Partial Speaker Line-Up

Shalanda H. Baker, the University of Michigan’s first vice provost for sustainability and climate action, previously served as Director of Energy Justice at the U.S. Department of Energy, professor at Northeastern University, co-founded the Initiative for Energy Justice, advocated for repealing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," and is an Air Force veteran.

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Kameale C. Terry, co-founder and CEO of ChargerHelp!, is an innovative leader in clean energy and mobility who leverages data analytics and technology to enhance electric vehicle charging reliability, drive workforce development, and empower historically marginalized communities.

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Brett Isaac, a proud member of the Navajo Nation from Baby Rocks, CEO of Navajo Power and founder of Navajo Power Home, leverages his heritage and expertise to drive equitable, culturally tailored solar and battery storage solutions, empowering Indigenous communities toward a just and sustainable energy transition.​​

Brandie Ekren, Executive Director of Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP), is a seasoned energy industry leader with over 20 years of experience in strategic planning, renewable energy, and transformative leadership, dedicated to guiding TCLP toward a resilient and sustainable energy future.

Brynn C. Cooksey, Sr., known as the "Air Doctor," owns Air Doctors Heating and Cooling, LLC in Southfield, MI. He founded HVAC U, LLC, training over 10,000 HVACR professionals, and is recognized among the industry's Top 25 Instructors.

Experienced CEO with a demonstrated history of working in the renewable energy industry. Skilled in Renewable Energy Systems, Analytical Skills, Management, Batteries, and Leadership. Strong engineering professional with a Master's degree focused in Mechanical Engineering / Alternative Energy Systems from Oakland University.

Paul Dearhouse, a Senior Outreach & Business Development Consultant at the U.S. Department of Energy's Tribal Energy Finance Program, connects Indigenous communities to resources supporting clean energy, housing, food systems, and cultural initiatives, drawing from his Mohawk and Anishinaabe heritage and engineering background.

Mario Swaidan is a pioneering commercial drone pilot and founder of Drone Capital, a marketplace for booking drone pilots. An FAA-certified pilot since 2016, he's partnered with Michigan State University’s Conquer Accelerator and hosts the Detroit Drone Film Festival.

Tolulope Sonuyi, MD, Emergency Medicine Physician and Assistant Professor at Detroit Medical Center and Wayne State University, passionately advocates for Detroit’s youth through health-rooted, community-driven solutions addressing violence, earning numerous accolades including Crain’s Health Hero Award.

Dr. Tony G. Reames, Director of the Detroit Sustainability Clinic at U-M, is an energy justice scholar, former Biden-Harris Administration DOE appointee, U.S. Army veteran, and founder of the Urban Energy Justice Lab addressing racial and economic energy disparities.

Natalie King is Founder and CEO of Dunamis Clean Energy Partners, a woman-owned, MBE-certified green energy firm specializing in EV charger manufacturing and energy efficiency solutions. A seasoned corporate attorney, King is dedicated to community advocacy and nonprofit leadership.

Johnnie Turnage is an award-winning grassroots activist and tech entrepreneur with nearly 15 years of experience. Co-founder of Black Tech Saturdays, Johnnie leverages his extensive background in social justice, labor organizing, and community empowerment to drive innovation in technology spaces.

Derrick Meeking, Director of Workforce Development at Walker-Miller Energy Services, is an experienced leader in workforce training, talent development, and clean energy initiatives, dedicated to fostering inclusive economic opportunities and advancing equity within the renewable energy sector.

Terry Sobolewski, CEO of Franklin Energy, brings over 20 years of energy and finance expertise. He leads strategic vision and employee-driven success, holds a BSE and MBA from Duke University, and advises Duke’s Center for Energy (EDGE).

Hiram E. Jackson is CEO of Real Times Media, transforming it into a leading African American multimedia company. An acclaimed entrepreneur and philanthropist, he actively shapes community development through impactful business ventures, civic leadership, and strategic investments nationwide.

Wendy Lewis Jackson, Managing Director of Detroit Programs at The Kresge Foundation, champions Detroit’s revitalization, advancing economic opportunities for underserved communities. A respected leader and philanthropist, Wendy holds board roles with Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, Marygrove Conservancy, and Jalen Rose Leadership Academy.

Darren Riley is Co-Founder & CEO of JustAir, a Detroit-based environmental tech company delivering real-time air quality data to support healthier communities. Inspired by his own asthma diagnosis, he leads with purpose and innovation in environmental justice and technology.

Garlin Gilchrist II, Michigan’s Lieutenant Governor, is a software engineer and problem-solver focused on justice reform, health equity, innovation, and economic opportunity. He leads with data-driven solutions to make government work better for every Michigan resident and community.

Ben Dueweke, Director of the Michigan Climate Investment Hub, is a civil engineer turned energy professional advancing equitable clean energy solutions. He bridges government, industry, and community to drive energy efficiency, building performance, and sustainable investment across Michigan’s climate economy.

Dr. Brandy Brown is a nationally recognized energy expert and founder of Sadberry Singer, leading equity-first climate and energy solutions. She formerly served as Michigan’s inaugural Climate & Energy Advisor and Chief Innovation Officer at Walker-Miller Energy Services.

Deeana Ijaz, Ph.D., Chief Strategy Officer at Our Next Energy (ONE), leads corporate strategy, sustainability, and government relations. A national clean energy leader, she helped secure $515M in funding and serves on key workforce and environmental boards advancing energy innovation.