We connected with Andre for our next installment of the #LifeAtenergyware series, where we learn all about our visionaries of energy efficiency.

Tell us about your past work (to the extent you can) & also your military service (to the extent you can of course)

My past work has always centered around electricity in some respect. In my previous role, I worked as a Senior Electrical Technician II for a great company called EverWatch Solutions. The position required an abundance of traveling throughout the South America and Canada. I provided my electrical expertise and project management skills for the U.S. State Department’s embassies and consulates. My 12 years in the United States Air Force is where I was able to hone all my leadership, technical skills, and knowledge. The Air Force provided me with great opportunities and helped me to achieve my degree in project management.

How have you and your family stayed positive & productive during the pandemic?

The pandemic has brought my family together like we wouldn’t have imagined. It was a humbling time, but we leaned on each other for support. We navigated the unknowns optimistically and learned new skills together. I watched a lot of YouTube about investing and now it’s one of my favorite hobbies.

What do you love about Renewable Energy?

I love that renewable energy will help eliminate harmful risks to our planet while also offering a clean future for future generations. By us reducing our carbon footprint, we are saving the Earth with every innovation. Not only is it the right thing to do for the world it is also the right thing to do for your wallet. As a homeowner, saving on my utility bills always a step in the right direction.

Share something interesting about you.

Hmmm… When I was a third grader, I remember my science teacher having us draw and describe an invention we would like to see in the future. Without knowing they existed, I drew up a train system that traveled through an underground tube system that was propelled by magnets. When I lived in Tokyo, I was able to ride the Shinkansen.

How do you feel about the recent changes in energy efficiency?

Personally, I think the ease of obtaining energy efficient products and the longevity of said products. Everyday working-class people can afford solar panels or replace their incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs. Also, the government tax credits and savings are substantial.

What do you want people to know about energy efficiency?

We all play a part in protecting the Earth and eliminating energy waste. Energy efficiency reduces greenhouse gas emissions, reduces demand for energy imports, and can help lower household energy costs.

What do you want your customers to remember about you?

Simply, I served this great nation in the United States Air Force. I sacrificed my life, time, and body to protect our country. I now, through my knowledge, professionalism and understanding, will continue to protect the world by offering an alternative to how we have always functioned. We, now more than ever, can change our ways and provide a sustainable future for all generations and I am willing to help lead the charge.

What would you nickname yourself?

I am not sure what I would nickname myself. Although my close friends and family call me Dre. My mother has always called me Andre and now that I am older, my name and all the success, failure, and growth attached to that name, is just enough for me.

Favorite superhero.

I can answer this question in a few parts. My favorite comic book hero is Virgil Hawkins best known as Static Shock. Anansi the West African spider God is my favorite folklore hero. Finally, Malcolm X is my favorite non-fiction hero.