Who We Are

Co-Executive Director

Katie works alongside Wilson and the LEAP team to bring energy efficiency and renewable energy to residents across Virginia. Before coming to LEAP, Katie served as Executive Director at the Charlottesville Renewable Energy Alliance. She spent over 20 years in the nonprofit sector, including roles at The Ad Council, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, and Change.org. Katie graduated from NYU with a Masters in Public Administration and a Bachelors in Marketing and Management. She can often be found cheering for the Yankees, playing tennis, or hanging out with her son, Freddy.

Co-Executive Director

Wilson joined LEAP in 2015 and has over a decade of experience in residential energy efficiency and Building Science. Throughout his career, he has performed hundreds of energy audits and helped myriad clients design and execute plans for improved energy performance and comfort in their homes. As Co-Executive Director, Wilson uses this hands-on experience to fully leverage LEAP’s participation in local, state, and utility-lead efficiency and outreach programs. He leads the operational and production teams to ensure the successful execution of various programs and initiatives. Wilson is a licensed Energy Analyst with the State of Virginia, a Class A contractor, and holds certifications issued by the Building Performance Institute. He received his degrees in Building Science, Construction Management, and Sustainable Development from Appalachian State University.

Operations Manager

Chris Mernin has worked over a decade in non-profit work, bringing a wealth of experience to his role as Operations Manager at Local Energy Alliance Program Inc. Chris was born and raised in Virginia and although his career has taken him to five different states, he is glad to be settled in Crozet, Virginia with his family. Chris thrives in the dynamic environment of his job, where he tackles high-level responsibilities with passion and dedication. Outside of work, he finds solace and joy in hiking and bird watching immersing himself in the natural beauty of the region.

Program Director

Originally from central Virginia, Ross Wood graduated from Randolph-Macon College with a degree in Communication Studies. Early in life, he recognized my passion for helping others; it was this realization that drove his search for a career aligned with that purpose. Ross' journey into energy efficiency began with internships at LEAP and C3, where he received hands-on experience and fell in love with the work. As a Home Energy Analyst,  Ross dove into assessing homes and finding ways to make them more efficient.  As LEAP's Program Manager, Ross aims to ensure that all programs effectively serve our community. This involves optimizing energy efficiency improvements for each household by blending existing programs, seamlessly incorporating new initiatives, educating households about available rebates, and staying informed about additional avenues for community assistance. Alongside managing day-to-day operations, Ross seeks to simplify access to energy-efficiency resources for everyone in our community.

Director of Outreach & Communications

A Pennsylvania native, Jala Tyler is a proud graduate of James Madison University. After earning a degree in Biology and Environmental Science, she sought to apply her knowledge in a way that she felt could positively impact the lives of others. Jala moved into the nonprofit sector in 2021 to support initiatives that can better the environment, combat climate change, and uplift local communities. She is proud to be the Marketing and Outreach Manager for LEAP, as she knows that LEAP lies at the heart and intersection of environmentalism and community development. Through LEAP, she hopes to help community members from all walks of life feel comfortable in their home and environment. When not working on her environmental passions, Jala enjoys singing, snuggling with her puppy Ginger, playing Magic the Gathering, and annoying her three cats.

Program Manager

Dan graduated from James Madison University in 2010, where he double-concentrated in Energy and Environment within the Integrated Science and Technology program (ISAT). After working a couple of unrelated jobs in both Washington DC and Charlottesville, and taking some time to travel internationally, he joined the LEAP team in the Summer of 2020 as a Home Energy Analyst. He enjoys the problem solving aspects of his position, as well as being a part of an organization-wide mission that promotes energy efficiency for all members of the community.n goes here

Program Manager

Anthony joined LEAP's team in 2020 after graduating from UVA with a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science and Global Sustainability.  Originally from Harrisonburg, Virginia, he previously worked for the U.S. Forest Service, Virginia Clean Cities, and the Shenandoah Valley Soil & Water Conservation District.  He received his Building Analyst certification from the Building Performance Institute in 2021.  At LEAP, Anthony serves as a Home Energy Analyst, conducting energy audits on houses and crafting reports.  He also manages projects for Dominion Energy's weatherization programs.  When he's not helping people save energy, Anthony enjoys being outdoors, making homemade kombucha, and cheering on the Cavaliers.

Solar Program Manager

Deborah Arenstein is a Charlottesville resident of over two decades and LEAP's determined Solar Program Manager. In her day to day, Deborah provides back end administrative support for both Solarize Virginia and the Dominion Income and Age (IAQ) solar program. She works directly with customers and installers, often serving as the point person for questions from both. Prior to LEAP, Deborah's professional experience was primarily nonprofit fundraising, and consulting, as well as providing support for strategic planning and organizational development. Deborah is a trained actor, and in her free time she enjoys performing improv throughout Charlottesville, spending time with her adult children, and spoiling her Irish Doodle, Libby.

Energy Navigator

Rosina grew up in New York City singing opera and getting involved in creation care initiatives at her neighborhood Methodist church. She pursued her interest in faith-based environmental and climate activism at Wesley Theological Seminary, where she wrote her thesis on theology and biomimicry, and then at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, where she helped install a community garden and arrange a LEAP energy audit! Following her time at Wesley, Rosina worked for Virginia Interfaith Power and Light as the organization's Director of Communications, and now is very happy to join LEAP's Energy Resource Hub as the Energy Navigator.

Rosina loves living in Charlottesville, where she has also been able to pursue her passion for music performance singing with the Charlottesville Opera. She spends much of her time with her daughters, and tries to be in nature and write as much as she can.

Client Services Coordinator

Ned has more than 15 years of experience in natural resource management and energy program evaluation. As LEAP’s Client Services Coordinator, he acts as the primary point of contact for LEAP to answer questions and assist with the intake process, requiring a working knowledge of LEAP’s protocols, activities, and energy efficiency and solar programs. Ned also coordinates internally with all departments and uses LEAP’s online client management tool for expense tracking, income verification, proposal creation, appointment scheduling, and follow ups. Ned has an M.P.A. in Energy and Environmental Policy from Portland State University and a B.A. in Environmental Studies from the University of Vermont. In his downtime, he enjoys being outside. Ned loves standup paddleboarding and exploring the beautiful countryside around Charlottesville by bike and on foot.

Production & Logistics Manager

Originally from Alexandria, Virginia, Jamal Freeman has a minor in small business and a major in international business with over sixteen years of managerial experience. Jamal would bring his expertise to the LEAP team after he recognized the drive behind LEAP’s mission. In his day to day, Jamal oversees production and inventory. The best aspect of his role is his ability to not only help home and business owners grow, but the LEAP team itself. When he is off work, Jamal enjoys fishing, kayaking, and playing pool.

Crew Manager

James Thomas has always been a team player who loves helping others. While growing up in Charlottesville, he constantly saw the need for community support in his hometown. James joined the LEAP team for this very reason. In his day-to-day responsibilities, James organizes crew responsibilities, maintains inventory, and works side by side with the LEAP crew. He enjoys giving back to the community and his team and is always willing to lend a helping hand. When James isn’t being a champion team player on duty, he continues to be one in his off time. He spends his time engaging with his kids and spending quality time with his friends.

Energy Analyst

Rachel Lee studied at Randolph College in Lynchburg, VA as an Environmental Studies major with minors in Biology and Psychology. There are a wide variety of jobs she worked before moving to Charlottesville; she has experience as a dog trainer, a retail assistant, and a trail crew member, to name a few. Rachel first moved to Charlottesville when she was offered a job as an environmental consultant. It was there that she conducted environmental site assessments throughout Charlottesville, Waynesboro, and other surrounding communities. Overall, she gained experience with animal psychology, physical trail labor, resilience assessments, species identification, data collection, and now energy auditing. Rachel has been working with LEAP since 2023, and has grown very fond of our mission to help others understand their homes' energy efficiency. Every building is like a new puzzle to solve for her, and being able to teach people how to reduce their energy consumption is the most rewarding career she's ever had!

Energy Analyst

Abraham Kay was born and raised in Miami, Florida. He studied Computer Information Systems at the University of West Florida in Pensacola before making a move north to Mineral, Virginia. While there, he would take on a variety of roles for the Southern Exposure Seed Exchange including Database Administrator, IT Manager, Vehicle Fleet Maintenance Manager, and more.

Abraham joined the LEAP team because he believes in LEAP's mission. To him, LEAP creates multiple win-win scenarios; the clients win lower energy bills and increased comfort at little or no cost to them, and the environment wins lower emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants. Abraham enjoys helping the ones who need it most to lower their energy bills at little or no cost to them, and is passionate about fighting climate change. In his free time, Abraham enjoys playing video games, cooking, playing with his three cats, and playing Dungeons and Dragons.

Energy Analyst

Andrew Robinson is one of LEAP's Energy Analysts. Originally from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada (or "The Soo") Andrew moved to Charlottesville to work for the Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNE). While working as a freelancer for 2 years, Andrew knew LEAP to be a trusted mission in the community for him to devote his full time to. Once he found out he got a tool box, he was sold.

Andrew loves getting to know the quirks of each house he visits, because each one is an adventure. Whether he is crawling around in the attic or searching through the basement and crawlspace, Andrew enjoys the challenge. Unearthing hidden problems for the homeowner means he's helping to make folks homes safer, healthier, and more comfortable. And for him, that's the cherry on top of a fulfilling role. In his free time Andrew enjoys practicing traditional Chinese Kung fu at Laughing Dragon Kung Fu and playing electric bass. He also enjoys seeing his daughter perform in local musical theatre productions.

Energy Analyst

Jessie Gammon grew up in Southern Maryland. After graduating university, she has a plethora of experience with hands-on work. She has worked on a farm, built homes for Habitat for Humanity, and worked on HVAC systems with the University of Virginia. Since building her first shed some years ago, Jessie has been fascinated by buildings; how they’re put together, how they function, and how to maintain them. For Jessie, LEAP is the perfect place to learn more about building science. Every day, she exposes herself to different home types, structures, and challenges. She also loves working for nonprofits and interacting with her local community. In her free time, Jessie enjoys gardening and spending time with her loved ones. 

Warehouse Manager

Dale is the Warehouse Manager for LEAP. Originally from Stanardsville, Virginia, Dale’s day-to-day involves managing inventory, vehicle maintenance, training new recruits, and leading the LEAP crew in the field. Prior to joining LEAP, Dale had over sixteen years of chef and cooking experience. While he had a passion for cooking, he couldn’t deny that he wanted to have a role and position that made a larger difference in the lives of the people around him. As such, Dale joined the LEAP team to help his community members feel more safe and comfortable in their homes. In his free time, Dale enjoys playing guitar and honing his construction skills.

Retrofit Technician

Lamont has always been a dedicated hard worker. If one were to ask Lamont why he joined the LEAP team, he would say it's because he loves the challenge. With LEAP, Lamont is able to feel and see the direct impact that his hard work leads to. In his free time, Lamont enjoys being with his friends and family.

Retrofit Technician

After graduating from Charlottesville High School, Lamonte Adams sought a job position that resonated with him while supporting his family. LEAP was the perfect opportunity for Lamonte to earn an income, help his community, and find his purpose. When Lamonte isn’t working he enjoys playing video games and spending time with his beautiful wife and children.