2024-25 Cohort

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  Mons Ole Sellevold

  Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway

  Bio

  About Mons Ole Sellevold

  I am working as a project manager in the state-owned energy company Store Norske Energi AS in Longyearbyen, Svalbard. I work with different off-grid hybrid renewable energy projects, of which I want to highlight our energy transition pilot-project at Isfjord Radio, where we in 2023 built the world's northernmost ground mounter PV park.

  I obtained my Master of Engineering degree in Energy Technology from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in 2013 and have been working in the renewable energy industry since. Moving from southern mainland Norway to the High Arctic archipelago Svalbard in 2021 had for a long time been a dream for me. And to be able to contribute to the critical energy transition in the Arctic adds on to that.

  I look forward to connect with other arctic colleagues who are working on similar challenges, and to see and learn from other energy projects in the Arctic. I believe that cooperation and knowledge-sharing across the arctic communities is crucial to succeed with a just energy transition. Being able to learn from other's mistakes and successes is important to prevent everyone reinventing the wheel over again on their own.

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mons-ole-sellevold-137a886b/

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  Regina Foley

  St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

  Bio

  About Regina Foley

  As a Senior Energy Advisor at NunatuKavut Community Council, Regina Foley collaborates with the Indigenous government and its members to devise and enact energy solutions that are sustainable, affordable, and culturally aligned. Serving the communities of South and Central Labrador, Regina is dedicated to advancing their energy independence and resilience. Holding a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland, Regina brings over ten years of experience in the energy sector, having undertaken diverse roles spanning regulatory policy, compliance, analysis, and conservation.

  Possessing robust skills in communication, regulatory analysis, and stakeholder engagement, Regina is fervently committed to bolstering Indigenous self-determination and environmental stewardship. Her objective centers on enhancing the social and economic development of NunatuKavut and its inhabitants via innovative and cooperative energy ventures.

  Regina is particularly excited about being part of the 2024 ARENA Cohort, which represents a unique opportunity to connect with fellow energy leaders and access cutting-edge research and resources. The Alaska Remote Energy Networks Academy (ARENA) program emphasizes collaboration and knowledge-sharing among communities facing similar energy challenges, which aligns perfectly with Regina's goals for NunatuKavut. She looks forward to leveraging the insights and partnerships gained through ARENA to drive forward sustainable energy projects that can serve as models for other Indigenous and remote communities. Regina's participation in the cohort underscores her commitment to innovative solutions and her passion for fostering resilient, self-sufficient communities through sustainable energy practices.

  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/regina-foley-20397956

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  Marie Francis

  Anchorage, Alaska, U.S.

  Bio

  About Marie Francis

  Marie Francis is a lifelong Alaskan, hailing from Wasilla. She attended the University of Alaska Anchorage where she received her bachelor's degree in mathematics, as well as a sustainable energy occupational endorsement certificate from University of Alaska Fairbanks.
  
  She has nearly a decade of experience working for Tribes and Tribal nonprofits in southcentral Alaska. Marie worked at Ya Ne Dah Ah School as a teacher's aide, where she taught mathematics and cultural science, a K-12 curriculum centered around the traditional ecological knowledge of the Dene peoples of Alaska and Canada.
  
  Previously, Marie was the solar program manager for Tebughna Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that serves the Tribal community of Tyonek, on the traditional territory of the Dena'ina Athabascan people. Tebughna Foundation’s solar program was founded to accomplish the renewable energy goals of the Native Village of Tyonek 10-Year Strategic Plan.

  Currently, Marie works as the recycling project lead for Cook Inlet Tribal Council. She is passionate about environmental justice, recycling, and renewable energy. I look forward to participating in the ARENA cohort and learning more about successful remote microgrids throughout the Arctic and how they can support sustainability and Tribal energy sovereignty.

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-francis-816721279/

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  Janelle Flett

  Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada

  Bio

  About Janelle Flett

  Janelle Flett (She/her) is a Dene and Gwich'in woman who is the Resource Development Advisor for the Dene Land and Resource Management for the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN). She oversees the consultation files in the territory and the development of projects related to Carbon Capture and Nuclear energy. She holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science from Mount Royal University and is active in climate Justice spaces to advocate for Indigenous youth.

  Janelle has experience implementing community energy plans in remote Indigenous communities and is particularly knowledge in home energy efficiency and solar PV battery systems. Janelle is currently a member of the NRCan Youth Council and sits on other Indigenous youth councils in Treaty 8.

  Her vision for ARENA is to learn applicable knowledge to apply to her community as we navigate this energy transition in hopes of saving Mother Earth through building kinship.

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  Jess Puddister

  St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

  Bio

  About Jess Puddister

  Jess Puddister has been working in the climate action space for six years, focused on Inuit- and community-led renewable energy projects in Nunavut since 2022. In her role as Strategy and Engagement Manager with Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation, Nunavut's first 100% Inuit-owned renewable energy developer, she has led Rightsholder and stakeholder engagement with the communities of Sanirajak, Kinngait, Qausuittuq, Sanirajak, and Iqaluit, backboned on energy literacy and free, prior, informed consent.

  Jess is also involved with energy purchase agreement negotiations, political advocacy, and energy policy analysis. She loves the art of effective communication in bridging the technical, social, and environmental aspects of the clean energy transition, ultimately enabling participation and progress.

  Jess is particularly excited to learn from community energy champions participating in ARENA from other jurisdictions on how they have navigated barriers, regulatory change, and partnerships that enable success.

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-puddister-61923b4b/

   

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  Blaine Chislett

  Rankin Inlet Nunavut, Canada

  Bio

  About Blaine Chislett

  My name is Blaine Chislett, and I proudly hail from the Inuk community of Rankin Inlet in Nunavut. Over the past five years, I have been passionately dedicated to advancing renewable energy initiatives in remote communities. Today, I am excited to embark on a new chapter in my journey, as I step into the role of Manager of Energy & Sustainability at Sakku Investments Corporation, where I can direct my energies towards the renewable push, fortified by the backing and support of Sakku Investments Corporation. I am honored to extend my gratitude for this remarkable opportunity. Your Support in my vision and dedication is both inspiring and motivating.

  I am here to make a significant impact, and I'm excited to be part of the team leading the charge in the renewable energy sector. I also wish to offer my expertise and insights on the ongoing energy portfolios I have been diligently working on. It is crucial for us to align our efforts with your vision for the future. Your guidance and perspective are invaluable to me.

  My journey has seen several milestones that have shaped my expertise and commitment to renewable energy. I am a proud alumnus of the 20/20 Catalyst Program, which provided me with valuable insights into sustainable energy solutions. In 2022, I had the privilege of representing indigenous voices at the COP 27 conference in Egypt as one of the three indigenous trailblazers in renewable energy. This experience broadened my horizons and deepened my resolve to drive positive change. Furthermore, I am honored to have been chosen as a recipient of the first cohort of the Indigenous Off Diesel Initiative (IODI) program by the federal government of Canada. This initiative is pivotal in our efforts to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and embrace greener alternatives.

  At present, I am actively engaged in my role with Sakku Investments corporation and with our JV company Kivalliq Alternative Energy, where I am spearheading multiple groundbreaking projects:

  • A 1.4MW solar array and 1MW battery storage installation in Coral Harbour, as part of the IODI program.
  • A similar 1.4 MW solar array and 1MW battery storage project in Naujaat, again under the IODI umbrella.
  • Conducting SODAR wind studies in Chesterfield Inlet, with a focus on sustainable energy solutions.
  • Exploring net-zero energy studies in Chesterfield Inlet to pave the way for a more sustainable future.
  • Collaborating on MET tower studies in Rankin Inlet, which have laid the foundation for a promising development of three wind turbines and battery storage.
  • Initiating SODAR studies in Baker Lake, a vital step towards the installation of a 1MW turbine and battery storage.
  • Presently, I am also actively involved in several proposals for rooftop solar projects in Rankin Inlet, targeting three different SPL buildings.
  • In addition, I am working closely with ED&T to conceptualize solar solutions for upcoming community freezers.
  • I have initiated discussions with AEM to explore the transformation of the gatehouse into a green facility, incorporating mini wind turbines, solar panels, and a heat pump. Moreover, I aim to introduce innovative heat combustion methods such as biomass heat creation via wood pellets or green solid fuels/hexamine fuel.

  I eagerly anticipate feedback on these projects and the direction you envision for our shared future. Together, we can continue to pioneer renewable energy solutions that will not only benefit remote communities but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable world. Thank you for this incredible opportunity, and I look forward to collaborating and making a difference.

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  Grace Nakimayak

  Paulatuk, Northwest Territories, Canada

  Bio

  About Grace Nakimayak

  Grace Nakimayak is the clean energy coordinator for the Paulatuk Energy Working Group. She started in this role in October 2021 to carry out the clean energy ambitions of the Paulatuk Energy Working Group, which includes all key community leaders from all local organizations.

  Grace is a proud Inuvialuit woman, born in Yellowknife and grew up living in various places across country. She moved back home to Paulatuk years back, which is a fly-in-only community on the coast of the Arctic Ocean.

  Grace is passionate about helping her community reduce their cost of living as well as improve the quality of life, developing economic opportunities and implementing initiatives to reduce fossil fuel consumption. In her free time, she loves getting out on the land, hunting, camping, and fishing.

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-nakimayak-413900206/

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  Roderick Phillip

  Kongiganak, Alaska, U.S.

  Bio

  About Roderick Phillip

  Roderick Phillip is the manager for Puvurnaq Power Company in Kongiganak, Alaska since 2016. He is a tribal member of the Native Village of Kongiganak and Central Yup'ik is his first language. He has been working for Puvurnaq Power Company since 2009. Puvurnaq has a hybrid wind/diesel power system which has been in operation since the end of 2012.

  Roderick has successfully operated and maintained the advanced microgrid system which is currently displacing fuel at 40%. He is currently working on adding a community scale solar farm which should get him closer to 100% renewables. He has successfully trained local tribal members to operate and maintain the hybrid microgrid power system. Currently Puvurnaq has 5 95kw wind turbines, lithium batteries, electric thermal stoves, electric boiler, and 4 diesel generators to power the village of Kongiganak. He is adding a 200kw solar farm this fall and an additional 150kw solar farm in the following year.

  Roderick recognizes how important it is to convert the power systems to renewable energy and depend less on fossil fuels. He has seen how the climate has changed over the years and how it is affecting his community, environment, and ecosystem. He is looking forward to seeing what other people in the ARENA cohort are doing and share his knowledge in the microgrid renewable power systems.

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roderick-phillip-114b8576/

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  Amanda Garvey

  Palmer, Alaska, U.S.

  Bio

  About Amanda Garvey

  Amanda Garvey is the Operations Manager for Sunstone Electric in Palmer, Alaska. Sunstone Electric is an Alaska Native owned company providing industrial, commercial, and residential services to communities all over the state. This has included several of the largest utility sized solar installations in Alaska, and work on several commercial ones, including Kotzebue’s solar expansion and Noatak’s utility solar integration. One of Sunstone’s core mandates is to invest in local capacity and share knowledge to build a more sustainable workforce. To this end, Amanda works as term Adjunct Faculty through the University of Alaska Fairbanks to teach courses in solar photovoltaics, and has taught in Dillingham and Kotzebue to a range of audiences.

  Amanda graduated with a Mechanical Engineering degree and is a certified Energy Manager (CEM). She dedicates much of her time evaluating and developing projects to improve energy efficiency for facilities and communities around Alaska. Through ARENA, Amanda hopes to gain more insight into sustainable workforce models, best practices for renewables in Arctic environments, and public-private partnerships to help foster innovation.

  When she’s not working on energy or electrical projects, Amanda holds a position with the Anchorage Community Land Trust to help foster and support new businesses.

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  Rena Squirrel

  Tetlit Zheh (Fort McPherson), Northwest Territories, Canada

  Bio

  About Rena Squirrel

  Rena Squirrel is Tetlit Gwich'in and Liidii Kue Dene from Tetlit Zheh (Fort McPherson. NT), but currently resides in Katlodeeche (Hay River, NT) with her family. Rena was born and raised in Denendeh (Northwest Territories) and is passionate about empowering northern communities by building businesses and creating jobs for northerners.

  Rena has degrees in Secondary Education and Native Studies from the University of Alberta, and is currently pursuing a Masters in Sustainability with a major in Energy Security at the University of Saskatchewan. Rena is an entrepreneur at heart and is the owner of AF Solutions Inc. which is a residential and commercial construction company located in Katlodeeche (Hay River, NT). AF Solutions Inc. is an Indigenous owned business and committed to respecting Indigenous values of ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations. To fulfill this value, AF Solutions Inc. is offering their clients the option to install renewable energy systems into the renovation or home build.

  In 2020/2021 Rena worked for the Gwich'in Council International as the Energy Project Coordinator, while in this position she researched energy initiatives in the Gwich'in communities in Alaska and Canada. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in sustainability/energy security because she believes that implementing renewable energy technology in our northern communities is a viable solution to strengthen energy security, enhance the local economy, and reduce the carbon emissions. Rena is excited to be apart of the ARENA program because she believes this is a great opportunity to learn from other participants experience in implementing renewable energy technology and strengthen her network in the renewable energy industry.

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rena-squirrel-214b69112/

   

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  Chad Nordlum

  Kotzebue, Alaska, U.S.

  Bio

  About Chad Nordlum

  Chad Nordlum is the Energy Project Manager for the Native Village of Kotzebue in Northwest Alaska. In this role, he focuses on developing Tribally owned solar and wind energy projects, aiming to demonstrate how energy independence can lead to significant economic benefits for Arctic communities.

  Previously, Chad served as the Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Kotzebue and as the Resident Life Coordinator for the Northwest Arctic Borough School District. His early career included roles in the mining industry and he a former dog musher having completed the 1,000 mile Yukon Quest and other mid-distance races throughout Alaska. Chad’s diverse professional background and dedication to sustainable energy underscore his commitment to the well-being and advancement of his community and the Arctic.

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadnordlum

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  Alex Cook

  Baker Lake, Nunavut, Canada

  Bio

  About Alex Cook

  Alex Cook is an Inuk from Baker Lake, Nunavut, Canada. He is the President of ArchTech, a 100% Inuit-owned developer specializing in affordable, efficient, and resilient net-zero buildings for remote Arctic communities. He graduated from Saint Francis Xavier University, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and Leadership.

  Alex has over 15 years of experience in the remote northern energy and construction sectors. He is an Energy Champion in Natural Resources Canada's Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative, a Catalyst with Indigenous Clean Energy, and was appointed to lead his community's clean energy journey. He also serves on several national and territorial-appointed energy boards. Alex is passionate about empowering rural and remote Indigenous communities to develop and benefit from the direct ownership of their clean energy infrastructure.

  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alex-cook-71b32740

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  Amber Polson

  Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

  Bio

  About Amber Polson

  Amber Polson is from Enderby, British Columbia and has lived in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada for over 15 years. She started working with the Yukon University Research Centre team in 2017 and joined the Northern Energy Innovation (NEI) research team as a project manager in 2021. She is privileged to support researchers, communities, and utility partners working collectively to overcome the unique energy challenges facing communities across Canada’s north. Additionally, Amber is pursuing a Master's degree in Sustainability with a specialization in Energy Security and looks forward to completing her studies in Summer 2024.

  Amber eagerly anticipates participating in the ARENA 2024 cohort and is excited to glean insights, strategies, and innovative thinking through site visits and interactions with fellow cohort members. She aims to leverage this experience to enrich her support of community projects. Amber is especially eager for hands-on learning opportunities and collaborative knowledge sharing and hopes to cultivate additional skills in knowledge mobilization and energy literacy.

  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amber-polson-6bb270313

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  Eugene Putugu

  Puvirnituq, Quebec, Canada

  Bio

  About Eugene Putugu

  My name is Eugene Putugu, born and raised in Puvirnituq Quebec, currently working for Kativik Regional Government, Transportation department, also as a Community Energy Champion by Tarquti, representing Puvirnituq, where I live. I hope to gain more experience by attending the ARENA program so that I'll be fully equipped with knowledge that requires as a Community Energy Champion. Looking forward to attending the ARENA program.

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  Shauntai Shroyer

  Kotzebue, Alaska, U.S.

  Bio

  About Shauntai Shroyer

  Shauntai Shroyer was born and raised in Kotzebue, Alaska, where she developed a deep-rooted connection to her community and a passion for sustainable energy solutions. Growing up, she was influenced by her father, who served as the general manager of Kotzebue Electric, sparking her interest in the local power system from an early age.

  Currently, Shauntai is making a significant impact as the Renewable Energy Performance Optimization Program (REPOP) coordinator for the Northwest Arctic Borough. In this role, she spearheads the REPOP, overseeing initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of renewable energy projects across the surrounding villages. Her dedication to integrating renewable energy solutions aligns with her participation in the ARENA program, where she continues to expand her knowledge and expertise in sustainable energy practices tailored for the unique challenges of Alaska's far North.

  Shauntai Shroyer is committed to leveraging her skills and experience to drive positive change in her community, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future for generations to come.

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  Delores Gregory

  Kodiak, Alaska, U.S.

  Bio

  About Delores Gregory

  Delores Gregory is originally from Unalaska, Alaska and is the daughter of Okalena Patricia Lekanoff-Gregory of Unalaska and David Gregory of Unalaska. Currently she resides in Kodiak Alaska with her husband, young son, dog, and cat. She has also lived in Fairbanks, Alaska while she attended the University of Alaska Fairbanks to obtain her bachelor's degree in Rural Development (2016), and in Anchorage, Alaska while she attended Alaska Pacific University to get her Masters in Business Administration (2020).

  Delores recently started working for the Kodiak Area Native Association as the Economic Development Recompete Plan Coordinator, and she also does light bookkeeping work for the Aleut International Association. Previously, Delores worked for the Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association, both in Unalaska as a Behavioral Health Aid and in Anchorage as the Health Promotions and Wellness Events Coordinator, and has worked remotely for the University of Alaska Fairbanks as the Small Grants Coordinator for the last two years after the birth of her son.

  Growing up on an island in the Aleutians has instilled a curiosity into Delores that has driven her to seek out knowledge and education in different ways to keep rural Alaskan communities viable; energy work, especially affordable or renewable options are especially of interest to Delores. One of the goals that Delores has is to find ways to give back to the communities that she has lived in because they have provided her with so much over the years.

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  Tashonia Martin

  Galena, Alaska

  Bio

  About Tashonia Martin

  Tashonia Martin is originally from Phoenix, Arizona but has been living in Galena, Alaska for the past four years. She was raised in Crownpoint, New Mexico which is located on the eastern edge of the Navajo Reservation in Northwest New Mexico. She is half Diné (Navajo) and half Koyukon (Athabascan).

  She is stepping into the energy world working at Sustainable Energy for Galena Alaska (SEGA), as the administrative assistant; she also coordinates the Community Energy Planning group within Galena. Her occupation beforehand was working at the local, Sidney Huntington School in the Special Education Department as an Aide. SEGA is a nonprofit company coordinating with the School, City, and Louden Tribe of Galena.

  Tashonia is looking forward to learning how to greater increase resiliency and security within her community. She hopes to gain more experience and expand her knowledge by being a part of the ARENA program.

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  Kolt Garvey

  Palmer, Alaska

  Bio

  About Kolt Garvey

  Kolt Garvey is co-owner, electrical administrator, and lead electrician for Sunstone Electric LLC. 

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