Gary Simon, Chairman

A seasoned energy executive and entrepreneur with 45 years of experience in business, government, and non-profits.

Mark Henwood, Board Member

CEO of Henwood Associates, Inc., an owner and operator of hydroelectric facilities in California.  Mark also leads Powersoft, LLC, a SaaS provider and was a co-founder of CleanStart with Gary Simon.

Benjamin Finkelor, Board Member

Kiara Reed, Board Memeber

Kiara Reed is a digital media professional and community advocate based in Sacramento. In her current role with Comstock’s Magazine, a local award-winning business publication, Reed oversees the marketing efforts, digital management and community engagement. In addition to serving the Clean Start board Reed is also an executive board member of the Oak Park based nonprofit, Green Tech Education and Employment and volunteers her spare time to other Oak Park community organizations, including Oak Park Neighborhood Association and Oak Park Promise Neighborhood.

Brian Hoblit, Board Member

Brian is a Business Development Officer for U.S. Banks’ commercial lending division and is passionate about helping companies in Sacramento and the broader Central Valley region grow through debt and other financial services. Brian’s educational background includes advanced degrees in environmental engineering and business he has held a variety of roles in banking, finance, clean technology and water resources.

Dan Koellen, Board Member

Dan Koellen is a veteran of more than 25 years in the high technology and semiconductor industries.  Dan has mentored and invested in several Sacramento area startup companies including two companies that have gone public.  He is a board member of several Sacramento non-profits in technology, community support, economic development and world class botanical gardens.  Recognizing his commitment to excellence in STEM; Dan is the development chair for the Astronomy Department Board of Visitors and adviser to the Applied Math, Engineering and Physics program, both at the University of Wisconsin.

Thomas Hall, Executive Director

Thomas has a strong background in supporting small businesses, leadership, financial management and is proficient in working with nonprofits. Thomas holds a BS in Finance and BA in Economics and has a passion for sustainability and a commitment to supporting non-profits in the region.

Renonedo Williams, Intern

Renonedo is a current Sacramento State university student in his senior year, studying Mechanical Engineering.  His interest in renewable energy and a clean environment has allowed him to become a member of the CleanStart team as an intern. Renonedo has a back ground in design and material selection along with motor efficiency.