STAFF

Antoine ThompsonCEO/Executive Director

Antoine Maurice Thompson is a native of Buffalo, New York. He graduated from Buffalo Public Schools #61, #60, and Bennett High School. A graduate of SUNY Brockport with a dual bachelors’ degree in History and African and Afro-American Studies, Thompson also studied at the University of Ghana in Ghana, West Africa. Antoine is the recipient of an Honorary Doctorate of Laws Degree from Medaille College. He is a graduate of the 2001 Class of Leadership Buffalo.

Antoine M. Thompson is a nationally recognized leader for environmental justice, green business, housing, diversity and urban policy.  Antoine is the Executive Director of the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC), a public-private partnership that promotes the use of clean, American transportation fuels for homeland security, improved air quality, environment justice, diversity and inclusion.

He is the former Executive Director of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) the oldest organization of African-American real estate professionals in the United States. Antoine led efforts to increase advocacy on Capitol Hill on closing the racial wealth gap through increasing the rate of Black homeownership.

He had a significant public service career in his hometown of Buffalo, New York. His positions have included election to Buffalo Common Council where he authored the Buffalo’s Fair Housing Law, the Minority and Women Business Enterprise Inclusion Law and secured over $75 million for community development projects. He was elected to the New York State Senate in 2006 and 2008 and served as the Senate Deputy Majority Whip and the first African-American to Chair the Senate Standing Committee on Environmental Conservation and Co-Chair of the Senate Minority and Woman Business Enterprise Task Force. He authored the NYS MWBE Mentor/Protégé Law. He was key architect of the Green Jobs/Green New York law.

Antoine is a partner in Creative PMO Solutions. He is also a licensed real estate agent in New York State. Antoine is married to Tracey Thompson, and the father of Deja L. Thompson and Joseph A. Thompson. He is a member of First Baptist Church of Glenarden in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Antoine is a Silver Life Member of the NAACP, and a longtime member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Kimberly HardenAssociation Manager

Kimberly Harden is the Managing Member of K. Harden & Associates, LLC a Maryland-based event planning and association  management company. Her company works with small businesses, non-profit organizations, corporations and trade associations. Ms. Harden is also the principal of Majestic Day Event Planners which is a social event planning company that provides event planning services and products to consumers. With nearly twenty-five years of experience in the event planning and association management industry, Ms. Harden has become noteworthy for her abilities, creativity, and keen attention to detail. She is well able to handle multiple tasks, refer her clients to reputable vendors, develop and comply within specified budgets, and provide money saving tips while maintaining a high level of professionalism.

Ms. Harden, a Business Administration major at Villa Julie College (now known as Stevenson University) and a graduate of Women Entrepreneurs of Baltimore (WEB) has been afforded several business opportunities and resources. From these learning institutions, she has acquired a passion for learning. Education and her strong commitment to her clients have been invaluable to her company. Her most recent accomplishment includes completion of the Meeting Planning Management course at Goucher College in June 2000. Ms. Harden looks forward to the future as she plans to move into higher dimensions with her business. Her primary goal is to provide optimal customer service to every client and to continue to strive towards being noted as a cutting edge event planning and association management firm.

Dianne Little Executive Assistant

Dianne Little is a resolute, organized, and well-established professional with over 15 years of experience in executive assistance roles, having served as an executive assistant to an Executive Director, a Senior Vice President, and a Chief Nursing Officer within dynamic industries. Ms. Little is accustomed to the rigors of fast-paced, highly regulated environments requiring sharp attention to detail, consummate accuracy, and outstanding communication skills. She has proven success in performing administrative duties with utmost discretion, confidentiality, and professionalism. She has a reputable track record in managing multiple, complex calendars while meeting strict deadlines and adhering to company guidelines as well as a demonstrated strong ability to multitask and navigate various tasks by prioritizing workflows and effectively managing schedules for executives to safeguard smooth business operation. She is highly skilled in liaising with all levels and presenting/communicating complex information to team members and clients while maintaining professional business relationships.

Ms. Little is a native Washingtonian. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems Management from the University of Maryland University College, and, along with her two daughters, had a local modelling career with CK Fashions, Inc. Currently, she is co-owner and lead designer of Relegance Boutique, an on-line fashion and accessory line that creates unique, one-of-kind pieces of jewelry using upcycled goods that are created into “wearable pieces of art”.

Laurel Mack-Wilson Marketing and Outreach Coordinator

Laurel is a public relations and event planning specialist. She coordinates GWRCCC’s social media content, event promotion, community outreach events, and other media relations.

Before coming to GWRCCC, she worked at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce in Washington State as a Communication and BIPOC Business Outreach Coordinator, connecting BIPOC businesses with resources and each other.

Laurel graduated from Seattle University with a BA in Communication and Media, focusing in Strategic Communication. She loves to help people succeed, and believes communication that brings people together is a crucial step toward helping her clients meet their goals. Laurel is passionate about climate change and is excited to help GWRCCC move the needle on equity in clean energy.

Jill Harrison Consultant

Jill Harrison is a master-mind consultant who uses her proven skills in leadership, administration, and organization and infuses them with a mix of digital and traditional media, public relations and spot on marketing tactics, she is able to make her clients “look & feel like Rock Stars”!

Jill had a long and successful career in the non-profit, public and private sectors. She attributes her success to hard work, innovation, and creativity. In 2018, Jill launched Lloyd Rochelle Marketing & Consultants, a marketing , public relations, business consultative firm named after her grandfather, Lloyd Cunningham Sr & Rochelle Gonzales. In 2021, she started her own real estate investing company called Jill Estate!

Last November, Jill added another area of expertise to her long and illustrious professional career, politics. She qualified, ran her campaign winning the election for City Council in her city of Oglethorpe, Georgia. This was indeed a history making feat, as Councilwoman Harrison is the first African American female to serve in this capacity in the city’s 173 year history!

Durrell JonesCommunity Engagement Liaison

Durrell Jones is a dedicated and accomplished marketing professional from Fairmount Heights, Maryland. He graduated with distinction from Bowie State University, where he earned a degree in Marketing and a minor in Administration.

Currently serving as a Community Liaison for the Greater Washington Regional Clean Cities Coalition, Durrell thrives in his role as a bridge between the community and clean energy initiatives. With his exceptional communication skills and passion for sustainability, he effectively engages stakeholders and fosters collaborative relationships to drive positive change.

During his time at Bowie State University, Durrell demonstrated his commitment to environmental awareness and community engagement by actively participating in sustainability clubs and leading various environmentally focused projects. This experience nurtured his understanding of the importance of sustainable practices and their impact on both individuals and communities.

Building on his academic foundation, Durrell has translated his knowledge and passion into action through his work with the Greater Washington Regional Clean Cities Coalition. In this role, he plays a pivotal part in promoting alternative fuel usage, reducing emissions, and enhancing public awareness of clean energy technologies.

Durrell’s expertise in marketing and his ability to understand and communicate complex concepts make him an invaluable resource for the coalition. His strong interpersonal skills enable him to establish and maintain partnerships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, industry leaders, and community organizations.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Durrell remains committed to personal growth and development. He actively seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge of emerging clean energy technologies and sustainable practices, allowing him to provide timely and informed guidance to both colleagues and community members.

With his friendly and approachable demeanor, Durrell exemplifies the qualities of an influential community liaison. His dedication to promoting sustainable solutions coupled with his marketing acumen positions him as a valuable asset to the Greater Washington Regional Clean Cities Coalition and the broader community.

Eleanor Cupp Web Developer

Eleanor is the web developer for the GWRCCC. She is proud to guide the GWRCCC website in its goal to be both a resource for economic, environmental, and alternative energy fuel issues,  as well as a resource for environmental equity and justice.

Eleanor is still trying to figure out if she is an artistic person who does tech, or a techy person who is passionate about art. With a double major in Art History and Music from University of Arizona and an MA/MFA in Integrated Electronic Arts from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), she has a foot in both camps. Throughout her career of working with small businesses, she has used both her technical and artistic skills for video streaming and web content work, as well as being a facility security officer, hiring officer and technical web guru. Above all, she enjoys the challenge of constantly learning new technologies and putting them to use. In her spare time she likes to garden, hear live music, and go to museums.

Khadijah Shaw Intern

Khadijah Shaw is a Maryland native. She graduated from Prince George’s County public schools in 2018. She is currently attending Bowie State University where she plans to graduate in 2023 with her Bachelors of Science in Biology. Khadijah is an advocate for sustainability. She is co-chair of the Student Sustainability organization on campus, where she helps plan events to raise awareness of climate change and helps organize campus wide cleanups.

She assists the GWRCCC team by planning community involvement events to give the Greater Washington Region a better understanding of green jobs as well as helping raise awareness of clean energy.

In her spare time she enjoys exploring the city, trying different foods and photography.

Kiara MooreCommunication and Social Media Intern

Kiara Moore is a junior Broadcast Journalism major at Bowie State University and is graduating in May 2025. She was born and raised in Washington DC but currently lives in Bowie MD. She is a campus ambassador for Good Molecules, a prominent skincare brand and a part of the Bowie State Gospel Choir. She enjoys reading romance novels, working out at the gym, binging old Disney+ classics and writing! As a communications and social media intern at GWRCCC, she has been dedicated to honing her skills in effective communication and bringing awareness to the cause of the organization. She brings a fresh perspective to the team, eager to contribute innovative ideas and enhance the organization’s outreach efforts.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jill HamiltonBoard Chair, GWRCCC | President, Sustainable Energy Strategies

Jill Hamilton is Founder and President of Sustainable Energy Strategies, Inc. (SESI). She has more than 25 years of consulting experience in the alternative transportation fuels industry. Over the past 20 years, Jill and her team have raised hundreds of millions of dollars for the biofuels industry. She also is a trusted advisor to the National Clean Cities Program. She is Chair of the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalitions.

For the past 20 years, she has provided ethanol market development for the Mid-Atlantic region on behalf of the Maryland Grain Producers. She is also a key consultant to the National Biodiesel Board and its Foundation. In addition to her biofuels background, she brings a deep familiarity of government grant writing, project management and project fundraising. Prior to starting SESI, she co-managed Information Resources, Inc. Alternative Fuels Division and ran the National Alternative Fuels Hotline for the Department of Energy.

Jim DankowskiPast Chair, GWRCCC | Manager, Nat'l Business Development, Eaton Corporation

In  his current role as Eaton’s Federal Government Marketing Director, Jim Dankowski oversees the strategic planning, value proposition development and customer engagement for the government segment.  With 39 years of experience in the electrical power distribution and control industry, his knowledge has delivered unique and creative solutions that support Eaton’s clients with their energy initiatives and facility/systems optimization efforts.

Anne SteckelVice Chair, GWRCCC | Principal, Ardent Strategies

Anne has over 20 years of experience in fostering relationships, framing policy and delivering results for companies in the energy, transportation and agriculture sectors.   She has successfully led and motivated geographically distributed teams of people with diverse responsibilities in public policy, government affairs, finance and budgeting, fundraising, constituent relations, public relations and legal.

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Carla LongshoreSecretary, GWRCCC | Associate Director of Transit Delivery, DC Department Of Transportation

Carla Longshore is the Associate Director of Transit Delivery at the District Department of Transportation (DDOT). She has worked in the transportation industry in Washington, DC for more than 30 years.
Carla began her career in transportation at Landmark Services Tourmobile, Inc., a former locally owned and operated sightseeing company; she started as a revenue cashier and progressed to become president of the organization. During her tenure with Tourmobile, she served in many capacities within the operation to include dispatch, marketing, and maintenance oversight. Having to close the business after the passing of the owner, she managed per capita tours and commuter routes for a local division of a motor coach company. In 2015, she accepted the position of Associate Administrator for Fleet Operations at the DC Department of Public Works.
Her experience and passion for bus operations led her to DDOT, where she continues to advocate for transportation. She leads a team providing guidance and oversight for the DC Circulator, DC Streetcar, and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Coordination programs. Carla focuses on operations, budget, and contract management improvement. Born and raised in Washington, DC, she has a strong connection to transit operations in the region, which gives her great pride in managing transit operation programs and two administrative transit programs: School Transit Subsidy and coordination with WMATA to improve transit operations. She actively supports the District’s priority to increase transit ridership, reduce single occupancy vehicles, and improve safety for all transportation modes in the city.
Carla is currently pursuing her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Administration. She previously attended Howard University and earned both a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from Strayer University. She is also an alumna of the ENO Transit Senior Executive Program.

Luis MacDonaldTreasurer, GWRCCC | President, AutoFlex Fleet Inc

Luis D. MacDonald is President of AutoFlex Fleet, Inc. a GSA Schedule Federal Fleet contract holder for 25+ years. AutoFlex Fleet was incorporated in 1987, and is a Maryland DOT certified Minority and service-disabled Veteran owned small business. Mr.MacDonald is a charter member of the Federal Clean Cities Program and a charter member of the GWRCCC Board of Directors. Mr. MacDonald served as Chair of D.C. NAFA’s first fleet-industry seminars on implementing Alternative Fueled Vehicle Legislation during early 1990’s. Mr. MacDonald served as a Military Policeman at the end of the Vietnam-era and studied football and business administration at Colorado State University under the G.I. Bill.

Genevieve CullenPresident, Electric Drive Transportation Association

Genevieve Cullen joined EDTA in 2005 and serves as President of the cross-industry trade association promoting the electrification of transportation by leading EDTA’s policy and advocacy efforts for tax, research and development, infrastructure, and deployment of electric drive vehicles. Prior to joining EDTA, Genevieve provided energy policy counsel in the Executive and Legislative Branches, including serving as Energy Counsel to Senator Evan Bayh (D-IN) where she worked on diverse energy and industry issues, including climate change, air quality, transportation and federal energy efficiency policies, and utility regulation. She also previously worked at the Alliance to Save Energy, as a consultant to the Department of Energy, and in the office of then-Senator Joseph Biden (D-DE). A graduate of Washington College of Law and Bucknell University, Genevieve is a member of the District of Columbia bar.

Connor DolanDirector of External Affairs, Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association

Mr. Dolan is the Vice President of External Affairs for the Washington, DC based Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA).

Mr. Dolan has worked for FCHEA since 2010 building relationships and connections across the public and private sector to support the growth and development of the hydrogen and fuel cell industry. Mr. Dolan has successfully advocated for establishment of clean hydrogen infrastructure programs, development of hydrogen and fuel cell tax policies, and expansion of hydrogen and fuel cell research and development funding within the Department of Energy.

Mr. Dolan has significant experience in trade association management and subject matter expertise in the fuel cell and hydrogen industry and related policy developments. Prior to FCHEA, Mr. Dolan worked for the U.S. Fuel Cell Council and Methanol Institute.

Mr. Dolan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Christopher Newport University and an MPA and Nonprofit Management Certificate from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Denise Everson Thinkbox

R. Denise Everson directs human capital programs at ThinkBox, where she leads the Sustainable Communities Project as the Leader of Making and Keeping Friends. Denise uplifts under-resourced communities to further entrepreneurship, amplify STEAM education, create realistic jobs, and promote wellness.

Denise has worked in community redevelopment at the DC Housing Authority; consulted for Connecticut Green Bank and Institute of Market Transformation; and taught workforce development at the University of the District Columbia.

Denise was a Presidential Scholar and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Architecture from Hampton University, She earned a Masters of Public Policy from Georgetown University’s Public Policy Institute, now the McCourt School, with a focus on housing and education policy. Denise is a recipient of the National Architects Foundation Pettigrew Memorial Scholarship and an American Institute of Architect’s Associates Award, She is an inductee to Hampton University’s inaugural Forty Under 40 Society and Next City Forty Under 40 Vanguard. She severed the AIA nationally as a member of the Government Advocacy Committee and the Design and Health Leadership Group. She currently serves as the Treasurer of the National AIA Housing and Community Development Knowledge Community.

In addition to professional volunteerism, R. Denise donates time and talent to her local community and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Continental Societies, and the Junior League of Washington. She is founding boards secretary of the Minerva Vision Group and past board president of the historic Hillcrest Children & Family Center. A native of Decatur, Georgia. Denise lived in Washington , D.C for 15 years and currently resides in Maryland

Ezra FinkinSenior Manager, Chevron/Renewable Energy Group

Ezra Finkin serves as the senior manager for corporate affairs and development for Chevron/Renewable Energy Group where he works with a number of federal agencies. Prior to his time at REG, Ezra served as the policy director for the Diesel Technology Forum, representing diesel engine, vehicle and equipment manufacturers.

Timothy FitzgeraldFleet Administrator, DC Department of Public Works

I am currently the Fleet Administrator ~ Department of Public Works. As you will find I have acquired a vast amount of experience and has been in management for over 30 years. I have gained various levels of experience in management of Fleet Management Operations, Fleet Workforce Management, Vehicle Technologies, Water Operations, Vehicle Technical Specifications, Enterprise Network Operations, Telecommunications, Senior Management Consulting, Contract Management and Computer Operations. I have worked in various settings such as: DC Water, District of Columbia Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO), Harris County, Texas, City of Philadelphia and Atlanta, Georgia. I have managed Wireless Implementations, IV & V efforts, Fleet Forecasting, Contract Oversight (COTR) Planning and Infrastructure Architecture Baselines. I’ve carried a Top-secret clearance while being exposed to worldwide situations in Telecommunications at: US State Department and US Customs Service managing emerging technologies such as open architecture, while developing baseline infrastructures and technical approaches for all Posts and Consulates, Conus and OConus. I have lead team building efforts in Fleet and Technology Management developing strategic plans for client business rules and managing consultant engagements in Fleet Infrastructure, Technology, Operations, Telematics, Data Capture Management, KPI’s and Real-time reporting. I am a current (Member) of NAFA and Vice-Chair – Local Chapter of National Association of Fleet Administrators, (Member) – of 100best Fleets, (Executive Board Member) – Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC), Biodiesel (Ambassador) – National Bio-Diesel Board, United Soy Board – (Member), Chevin Fleet Solution- Customer Advisory Board (Member), Government Fleet Expo (GFX) – (Member) and Fleet Answers. I have an array of knowledge of congressional forums, special interest groups and direction of futuristic technologies. I have been endorsed by many of his colleagues from various organizations.

In 2014 and 2021, I received the Most Visionary Professional (MVP) award from the Clean Cities Coalition, in 2018 the Intelligent Utility Vehicle award from STEM – NASA. I am frequently asked to speak at Fleet Technology and Environmental events and conferences. I have written several white papers regarding Fleet Management and Fleet Technology. I have led the efforts to use Telematics in Washington DC and across the nation. We are now testing Solar Telematics and embedded open architecture with Ford and General Motors. We have a diverse apprenticeship program in partnership with DC Water Works and the District of Columbia, training young men and women in the dynamics of Fleet Management with many success stories. It is our hope to leave a strong legacy in growth strategies and a commitment to excellence in the environment and the future.
We are mandated to follow Federal and Local leadership in the alternative fuel and electrification of our Fleet. To date, our implementation far exceeds the mandates as we are well poised to receive federal credits and grants as we have in the past.

Some years ago, at DC Water the thought leaders of DC Water challenged its user departments to explore, devise and implement plans to utilize where smart to do so, more environmentally friendly products and innovative Technologies. This was a formidable challenge based on the number of products now in the market. The Department Fleet Management accepted the challenge and embarked upon the usage of several bio-based products with great success. Some of the products were BLOOM a bio-degradable nutrient rich soil product produced from our plant, Soy Scrub, EP Lube Grease, Adhesive remover, Hydraulic Fluid, and Envirologic 802 Grease. We have continued progress testing and are now in the throes of full usage of Bio-based oil through Biosynthetic Technologies using B20 and B100T in several of our units. To Date DC Water has not experienced any degradation throughout the process and the oil samples have shown increased longevity and stability over time while the equipment appears to be cleaner which is a definite plus for DC Water. The oil is bio-degradable and less harmless to the environment. As we have kept a close tab on the demonstration and the testing results on these products the level of diversity in products use has performed well in our environment. We are certainly elated with the facts thus far and look forward to the continued usage.

Looking forward to my next opportunity challenge and would like to work with in (DC DPW) our organization, which is committed to making a serious inroad in today’s market.

I am a native Washingtonian, Born and raised here in Washington, DC.

I have been afforded the opportunity to speak at the following conferences.

Conference Speaker: Brisbane, Australia – IPWEA Conference, Geotab Conference – Toronto, Canada, GWRCCC Conference Prince George’s County, Maryland, APWA Conference – Richmond, VA, NAFA Conference – Anaheim, California, Clean Cities Conference/Webinar – State of Indiana, Bio-Strategies Conference – US Department of Agriculture, Chevin Fleet Conference – Chicago, IL, NAFA Conference (Gold Standard of Fleet) – Atlanta, GA, GWRCC Conference – Rosslyn, VA, Chevin Fleet Conference – Atlanta, Georgia, Government Fleet Expo, Orlando, Fl

Daniel GagePresident, NGVAmerica

Dan Gage is President of NGVAmerica, a national organization of roughly 200 members dedicated to the development of a growing, profitable, and sustainable marketplace for on- and off-road fleets powered by clean natural gas and zero carbon biomethane and for promoting the transition to flexible low carbon vehicle technology solutions.

A proud Central New York native now based in Washington, DC, Dan holds almost thirty years of political, government, corporate, and trade association issue advocacy, communications and government relations experience.

Rick HilmerChief, Fleet Management Division of Prince George's County

Nearly forty years of experience in fleet management including twenty-seven years as a public fleet manager. Has long term experience with alternative fuels to include propane autogas and compressed natural gas. Has worked over the last seven years on implementing plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles with electric vehicle supply equipment. In addition to being a GWRCCC board member since 2008, is a member of the National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA) and has obtained certification as a Certified Automotive Fleet Manager through NAFA.

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Jeff King Director, Climate, Energy, and Air Program

Jeff King oversees a variety of initiatives to help COG members address climate change at the regional level, such as climate mitigation, energy efficiency, and emissions reduction. He also supports committees focused on air quality and climate and energy planning. Jeff has been with COG since 2004.

Stephen LaurineGeneral Manager, Washington Gas

Stephen R. Laurine is the Director of Facilities, Transportation and Real Estate with Washington Gas, a Subsidiary of AltaGas. Since starting with the company in 2001 Mr. Laurine oversees management of the Company’s 21 facilities and other real estate in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia, the company 1,200 plus vehicles, trailers and excavators, of which 30% are natural gas vehicles. Laurine holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland. In his off time, he enjoys spending time boating or working on classic cars.

Pedro LeytonGeneral Manager, Parts Authority Southern

Pedro Leyton is the General Manager of Parts Authority Southern LLC. Over the past ten years, he has guided the local Parts Authority footprint to 20 locations including locations in Baltimore, Richmond and Norfolk.

As the general Manager, his responsibilities include but are not limited to, daily operations, sales, growth strategies, distribution, government compliances and so much more. He started in the industry as a high school senior working at the local auto parts store. After graduating from the University of Maryland, he taught grade school for a few years while still working in the parts business. Eventually, his passion for the automotive business won out.

He is known to be a highly respected industry leader. His commitment to his team and to the community are well known. Throughout his career, he has served on several automotive boards, committees and organizations. He values diversity through education and is extremely grateful to his family, teams and industry.

Korey Neal President | CEO, K. Neal International Trucks

Korey Neal is the proud owner of K. Neal Truck and Bus Center (knealtbc.com), a full-service commercial dealership servicing the greater Washington, DC Metropolitan area in four locations. K. Neal Truck and Bus Center is ranked #35 in the top 100 largest minority-owned businesses in the nation by Black Enterprise (2019) and continues to support the trucks, buses and people who move the world. Korey Neal is a 2020 Washington Business Journal 40 Under 40, Eastern Michigan and American University graduate, active board member for educational, philanthropic, and financial organizations, community builder and visionary Millennial business leader in the transportation industry.

John O'DonnellPresident | CEO, WANADA

As president of the Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association, John O’Donnell is the chief executive officer of the organization that represents 275 members of franchised new car dealers in the greater Washington, D.C., area.  In a related capacity, Mr. O’Donnell is also producer of The Washington DC Auto Show.

O’Donnell directs all of WANADA’s functions including promoting the automobile business in the Washington area; representing dealers in the public policy process; representing the dealer group in the media; and leading all other activities of the organization, including various services provided to members.  The Washington Auto Show is one of the foremost international events and is regarded as the “Public Policy Show.”  The Washington Auto Show is certified by the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) and was host to President Obama who toured the show in 2012, followed by Vice President Biden in 2013.

In career education, O’Donnell and WANADA have long been engaged in establishing and promoting motor vehicle technician training, Under the auspices of the Automobile Dealer Education Institute (ADEI), which was founded to oversee all WANADA’s career programming, ADEI technician training has become ASE Accredited by the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence in recognition of its success in recruiting young adults into the field through dealership service departments.

John P. O’Donnell joined WANADA in 2001 as Vice President of employee benefits operations.   After successfully reorganizing WANADA’s Group Insurance programming, he was promoted to executive vice president in 2006.  O’Donnell was responsible for managing all aspects of the association’s insurance brokerage, managing the Washington Auto Show, overseeing the association’s staff on a day to day basis and engaging in lobbying at the state and local government level.

Tucker PerkinsPresident | CEO, PERC

Tucker Perkins is the president and CEO of the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), a Washington D.C.-based non-profit which invests in the research and development of propane-powered innovation, and promotes the safe, efficient use of propane through safety training and education programs.

Perkins joined PERC in 2015 as Chief Business Development Officer and was promoted to Chief Operating Officer before the Council named him President and CEO in 2018.

A Virginia Tech graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Perkins earned his MBA from the University of Richmond. He is active with many industry organizations including the National Propane Gas Association, the Industrial Truck Association, the Outdoor Power institute, and the World LP Gas Association.

Perkins is a dynamic and relatable leader who has amplified propane’s voice in the national energy conversation as a frequent keynote speaker on energy-related topics.

Tucker is also host of the podcast, Path to Zero, in which he engages energy thought leaders in provocative discussions regarding energy and the environment and the path to zero carbon emissions.

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Sheryl Ponds CEO, DaiTech Corp

” Your Electric Vehicle Adoption Expert” has extensive project management, negotiations and transactional experience in various industries including corporate banking, manufacturing and commercial real estate. She has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Tennessee, an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management , and is also certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

Sheryl launched DaiTechCorp inspired by her personal desire to own an EV and working through her experience to overcome Range Anxiety. Stymied by the physical limitations to energize her vehicle at home and at work, she sensed that there are many individuals like her, living in urban markets, who require more accessibility to EVCE’s – in place where they live, work and play. Concluding there were no friction-less market solutions available, Sheryl began creating her own and courageously catapulted into the new era of electrified transportation.

Sheryl a native Washingtonian is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Shes is also a former leadership New York City Fellow and has received numerous recognition’s for contributions towards economic development in Brooklyn, NY. During her tenure with the District of Columbia Government , she gained in=depth knowledge about public-owned fleets. In  her role as a portfolio manager , Sheryl helmed real estate acquisitions for OSSE’s school bus fleet expansion and DDOR’s Circulator Bus electrified assets. Sheryl was also honored by CREW, AAREP and the former Districit of Columbia Mayor Gray for her innovations in public space usage and tenant improvements

Frank WolakPresident | CEO, 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 seventy 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.