master of Arts from Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of South Carolina.

Preshit Gawade

Executive Director- New Energies, Baker Hughes

Dr. Preshit Gawade, is a constant learner and enjoys connecting the dots.
Preshit is a "Forty under 40" honoree in energy sector - and has expertise in new energies, oil & gas, chemicals, water treatment and power generation. He is a published author & speaker, 500+ citations.
Engineer at heart and in business by choice- Preshit has experience in investing new energy opportunities, deal execution, business incubation, strategy & technology. Through prior roles, he gained experience in strategic planning, market intelligence, due diligence, portfolio management, data analytics and financial analysis 15+ years, Preshit has worked with several industry partners (Baker Hughes, ExxonMobil, Caterpillar, Babcock & Wilcox, Dorf ketal, Merichem) and Govt. entities (Dept. of Energy, Ohio Coal Office, Argonne National Lab) Currently, Preshit is an Executive Director-New Energies that focuses on strategy, technology and investment in new energy opportunities to position Baker Hughes as a market leader. He considers the uncertainties, learning on the fly and connecting the dots are the most exciting part of this role.
Preshit strongly believes in "Thought Leadership" to take business & community forward. Currently, Preshit serve as board/ council member on "Energy Industries Council", "McCombs School of Business", "KBH Energy Center" "Big Brother Big Sister". In addition, he is actively involved in Baker Hughes Leadership Programs to mentor next generation leaders and promote energy transition
In the past, served on Frost & Sullivan, Growth & Innovation Leadership Council and leadership committee of Ekona Power. He is also a graduate of "United Way Project Blueprint Leadership Program" that helps to improve Houston community living. He has held various roles (Vice Chair, Shark Tank) in Society of Petroleum Engineering Gulf Coast Section. Lastly, Preshit has worked with nonprofits in children education, scientific programs & immigration services in various capacity.
Preshit holds an MBA from The University of Texas, Austin and PhD in Chemical Engineering from The Ohio State University. He enjoys occasional beer brewing (applying his chemical engineering knowledge for betterment of humanity !) and avid reader of scientific articles.

Kelsie Van Hoose

Director, Business Development, Williams

Kelsie Van Hoose, P.E. is Director, Business Development for the Williams Companies, Inc. New Energy Ventures group. She is responsible for the development of complex hydrogen and carbon capture and sequestration commercial solutions that create customer success and solidifies Williams' reputation as a leader in the clean energy industry. She joined Williams in 2009 as part of the Engineering Development Program within the Gathering and Processing Business Unit and progressed through roles of increasing responsibility in engineering, operations, and project development in New Mexico and Pennsylvania. In 2018, Van Hoose relocated to Houston to join the Gas Transmission team in Business Development where she successfully originated three major infrastructure projects that will expand Transcontinental Pipeline by 1.4 Bcf/d of capacity. In 2021, she transitioned from Business Development to manage Commercial Services activities in Texas and Louisiana, responsible for managing 191 customers that generate $200 MM in annual revenue and flow 4.2 Tcf annually. Van Hoose holds a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology and a MBA from Oklahoma State University.

Capt. Nitin Nayyar

VP-LNG (FSRU / Offshore), MOL

Capt. Nitin Nayyar is the VP of Energy Business Unit and oversees various LNG, Offshore & tanker related business development activities in North and South Americas. He also supports Commercial Operation for the MOL Gas fleet calling US & South American waters. He's spend last 6 years with MOL developing and expanding various gas related projects & MOL's foray into alternative fuels.
Nitin has more than 18 years of deep sea sailing experience on Oil, Gas (LPG & LNG tankers). He in his previous roles have worked with regulatory authorities, Oil and Gas major organizations and worked with various working groups & panels with OCIMF & SIGTTO. Nitin holds a British Master Mariners License from MCA-UK, was a SIRE Category 1 Oil, Gas, Chemical Inspector. An OVID inspector and a lead TMSA & MTMSA auditor. He's also a Project Management Professional and a member of PMP.

Dustin Bruce

Vice President of CCUS & Low-Carbon Solutions, Kiewit

Dustin Bruce joined Kiewit Energy Group in 2019 and is Vice President of CCUS and Low-Carbon Solutions. He is responsible for corporate and business development and strategic planning in CCU/S as well as other forms of decarbonization. His primary focus encompasses the CCUS value chain, "from capture to sink," for high-emitting CO2 point-sources within multiple industrial market sectors in the U.S. and in Canada.
Prior to Kiewit, Dustin has over 12 years of leadership experience in upstream exploration and production, mid-stream construction, project management, and business and corporate development. During his time in upstream oil and gas, Dustin worked for Encana, Pioneer Natural Resources, TransAtlantic Petroleum, and Creeta Resources, where he managed multi-discipline operations, including overseeing large exploratory campaigns in numerous resource plays throughout the continental U.S., Alaska, Eastern Europe and in the Middle East.
Dustin is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with a double major in Mechanical Engineering and Sport Management. He also holds a Master of Business Administration of Finance, Mergers & Acquisitions, and Strategy from Southern Methodist University.
Kiewit Corporation is one of North America's largest engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) organizations. Founded in 1884, Kiewit Corporation is an employee-owned organization that operates through a network of subsidiaries. With $13.7 billion earned revenue in 2022, and a $10+ billion yearly average over the past decade, Kiewit brings the financial strength of a long-standing company. Continuously ranked among Engineering News-Record's (ENR) top 10 overall contractors for over 20 years, Kiewit has won numerous project awards and consistently ranks among ENR's top contractors in Power and Oil & Gas.

Ash Shepherd

Director of Business Development for CCUS at Talos Low Carbon Solutions, Talos Energy

Ash Shepherd is a founding member and Director of Business Development for Talos Low Carbon Solutions. There he leads the team engaged in commercial negotiations for CCUS acquisitions, growth opportunities and new ventures into the blue economy. Recently he was privileged to negotiate the first permanent offshore CCUS lease in United States history and was previously named by Oil & Gas Investor as one of their "Thirty Under 40" honorees. Ash is a former appointee of President George W. Bush in the Department of Energy, earned his BA from St. Edwards University, JD from South Texas College of Law and an Executive MBA from Rice University.

Nick Borisow

VP Business Development, 8 Rivers Capital

Nick earned his B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Drexel University in Philadelphia. Through his 26-year tenure in industrial & commercial specialty process treatment and industrial water treatment chemicals, equipment, and services businesses with industry leaders, including SUEZ, GE Power & Water, and Veolia, he developed a technical core and commercial aptitude for understanding the operations and challenges of a variety of industries from mining and minerals, steel production, power generation, oil and gas, chemical processing, food and beverage, and pulp and paper.
Through his work and deep domain expertise, he developed a patent for the separation of surfactants from process wastewater to recover and recycle the material. Concurrently to his professional work, he earned his master's in business administration from North Carolina State University in 2018, which complimented his increasingly commercial roles, including Corporate Account Manager for oil and gas and chemical processing clients, and toward the end of his tenure, as Industry Leader for the global ammonia and methanol market segment.
As the industry pivoted toward addressing the climate crisis and focusing on an energy transition, in 2022, he joined 8 Rivers as VP of Business Development with the vision to commercialize pragmatic solutions that the market needs for an affordable, equitable, and decarbonized future. He resides in Cary, NC near 8 Rivers' headquarters located in Durham, NC.

Matthew Stillman

Senior Process Engineer, Fluor

Matthew Stillman serves as a Senior Process Engineer for Fluor's Energy Solutions group. Mr. Stillman has 10 years of process engineering experience, and 3 years of experience specifically related to carbon capture utilizing Fluor's proprietary Econamine FG PlusSM (EFG+) technology. His project experience consists of conceptual studies, technical proposals, front-end engineering design, and detailed engineering design. A graduate of Texas A&M University, Mr. Stillman holds a bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.

Mona Bhagat

Director Technology- Energy Transition, KBR

Mona Bhagat is DirectorTechnology - Energy Transition at KBR Technology which is part of the KBR Sustainable technology solutions business. She has over 25 years international oil and gas, energy transition and LNG experience. This includes 5 years working within energy transition in a leadership role and 20 years of international oil and gas experience working for both E&P and engineering companies throughout the EMEA region.
In her current role, Mona drives strategic energy transition and decarbonisation initiatives for new energy clients in developing their energy transition roadmap hereby providing technology and engineering services to clients across APAC, EMEA and globally. Her focus over the last 5+ years being Energy Transition markets, originating deals and strategic energy advisory consulting across existing major energy supply chains and governments.
Mona is responsible globally for the technology business development activities with a focus on energy transition/decarbonisation, supply chain, renewables and emerging energy technology markets, specifically around Green/Blue Ammonia including CCUS and Green/Blue Hydrogen production. Focussed on all aspects of energy supply chain development and optimisation, globally.
Mona specialises in strategy and business development in energy and infrastructure and brings several years of experience with leading energy clients globally. She has a strategic view across the entire value chain and the lifecycle of energy developments, specifically with respect to Energy Transition projects like CCUS and hydrogen.
Mona is also a Subject Matter Expert for CCUS in KBR’s group wide directory of technical authorities and has led various technology-based projects.
Mona has a Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical & Process Engineering , is the Deputy Chair of IChemE Energy Community of Practice Leadership Group, is a member of the Gastech Conference Governing Body and is the Co-Chair for the Global Energy Transition Congress Selection Committee.

Richard Stewart

VP, Carbon Neutrality, Crescent Midstream

Richard Stewart is the Vice President of Carbon Neutrality for Crescent Midstream. Most recently, Richard was the President & CEO of Geostock Sandia, which has consulted to the carbon dioxide industry for more than fifteen years. Prior to Geostock, Richard spent almost twenty years managing engineering and construction departments for major oil & gas companies. Richard received a Bachelor's in Physics from the University of Virginia and a Master's in Electrical Engineering early in his career while working for United Technologies in rocket engine development. Stewart also has a Master's of Business Administration in Finance and Operations from Northwestern University.

Sophia Cunningham

Vice President, Houston Energy Transition Initiative

Sophia Cunningham is vice president of the Houston Energy Transition Initiative (HETI) at the Greater Houston Partnership, the region’s largest chamber of commerce. HETI promotes economic growth in the Greater Houston region by convening energy industry members in
support of technology, policy, and market initiatives to accelerate an energy-abundant, low- carbon future. At HETI, Sophia is responsible for efforts related to carbon capture, use and
storage (CCUS), community engagement, climate equity, and stakeholder activation through the Initiative’s Advisory Board.
Prior to joining HETI, Sophia was director of public policy at the Partnership. The Partnership’s public policy team advances Houston’s position as a great global city through policy that fosters economic growth and opportunity for all. The Partnership’s impact work begins in the policy advisory committees, where business community members and policy leaders meet. Sophia was responsible for the Partnership’s energy, sustainability, transportation and infrastructure policy portfolio.
Prior to joining the public policy team, Sophia worked for the Partnership’s regional workforce development initiative, UpSkill Houston. During her time at UpSkill Houston, Sophia supported the development of employer-led programs that cultivate quality talent in the industries that drive Houston’s regional economy.
Sophia graduated from Davidson College with a Bachelor of Arts in English. She is an alum of the Center for Houston’s Future Leadership Forum.

Abigail Bonifacio

Senior Process Engineering Associate - CO2 Capture & Energy Transition, US, Air Liquide Engineering & Construction

Abigail Bonifacio is the Senior Process Engineering Associate focusing on CO2 Capture and Energy Transition in the US for Air Liquide Engineering & Construction. She joined Air Liquide in 2012 as a Process Engineering Associate and spent her first 7 years with the company gaining a wealth of international experience in project execution, solutions development, and process control linked to cryogenic technologies and industrial gas services. In 2019, she was promoted to her current position and is supporting business development with technical proposals for CO2 capture solutions in North America.
Abigail is one of Air Liquide's Senior Local Experts for Process & Technology, Process Controls, and P&ID. She graduated with a Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Davis.

Scyller J. Borglum

Vice President, Underground Storage Energy National Business Line, WSP

Dr. Scyller Borglum serves as Vice President for WSP USA's Underground Storage Market in the Energy National Business Line. In addition to salt cavern development for temporary gas storage, Dr. Borglum involved in carbon dioxide sequestration projects with injection wells and depleted reservoirs, hydrogen storage, and compressed air energy storage. She brings more than two decades of experience in ground-up petroleum engineering, geological engineering research, oil and gas/energy industry, and professional experience.
Dr. Borglum worked in oil fields up and down the Rocky Mountain Front, in Texas, and in the Bakken, North Dakota. Her petroleum engineering work focused mainly on upstream activities as she worked for a service company, an independent, and a major. Dr. Borglum conducted geomechanical studies on various salt and rock types while in graduate school and while working at RESPEC, a world renowned geomechanical testing laboratory. She served as an Oak Ridge Institute of Science and Education Fellow at the National Energy Technology Laboratory in Morgantown, WV. Dr. Borglum is not only published in her academic fields, petroleum and geological engineering, but she also co-authored the textbook, The Fossil Fuel Revolution: Shale Gas and Tight Oil. And she has a new book coming out this year on STEM Study Habits for high school and college students!
During her time as elected Representative in the South Dakota State Legislature, Dr. Borglum worked on policies and legislation addressing cradle to grave solar and wind energy development and decommissioning requirements. Dr. Borglum lives in Rapid City, South Dakota with her husband and travels frequently to Houston, Texas for work.

Cody Johnson

CEO, SCS Technologies

Cody Johnson, CEO of SCS Technologies, has a distinguished record in growing and diversifying companies across multiple sectors, including energy, fabrication, manufacturing, and industrial supply chain. As a four-time CEO leading private equity backed middle-market multi-national companies, he has proven expertise in enhancing business valuation and market share under tough economic conditions globally. Cody is a Harvard Business School Certificate of Management Excellence candidate 2024: holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Houston Law School and a BSc in Psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University. He is also a member of the Association of Corporate Growth, the Turnaround Management Association, and the Houston Economic Club. Cody is passionate about building leadership teams that engage in innovative strategies that help solve environmental, social, and economic challenges. As such he serves as a trusted advisor and board member to many organizations working on energy transformation, inclusion, and sustainability.

Joey Bernica

Principal, Investment Team, Climate Investment

Joey Bernica is a Principal in the Investment Team where he focuses on growth equity stage investments in business that reduce, recycle and store greenhouse gas emissions from large industrial facilities and high-emitting sectors. Joey joined Climate Investment in 2021 and is a board member at Flare2Value and Trace Midstream. Prior to Climate Investment, Joey spent over 10 years in the upstream oil & gas sector in commercial and asset management roles. Joey was Vice President of Business Development at TRP Energy where he was responsible for acquisitions and asset management. Prior to that, Joey worked on the Global Business Development team at Murphy Oil and the Applied Reservoir Engineering team at ConocoPhillips. Joey holds a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin, an M.B.A. from Rice University, and is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Texas. Joey is based in Houston.

Andrew Duguid

Vice President, Advanced Resources International

Dr. Andrew Duguid is a Vice President at Advanced Resources International, Inc. Dr. Duguid has over 16 years of research and commercial experience in Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), CO 2 -enhanced oil recovery (EOR), well integrity assessment, and risk assessment topics. Dr. Duguid has managed screening and modeling studies for many ethanol plants and currently leads efforts to develop storage projects in Ohio, Nebraska, Kansas, and Illinois. Dr. Duguid has acted as the principal investigator for multiple US Department of Energy carbon storage projects, including the Phase I and II Integrated Midcontinent Stacked Carbon Storage Hub CarbonSAFE project. On this project he led a team of researchers studying how to develop CCS hub projects that included published research on pipeline risks, Dr. Duguid was heavily involved in the development of the Class VI Injection well permit applications for the two saline storage wells at ADM's corn processing plant in Decatur, IL. Currently, Dr. Duguid specializes in developing projects taking advantage of 45Q tax credits and other incentives.
Dr. Duguid has been a member of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Technical Committee 265, Carbon Dioxide Capture, Transport, and Geological Storage, since 2013. Dr. Duguid led technical panels on well infrastructure for the CO 2 -EOR workgroup (WG6) and saline storage (WG3). He was also a member of the Quantification and Verification workgroup (WG4). Dr. Duguid is a member of the United States Mirror Committee, where he participated in the U.S. adoption of the CO 2 -EOR quantification and verification standard. He earned a Ph.D. and Master's degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering and a certificate in Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy from Princeton University and Master's degrees and a Bachelor's degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering and Nuclear Engineering from the Ohio State University.

Bobby Bailie

Sales Manager, Siemens Energy

Bobby Bailie is a new equipment sales manager for Siemens Energy's compression products. He has been with Siemens Energy, and the legacy Dresser-Rand Company, for over sixteen years holding numerous roles in application engineering, business development, and sales. In recent roles, Bobby led the business development for compressed air energy storage (CAES) and the supersonic CO2 compressor. Bobby graduated from Vanderbilt University with a bachelor's in mechanical engineering and minors in mathematics and management of technology. Bobby is a graduate of South Texas College of Law, a licensed attorney in the state of Texas, and a registered patent attorney with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

PK Pande

Managing Director, Energy Fuse Group

PK Pande is Founder, Managing Director with Energy Fuse Group with focus on energy evolution, CCUS and value added strategic and operational projects for the energy industry. His deep knowledge, world class expertise encompasses delivery of commercial / technical solutions for CCUS, gas injection, EOR-CO2, new and mature field development, unconventional resources, conceptual studies, and systems integration. He served as Chief Engineer for QEP Resources and Director, Reservoir Technology with Anadarko Petroleum Corporation. He held key reservoir and production engineering technical roles with Total and British Petroleum. He served as Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Distinguished Lecturer on "Shale Resources - A Full Life Cycle Integrated Approach ". Mr. Pande holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley and MS in Petroleum Engineering from New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.

Ryan Maurer

Study Manager Process & Chemicals, Wood

Ryan achieves 11+ years of experience in midstream and downstream industries, and has held different roles from project engineer, engineering manager and now currently serves as Study Manager in the Process & Chemicals consulting Team in Houston. His experience has included various roles in all phases of project execution from Pre-FEED through detailed design to commissioning and start up. Ryan has led and managed many projects in both conventional energy and most recently in the energy transition domain. His Energy Transition experience includes carbon capture, green/blue hydrogen, blue ammonia, renewable natural gas, net-zero initiatives, and other decarbonization efforts. Conventional oil and gas experience includes midstream oil and gas facilities and LNG export terminals.

Zach Liu

Subsurface Director CCUS, Harvestone Low Carbon Partners

Zach Liu is the Director of Subsurface CCUS at Harvestone Low Carbon Partners, where he oversees one of the few active Class VI CO2 injection operations at the Blue Flint CCS site in North Dakota. With over 20 years of experience in oil and gas, including a decade focused on CCUS at Kinder Morgan and Harvestone, Zach has built a strong track record of success, having drilled more than 100 CO2 wells.
He is a licensed Petroleum Engineer, Professional Geologist in Texas, and a CFA charterholder. In 2018, he served as President of SPWLA International. Outside of work, Zach enjoys golf and once hit a 202-yard hole-in-one with a 5-iron.

Trevor Best

CEO and Co-Founder, Syzygy Plasmonics

Syzygy is pioneering industrial reactor cells designed to produce chemicals at lower cost and with fewer carbon emissions. Their reactions are driven by light rather than combustion, enabling a substantially more efficient process. Reactor cells have passed qualification testing and Syzygy is actively engaging customers for commercial installations of ammonia e-cracking systems for hydrogen production, and of CO2-to-Fuels systems for reforming carbon dioxide into fuel.
Before starting Syzygy, Trevor worked for the oilfield services company Baker Hughes. There he held a variety of management positions and gained expertise in technology development, project and personnel management, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. He is originally from Midland Texas and is a graduate of Texas Tech University.

Eric Rubenstein

Managing Partner, New Climate Ventures

Eric Rubenstein is Managing Partner at New Climate Ventures (“NCV”). Launched to tackle climate change with a holistic approach, NCV invests in innovative early-stage startups broadly across the carbon removal, reduction and avoidance ecosystems. NCV officially launched in October 2021, and has invested in companies that span the areas of climate tech, recycling, alternative materials, food tech, and energy transition, among other emissions avoiding technologies. Prior to founding New Climate Ventures, Eric held investment, fundamental strategy, and trading roles at Citigroup and Louis Dreyfus in their commodities and energy trading divisions respectively. A psychology major with a focus on behavioral neuroscience, Eric graduated Yale University with a Bachelor’s degree. After graduating Yale, Eric received his MBA from Temple University with a focus on global business and entrepreneurship.

Christopher Spears

Principal, bp Ventures

Chris is a principal at bp ventures, based in London. He focuses on biofuels & hydrogen investments. Chris is responsible for sourcing and executing investments, as well as supporting bp ventures’ portfolio companies through his board positions at Advanced Ionics and Syzygy Plasmonics.
Inspired by the belief that innovation will be vital to solving the climate crisis, and that viable business models exist outside of facilitating targeted advertisements, Chris decided to pursue a career at bp ventures. He holds a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of Florida and an M.S. in management science & engineering from Stanford University.

Andy Mukherjee

Senior Vice President, ST Energy, Grand Isle LNG Project

Andy Mukherjee P.E. has executed 6 LNG Projects. Solid background in project and construction management, modularization, FEED & EPC, related to mega projects including LNG, Ethane, FLNG, Marine Terminal, FPSO, LNG bunkering operation, Tank Farms, Petrochemicals, mining, infrastructure, and oil & gas in North America and overseas. Career progressed from Senior Engineer with hands-on design to maintenance, fabrication, and construction management. Contribution towards optimizing modularization is well recognized in Alberta.

Positions held:
Senior Vice President, ST Energy, Grand Isle LNG, Louisiana, USA
Project Director, Trans Mountain Pipeline, BC, Canada
Senior Vice President, Goldboro LNG, Canada
Project Management Consultant, NFE-LNG Project, Qatar Energy
Executive Director, Fluor, Sugarland, Texas, USA
Construction Manager, Cameron LNG, Hackberry, LA, USA
Contracts Management, Modules, K+S Potash, Saskatchewan, Canada
Engineering & Fabrication Manager, Ichthys LNG, INPEX, Japan
Modular Engineering & Construction, QCLNG, Bechtel, Houston, USA
Modularization Manager (Engineering & Fabrication), AtkinsRealis, Canada
Maintenance Engineer, Sonatrach, Hassi-R’Mel, Algeria
Senior Engineer, Engineers India Ltd, New Delhi, India

Rohan Dighe

Research Analyst, CCUS, Wood Mackenzie

Rohan is an analyst in our CCUS economics and valuations function. He focuses on developing financial models of North American CCUS projects, analysing market and regulatory trends in the United States and exploring emerging technologies in the CDR and CCUS space.
Prior to joining Wood Mackenzie, Rohan worked in various process, operations and optimisation engineering roles at Chevron Phillips Chemical Company in Texas.

Batt Odgerel

Director of Energy Transition Research, Energy Policy Research Foundation

Batt Odgerel is the Director of Energy Transition Research at the Energy Policy Research Foundation. In this role, he dedicates his efforts to addressing the complex energy trilemma, encompassing energy security, sustainability, and affordability. Prior to his current role, Batt served as a clean energy policy fellow at the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), where he assessed the U.S. government’s support for energy innovation and helped conduct research on international competition in critical energy technologies. Batt also worked as an associate at Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) and conducted his graduate practicum with DC Sustainable Energy Utility on energy efficiency.
His research primarily focuses on the key aspects of energy transition and energy security, and he possesses extensive expertise in Asian energy topics, including natural gas markets. Batt’s authored reports have appeared in respected publications such as Oil and Gas Journal and RealClearEnergy. He frequently shares his research findings with diverse audiences, spanning government, industry, and academia. Batt holds a master’s degree in energy policy and international economics from Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies, Washington, D.C.

Deanna Zhang

Founder & CEO, V1 Climate Solutions

Deanna Zhang is the Founder & CEO of V1 Climate Solutions, a firm developing solutions for the FOAK funding gap in climate tech. She previously led the Energy Technology Banking division at Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co., covering clients in areas such as energy software, industrial technology, environmental infrastructure, and alternative energy. She is a frequent speaker and writer on climate tech, energy transition, and climate finance. Deanna has a BA from Yale University and is a 2021 Forbes 30 under 30.

Alexis Griffin

Decarbonization Technology Director, Shell

Alexis started her career with Shell in 2005 as a Control Systems Engineer at the Convent refinery in Louisiana. Alexis graduated from Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and has an Executive MBA from The University of Memphis. She has held a variety of roles in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Development and Operational Excellence in industries including Chemicals, Energy and Aerospace. Most recently she was Decarbonization Director of the Utilities sector for Shell Energy North America where she collaborated with regulated and deregulated utilities as well as independent power producers to explore decarbonization pathways for heavy to abate industries.
In her current role as Decarbonization Technology Director, she collaborates with customers across the oil and gas, chemicals, midstream and power sectors to reduce their Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by licensing technologies such as CANSOLV for carbon capture and Shell’s Blue Hydrogen process for the production of low carbon hydrogen from natural gas. In her free time, Alexis enjoys spending time with her two sons, Jackson (age 10) and Carter (age 7), singing and playing classical music.

Venkatesh Balan

Associate Professor, University of Houston

Venkatesh Balan has been an Associate professor at Engineering Technology Department at College of Technology, University of Houston since September 2022. His research is concentrated in Biomass conversion to fuels, chemicals, edible mushrooms, animal feed and biomaterials. Other area of expertise including developing methods of producing and processing algal biomass to proteins, biofuel and biochemical, value addition to mushroom industrial waste and annotating fungal genes to identify novel enzymes for industrial application. He has published over 191 publications, awarded 9 patents with >16,500 citation to his credit and edited couple of books related to biomass conversion and microbial lipids. He also has served as an expert reviewer for numerous scientific journals and served on several scientific review panels.

Uday Turaga

Founder and CEO, ADI Analytics

Uday Turaga is Founder & CEO of ADI Analytics. Through 20 years of industry experience gained at ExxonMobil, ConocoPhillips, Booz, and ADI, Turaga brings deep commercial and technical expertise in oil and gas, coal, renewables, and chemicals. He specializes in corporate strategy, market research, economic analysis, competitive intelligence, and technology assessments with rich domain expertise spanning oil and gas exploration, production, and refining, coal and power, and chemicals. Turaga holds a PhD in fuel science from Penn State and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin. In addition to authoring over 100 papers and patents, he has been recognized by the U.S. National Academy of Engineering, the American Chemical Society, and the Penn State Alumni Association. Finally, Turaga has been featured in various news and media outlets including Wall Street Journal, National Public Radio, and Bloomberg, and is a frequent speaker on energy issues at conferences and events globally.

Vincent Lu

Senior Process & Systems Engineering Associate - CO2 Capture & Energy Transition, Air Liquide Engineering & Construction

Vincent Lu is the Senior Process & Systems Engineer for CO2 Capture and Energy Transition at Air Liquide Engineering & Construction US, based in Houston. He joined Air Liquide in 2012 and has gained over 11 years of experience in process engineering, project execution and solution development. Vincent has developed his expertise in cryogenic processes and technologies in carbon capture with Air Liquide’s CryocapTM technology. In his current role, Vincent is supporting the business development team on technical proposals for CO2 capture solutions in North America.
Vincent is one of Air Liquide’s Senior Local Experts for System Engineering and Cryo Processes & Technologies. He holds a Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Texas and a Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from Columbia University, New York.

Venkata M.R.Kapavarapu

Senior Process Engineer, Kuwait Oil Company (KOC)

Mr. Kapavarapu Venkata Madhusudana Rao had Engineering Bachelor's degree B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from the Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU-Hyderabad), college of Engineering Anantapur during 1992-196. He also Certified as Lead Auditor in ISO 9001:2008 Quality management programme by M/s Global Group in 2009.
Having around 26 years of experience in onshore and offshore (FPSO) and exposed to various industries like Oil & Gas sector (KOC-Kuwait Oil Company and Upstream Petroleum pty ltd –FPSO), Refinery sector (KNPC-Kuwait) and Petrochemicals (Tamilanadu Petro Products Ltd-Chennai) fields. Actively involved in various process engineering activities, project management activities. Currently working as a Specialist Process Engineer in KOC-Gas Operations Group under Gas Operations Team (S&EK).Extensively involved in Six Sigma process implementation in Gas Operations facilities. Associated with professional bodies like SPE, and Active Professional member in SPE Society of Petroleum Engineers since 2010.
Technical presentation Presented in ASPENTECH global conference “OPTIMIZE 2011” about Project optimization in May 2011 in Washington DC, USA. Technical white paper Published in 2011 APOGCE (Asia Pacific Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition) and IPTC -2011 on Six Sigma Process Optimization in Gas Dehydration Unit Facilities. Participated in 1st Middle East Process Engineering Conference-2011 during 23rd-26th October 2011 and presented technical Presentation on “Process Simulation Optimization”. Also Represented KOC –GMG / GOT (S&EK) in 6th International HSSE Professional Development Conference by presenting Technical Paper titled “Improving plant safety through Process Improvements and Risk Management”. Represented Gas Operations Team in 3rd KOC Best Practices conference which was held in Kuwait during 13th to 14th May 2012. Won 1st Engineering Excellence award in Year 2016 for the active involvement right from conceptual engineering to successful commissioning of LP Gas network debottlenecking In KOC area under the Projects category.
During the 6th TEF Engineering Excellency Awards and 13th TICE conference program won the Gold Category award for PROJECTS AND SERVICES ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE under the title of Project value Optimization for condensate(NGL) recovery in Kuwait on 27th October 2022.
Had complete experience in various activities like Process and Project Engineering specializations such as HAZID, HAZOP,FEED,QRA,EIA,SIL , LOPA, PROCESS ESD , C&E review , construction, pre-commissioning, commissioning and stabilization experience in the onshore KOC project implementation experience in Gas Booster stations. Involved in various new technologies successful implementation and associate studies for evaluation and validation. Hands on Experience in Process Engineering, Operations, HSSE and Plant reliability issues.

Abdul Hadi Al-Huwailah

Team Leader Gas Operations – S&EK, Kuwait Oil Company (KOC)

Dr. Abdulhadi Al Huwailah received (Bachelor Degree) in (Electrical Engineering) from Kuwait University of Engineering during (1996- 2001) and MBA from Al Ahlia University, Bahrain from 2006-2007.
Mr.AbdulHadi obtained Phd. Degree from Faculty of Business –Ain Shams University in “The Mediating Role of work Engagement in the relationship between Organizational Virtuoness and Job Performance”
Dr. Abdulhadi Al Huwailia is presently serving as Team Leader Gas Operations (South & East Kuwait) at Kuwait Oil Company with various achievements and responsibility at Group level and ensured Gas flaring reduction in entire KOC Assets. Had rich experience in various capacities in Kuwait Oil Company in Gas Supply chain and handled a wide spectrum of assignments including production operations, Gas operations. He was involved in Key strategic decisions for the company in order to ensure challenging projects are on track to meet future Hydrocarbon demand.
He had dedicated vision to Plans, organizes, directs, co-ordinates and provides Leadership management towards Instrument Maintenance, repairs, projects and modification work, in all Instrument plant machinery and equipment and building including the maintenance of air- conditioning and refrigeration, sand control both on site and off sites locations.
He also worked as a Team Leader Gas Operations (N&WK) and responsible for the largest upstream gas handling facilities in KOC. He is a member of almost all major gas-related task- force committees constituted by Kuwait Oil Company.

Jerrad Thomas

Senior Business Development Lead, Global CCS Institute

Jerrad is a Senior Business Development Lead based in Houston, TX of the United States. Before joining the Global CCS Institute, Jerrad worked as a Business Development Manager for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc. (MHIA) focused on carbon capture. Prior to MHIA, he managed a large-scale carbon capture demonstration program for Southern Company. His work demonstrating carbon capture at large scale earned two R&D100 awards, a first for the company’s research organization. Jerrad also worked at Eastman Chemical Company focused on commercializing amine solvents for carbon capture and midstream acid gas sweetening applications. Jerrad has spent over a decade working directly on carbon capture. He is an honors graduate from the University of Alabama, having completed Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering and Physics.

Arwa Rabie

Director of Technology Development, Reset Energy

Arwa holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Texas A&M University, College Station. She has 15+ years of experience in the energy sector where she has worked both domestically and internationally in the Gulf States and Europe. She holds expertise in Syngas and Hydrogen production.

Hiroyuki Takai

Material and Corrosion Engineer, JFE Steel Corporation

Steel pipe engineer for CCS (CO2 Injection tubing), Geothermal, H2 Storage)
Corrosion engineer for Steel Material
Expertise on various seamless pipe materials (Line pipe, Boiler tube etc.)

Merve Ergez

Principal Analyst, Carbon and Net-Zero Markets, Sempra Infrastructure

Merve Ergez is a Principal Analyst, Carbon and Net-Zero Markets at Sempra Infrastructure. She is responsible for decarbonization research for the company, covering relevant global policies, GHG emissions accounting, and CCUS, clean hydrogen and e-fuels applications. She advises on strategies to decarbonize the value chain and provides fundamental, competitive and regulatory analysis to support key net- zero decisions.
Prior to Sempra, Merve supported Wood Mackenzie’s global crude oil analysis and worked on the development and application of various proprietary research models. She has also supported Wood Mackenzie’s Gas & LNG Consulting team, and completed several large-scale client engagements, including an extensive low-carbon scenario under the Paris Agreement to determine how global and North American gas and LNG fundamentals might shift under a low-carbon future.
Merve holds a BS in Industrial Engineering as well as an MBA from Sabanci University, and an MS in Management Science from MIT Sloan School of Management.

John M. Repasky

Director Technology Development, Oxy Low Carbon Ventures

John Repasky, Director Technology Development, Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, Occidental
Mr. Repasky is Director Technology Development at Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, a subsidiary of Occidental, where he is responsible for activities across Carbon Capture Utilization & Sequestration (CCUS), Direct Air Capture (DAC), Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) gas plants, hydrogen & efuels, emissions monitoring technologies, technology prospecting & investing, and represents Oxy on the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative to accelerate the industry response to climate change. John joined Oxy in 2018 with over 25 years of engineering, R&D, and operations experience in the energy and industrial gas sectors. He is an inventor on over 20 patents and has authored 50 publications and conference presentations in the energy field. He holds degrees in Chemical Engineering from Bucknell University (B.S.) and Lehigh University (M.S.) and is a Senior Member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Thiam Giam

Senior Managing Director, Black & Veatch Management Consulting

I co-lead our technical and market advisory practice that supports various financing and M&A transactions.
Our team supports various clients with technical due diligence, market/retail tariff forecasting, transmission/nodal analysis, total addressable market (TAM), integrated resource planning, strategic advisory services related to various Energy, Oil & Gas, Water & Wastewater, Digital Infrastructure projects and/or companies.
Lately our team has been supporting various sponsors as independent technical and/or market advisor in debt/equity raise or the US Department of Energy (DOE) Loan Programs Office's (LPO's) loan guarantee program applications related to domestic US manufacturing projects.

Jacobo Canal

Carbon Removal Solutions Advisor, Repsol

Jacobo Canal is a Civil Engineer from the UdC (University of LA Coruña); he has a master's degree in Water and Environmental Engineering and a PhD in geological storage of CO2. Jacobo has 10 years' experience at Repsol, occupying different positions within technology, from aspects related to the laboratory to R&D product development. He has been working in CCS since 2007 and now he is currently advisor at Carbon Removal Solutions in Repsol. He is very active in mineralization aspects (in situ and ex situ mineralization).

Faisal Diab

CCS Permitting Advisor, Repsol

Faisal Diab is the Permitting Advisor & Manager of Stakeholder Engagement for Repsol’s flagship Carbon Capture & Storage project in Corpus Christi. He has extensive government affairs, legislative and regulatory policy experience in both the domestic and international arena and has represented a wide range of clients in the oil & gas industry by advocating for the energy industry’s freedom to operate across a multitude of jurisdictions.
Prior to Faisal’s joining of Repsol USA, he served as the Director of Global Policy & Government Affairs for EnerGeo, a boutique geoscience consultancy, where he oversaw political engagement and legislative strategy for the firm, as well as developing the CCS portfolio.

Martin Mayer

Vice President LNG, Low Carbon Solutions, McDermott

Martin is Vice President LNG. He provides global strategic product line/technology leadership for McDermott, including development activities, marketing & market direction, together with project support and risk management. He has 30 years’ experience in the LNG and gas processing industry. His experience comes from both contractor and operating companies, covering the complete project lifecycle from feasibility, conceptual and detailed design, through to commissioning, plant testing and modifying process plants. Martin has worked on LNG liquefaction export and import plants (onshore and floating), gas processing, air separation and LNG peak shaving plants in Europe, Africa, Middle East, North and South America, Asia and Australia.

Erin Bryant

Director of Corporate Affairs, Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA)

Erin is currently the director at the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) Corporate Affairs Department. LIUNA’s more than 80 multiemployer pension plans have a combined value of $40 billion and have been investing in infrastructure for over ten years. Erin directs and coordinates LIUNA’s capital stewardship and corpo- rate governance programs, develops education and training for fund trustees, and provides capital market research for LIUNA. LIUNA is the most progressive, most aggressive and fastest-growing union of con- struction workers, as well as one of the most diverse and effective unions representing public service employees.

Fernando C. Hernandez

Chairman of the Board, Society for Low Carbon Technologies

Fernando C. Hernandez initiated his career as a mechanic in 2002 with Plug Power, specializing in cryogenic transportation of hydrogen, CO2, and LNG. Since then, Forbes has featured him, and he is currently the Chairman of the Board at the Society for Low Carbon Technologies. Fernando is also a Business Ambassador (GlobalScot) to Scotland, directly appointed by Scotland’s longest-serving First Minister for his contributions in the energy realm. In his role as Carbon Capture Storage (CCS) Brasil’s International Chairman, he successfully advanced South America's first legislation for CCS, which received Brazilian senate approval.
When it comes to energy and low carbon, he is a published author and philanthropist, as well as an inventor and patent holder, while fast-tracking the success of emerging technologies. Fernando’s accomplishments with CCS, hydrogen, and sustainable technologies have earned him recognition as a multi-award-winning technology mentor by the UK’s Net Zero Technology Centre, which is backed by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, bp, and Equinor.
Notably, his trilingual fluency has facilitated the execution of projects and commercial initiatives on multiple continents. Fernando’s prowess in international energy and technology has led him to meet with presidents and ministers of various countries, as covered by the press.