SolarCraft

SolarCraft Leadership Team

Meet the SolarCraft Team

We consider ourselves lucky to be in position to make a difference, helping customers save money and helping to save the environment.  Many of our team members are trailblazers in the renewable energy industry and offer our customers a wealth of experience and expertise in solar technology, design/build craftsmanship, energy policy, finance, utility regulations, and local industry.  Meet some members of the team…

Business Operations

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Phil Alwitt

CEO
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Phil Alwitt | CEO

After 17 years building and selling two businesses, Phil followed his altruistic passion and started working in the solar and renewable energy industry in 2007. Two years after selling residential and commercial solar installations, Phil, an industrial designer by training, had the opportunity to develop the world’s first solar arrays to float on water. He has run the product management team at a local solar installation company and worked for Siemens to help Northern California Cities and Counties implement energy efficiency and renewable energy systems. Phil is a certified project manager (PMP) and a former licensed California contractor. He actively volunteers to help Marin County develop and execute their ambitious Marin Drawdown program. When not promoting clean energy you will find Phil biking and hiking around Marin County.
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Ted Walsh

Vice President of Sales
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Ted Walsh | Vice President of Sales

Ted has been a leader in the solar industry for more than 10 years, and has led several local solar companies to national prominence while developing more than 100 commercial projects and several hundred residential solar projects within his community. Most recently, Ted was President of a leading national commercial solar provider based in Petaluma, leading their growth and eventual acquisition by the nation’s largest utility. Ted combines a high level of integrity, customer perspective and personnel management experience with expertise in local energy markets, project finance, renewable energy technology and the unique culture and diversity of the North Bay community. Ted holds degrees in Economics, Managerial Accounting, and Chemistry from the University of Rochester and the University of South Florida, respectively. A lifelong athlete, he competed in the decathlon in college and played professional basketball in Europe. He coaches youth sports locally, volunteers for local community and sustainability programs, and lives in Western Marin County with his wife and two young children. Walking the walk, Ted drives a hybrid, lives in as solar powered eco-friendly house and his kids’ middle names are Sunshine and Wind.
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Genevieve Brown

Vice President of Human Resources
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Genevieve Brown | Vice President of Human Resources

After living in Hawaii and NYC, Genevieve found her home in beautiful Northern California. Since 2006 she has enjoyed serving staff and employers in human resources roles. Company culture is what YOU bring to the company. Let’s have fun and work strategically! Certified Senior Human Resources Professional, she enjoys family (hubby and son), early morning Mt. Tam hiking, and working with the smart and committed people at SolarCraft.
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Tricia Companey

Director of Finance & Accounting
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Tricia Companey | Director of Finance & Accounting

She earned her AA from Empire Business School and has 20+ years of experience in Accounting. Tricia was born and raised in Sonoma County, and lives there currently with her son.  In her free time, she loves being with her son, painting and being outdoors.
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Operations

Craig Powell

Director of Residential Operations
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Craig Powell | Director of Residential Operations

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Janell Azevedo

Operations Manager, Residential
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Janell Azevedo| Operations Manager, Residential

Janell was born and raised in Solano County and moved to Marin County in 2019. She has 4 years of experience in the Solar industry and 3 of those years gearing her focus towards project management and customer satisfaction.  She’s excited to continue to expand her experience in the solar industry and educating customers on the benefits of going green. When she’s not working, she likes to fill her time with art and travel.
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Alex Nix

Commercial Design Engineer
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Alex Nix | Commercial Design Engineer

Alex joined SolarCraft in 2016 after seven years as a solar designer and engineer. Besides designing our commercial systems, he adds his project development and estimating skills and works as an interconnection specialist to see all jobs to fruition.  Alex has an A.S. in Natural Science and Engineering and is currently finishing his engineering degree. He lives in Sonoma with his wife and five kids where they run the town on their bicycles.
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Justin Rippeto

Commercial Project Manager
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Justin Rippeto | Commercial Project Manager

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Matt Collins

Residential Solar Designer
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Matt Collins | Residential Solar PV Designer

Matt joined SolarCraft in 2020 with 5 years of experience in residential solar design ranging from startup companies to national installers. He holds a BA degree in Environmental Studies from Prescott College in Arizona, and he attended Humboldt State University towards a MS in Environmental Resource Engineering. Matt is committed to sustainable living by reducing his carbon footprint and living a vegan lifestyle. In his spare time, Matt enjoys sailing, cycling, yoga, and travelling with a purpose.
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Zach Schlabach

Technical Service Manager – Residential
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Zach Schlabach | Technical Service Manager - Residential

After years of working in the trades while going to school to study Energy Management and Design, Zach earned his B.A.  He decided to pursue his passion in green energy and make a difference in a booming industry. After 4 years of solar training at Summit Technology Group, Zach joined SolarCraft to continue his growth and knowledge in the industry. He has an AA from Santa Rosa Junior College and BA  from Sonoma State University. He lives in Sonoma County with his girlfriend and two dogs, and is a Crossfit enthusiast.
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Roy Lembi

Technical Service Manager – Commercial
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Roy Lembi | Technical Service Manager - Commercial

Roy started his career in the High-tech industry after gaining his AS degree in Electronic Engineering from Heald College.  After leaving the High-Tech industry, Roy acquired his General Contractors License and worked as an independent contractor, specializing in kitchen and bath remodels.  Joining SolarCraft in 2010, Roy started as a Thermal/PV Service Technician and worked his way to Technical Service Manager and Consultant for the Thermal department and then to Technical Service Manager for the Commercial PV division.  SolarCraft has been a perfect fit for Roy with his interest in green technology and his technical background.  A Novato native, Roy now lives in Sonoma County with his teenage son and enjoys camping and fishing whenever possible.
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Chiara Rocciola

Assistant Project Manager
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Chiara Rocciola| Assistant Project Manager

Chiara was born and raised in Petaluma, where she still lives today. Chiara has completed an Associate’s Degree in Natural Sciences from the Santa Rosa Junior College and is in the process of completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Project Management from Colorado State University. Joining SolarCraft in 2019, she is excited to be a part of a green company.
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Talon Russell

Field Operations Manager
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Talon Russell | Field Operations Manager

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Corey Shields

Project Manager
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Corey Shields| Project Manager

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Jean Zuhorski

Warehouse & Procurement Manager
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Jean Zuhorski | Warehouse & Procurement Manager

Jean joins SolarCraft after spending 6 years at Spectra Watermakers in Petaluma managing the warehouse & purchasing of over 3,000 parts. Some of the desalinators Spectra produces run entirely on solar. Jean also spent time in Hollywood working at several studios (mostly Warner Bros.) as a Producer and Production Manager for several network tv sitcoms.  She has had a lot of experience making sure all the people, equipment and stuff are prepped and ready to go when the schedule calls. She enjoys driving boats, vans, electric vehicles (Smart car, skateboard, scooter, bike…you name it). If it is mechanical, solar, or runs on a battery… Jean wants to know more about it!
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Aaron Bell

Residential Foreman
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Aaron Bell | Residential Foreman

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Sales & Marketing

Kimberly Burnett

Marketing Manager
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Kimberly Burnett | Marketing Manager

Kimberly joined SolarCraft in 2006, bringing over 20 years of marketing experience. Prior to joining SolarCraft, she was a Product Manager at Birkenstock for 9 years. Before her career at Birkenstock, Kimberly worked for Carme’ Natural Cosmetics Manufacturer as the Customer Service/Marketing Manager, and also worked in production at Cedco Publishing. She earned her BA in Marketing Management from Sonoma State University. A life-long Marin native, she lives in Kentfield with her husband, son and two dogs.  In her free time she can be found at a local yoga studio, exploring West Marin or in her garden.
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Dana Smith

Commercial Project Development
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Dana Smith | Commercial Business Development

Dana began his solar career at SolarCraft in 2010, initially in Residential Sales, Sales Administration and Sales Management. Since 2015, Dana has been part of the Commercial Sales Team at SolarCraft.  By mid-2019 that amounted to 30 projects, 2.5 MW of installed solar and $8 million dollars of commercial sales.  Dana combines a high level of integrity, and customer perspective with expertise in local energy markets, project finance, renewable energy technology and the unique culture and diversity of the North Bay community.  Prior to solar, Dana was involved with a series of companies that offered SAAS and cloud hosted business services. When not working long hours in solar, you will find Dana hiking or mountain biking in the hills of Marin County.
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Jeannie Alderson

Commercial Project Development
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Jeannie Alderson | Commercial Project Development

In 2009, Jeannie pursued a career path that would combine her interests in leadership, service, and business, while impacting the triple bottom line; profit, people, and planet. She earned a Masters from the University of Denver in Environmental Policy and Management, with a concentration in Alternative Energy and Sustainability.  After way too many Michigan winters, she moved back to the North Bay to take advantage of the sun; to power our buildings, fuel our cars, and extend her golf season! Jeannie applies her educational background, business development and leadership skills, along with government contract experience to increase the adoption of solar energy in Northern California as a Commercial Solar Developer.
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Kaurie Engle

Sales Operations Manager
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Kaurie Engle | Sales Operations Manager

Kaurie grew up in East Contra Costa County, and made the move to Sonoma County for her college career in 2014. Kaurie graduated from Sonoma State University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in business. Prior to working for SolarCraft she worked as an Operations/Human Resources Manager in the retail world. She joined the company in 2019, seeking to start a career that lined up with her values and beliefs.  She has been training with SolarCraft to develope her knowledge and love for solar.  Kaurie has a strong passion of clean and renewable energy, is proud to be a part of the solar industry, and is thankful to be on the SolarCraft team.  In her free time she enjoys camping, fishing, taking her dog on walks, and enjoying the outdoors with friends and family.
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David Berry

Residential Clean Energy Consultant
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David Berry | Residential Clean Energy Consultant

David has over 16 years experience in solar energy design, installation and consultation. Starting out as an installer in the solar pool heating division, he quickly moved up the ranks and became a crew chief in the solar electric division.  David’s background in installation has proven extremely beneficial on the consultation side over the past 10 years.  David has provided close to 1,000 residential solar consultations.  David holds a BA from the University of New Haven, Connecticut. A Connecticut native, David has lived in Novato for the past 15 years and is a father of twins, a boy & a girl. David is currently the girl’s varsity lacrosse head coach at San Marin High School.
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Taylor Mansir

Residential Clean Energy Consultant
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Taylor Mansir | Residential Clean Energy Consultant

Taylor has always been passionate about sustainable energy. After graduating from San Francisco State University he began his clean energy journey which took him all throughout CA, learning valuable education on major utilities and perspective on the largest solar market in the world. From community engagement to managing large teams of consultants, Taylor has always been dedicated to solar and clean energy. Taylor enjoys educating clients on their clean energy options from consultation to post installation follow up. In his spare time you will find Taylor with wife Sam and sons Miles and Mack.
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Robert Arnold

Residential Clean Energy Consultant
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Robert Arnold | Residential Clean Energy Consultant

Robert has been in the solar industry since 2009 working with distributors, manufacturers and contractors. With over twenty years engaged in large enterprise sales ranging from foods to technology, he has found solar to be the most rewarding industry to work in. He’s grateful for the many friends he’s made in California and Hawaii while working in solar. He truly appreciates the opportunity to help people benefit from solar energy.  Before his sales career, Robert pursued his lifelong love of aviation while working as an Air Traffic Controller in the US Marine Corps. He served four years with the Marines on the West Coast and in the Far East, including Okinawa and South Korea. When possible, Robert uses the SMART train to commute and rides an electric scooter the last mile to his office in Novato. In his free time he often rides motorcycles near his home in Sonoma County. He also enjoys barbecuing with a smoker, cooking , wine tasting, bicycling, skiing, and taking long walks with his fiancé and two dogs.
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Jon O’Day

Residential Clean Energy Consultant
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Jon O'Day | Residential Clean Energy Consultant

Jon O’Day started in the construction business in the late 60’s while going to college studying electrical / mechanical engineering.  After serving an apprenticeship and getting a few years of experience under his belt, he opened his own construction company.  Later, Jon utilized his engineering background and started an energy conservation company with projects ranging from heat recovery to thermal solar.   By 2004, Jon was ready to retire, or so he thought.  Jon discovered that he wasn’t ready to retire and decided to go back to work on the sales side  and solar seemed like a natural fit.  Jon lives Santa Rosa after 30+ years in Penngrove.
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Justin Summons

Residential Clean Energy Consultant
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Justin Summons | Residential Clean Energy Consultant

Justin is environmentally mindful and is passionate about sustainable energy. He has recently moved from Australia where he taught science to our future generations. He now has pursued his passion for solar into sales with SolarCraft. With a Masters of Education Justin loves teaching people not only about solar but how to help them save money and invest in the future. When he is not selling a cleaner future he loves sailing and kitesurfing with his wife and two daughters.
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Michael Hughes

Residential Clean Energy Consultant
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Michael Huges | Residential Clean Energy Consultant

Michael supports solar photovoltaic and battery energy storage project development at SolarCraft, and has extensive experience in residential solar energy sales, state energy policy research, and climate action and sustainability planning for local governments. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science from Tufts School of Engineering and a Master of Science in Energy Policy from Johns Hopkins, and greatly enjoys communicating with project owners on aspects of engineering feasibility, financial investment returns, and environmental benefits of local energy and climate solutions. In his free time, Michael can be found exploring new hiking trails in the North Bay, appreciating epic views of the Pacific Ocean, working on fitness goals, or practicing chess gambits with friends.
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Sean Nassiri

Clean Energy Consultant
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Sean Nassiri | Clean Energy Consultant

Sean brings a passion for clean energy and nearly two decades of experience in solar and battery storage to SolarCraft and the clients and partners he works with.  Sean’s well-rounded expertise, benefitting hundreds of Bay Area homeowners, includes work in solar and storage installation, utility interconnection, sales, finance and operations – valuable experience and expertise that he is happy to share with his neighbors and community in his hometown of Santa Rosa, the Bay Area and beyond. When he isn’t digging into the details of the latest innovations and news about solar, he can be found with his daughter going to the theater, concerts or hiking with his German Shepherd around Sonoma County.
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Darren Kelly

Director of Business Development
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Darren Kelly | Director of Business Development

Darren is committed to driving the development of solar energy and energy storage projects. Darren is a senior commercial project developer at SolarCraft and brings over 9-years solar energy and energy storage system management experience. Darren has developed over $20M is solar and ESS sales. He is proficient at system design, modeling and proposing the economics of solar and energy storage, using traditional cash financing, P.A.C.E., Lease and Power Purchase Agreements (PPA’s). Darren has been a Marin county resident since 1991. He has lived in Fairfax for the past 22-years with his wife, three children, two dogs and one cat. Darren has coached CYO girls’ basketball and grade-school robotics club assistant coach. If Darren’s not developing solar energy projects, you will find him mountain biking Mount Tamalpais.
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Jonathan Morquecho

Sales & Operations Admin Assistant
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Jonathan Morquecho | Sales & Operations Admin Assistant

Although new to solar when Jonathan joined SolarCraft he brings many years experience in sales, marketing, and service. Jonathan worked in the automotive industry for 5 years with Porsche and various other brands, so he brought his skills and knowledge into the solar industry and hit the ground running. Out of the office you can find him carving through downhills on his mountain bike, taking his cocker spaniel out on car rides or you can catch him eating sushi at his favorite spot in Petaluma.
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Board of Directors

Bill Stewart

Chairman/Co-Founder
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Bill Stewart | Chairman/Co-Founder

Bill Stewart joined the solar industry in 1978, co-founded SolarCraft in 1984 and has since helped to build one of the most recognized names in the industry. Bill holds B (General Building), C10 (electrical) and C46 (solar) contractor’s licenses and has served as a Subject Matter Expert for the California State Licensing Board for the development and update of the C46 Solar License requirements for over ten years. He is one of a few individuals who has been certified both in Photovoltaic and Thermal technologies, as well as Technical Sales and Design, by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Bill formerly served on the Board of Directors of the The California Solar & Storage Association (CALSSA), and is a former founding Board Member of the Marin Economic Forum and is also a member of the North Bay Leadership Council. Bill and his wife Deborah are longtime Sonoma residents where they also own and operate SoloQuest Learning Center, an accredited private school where Middle and High School students learn through individualized and small group instruction.

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Genevieve Brown

Director
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Genevieve Brown | Director

After living in Hawaii and NYC, Genevieve found her home in beautiful Northern California. Since 2006 she has enjoyed serving staff and employers in human resources roles. Company culture is what YOU bring to the company. Let’s have fun and work strategically! Certified Senior Human Resources Professional, she enjoys family (hubby and son), early morning Mt. Tam hiking, and working with the smart and committed people at SolarCraft.
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Jack Peurach

Director
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Jack Peurach | Director

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Team SolarCraft

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