Speakers
Tony Cupido
Biography
Tony Cupido, Ph.D., P.Eng., is a seasoned engineering and sustainability expert with 37 years of experience in engineering, facilities management, and capital development. As Mohawk College’s inaugural Research Chair, Sustainability, he leads cutting-edge research to support a low-carbon economy while engaging students in real-world solutions to social, economic, and environmental challenges. His work includes developing an operational performance database for Canada’s largest institutional net-zero energy and zero-carbon building, The Joyce Centre for Partnership and Innovation, and collaborating with industry and academics on sustainable practices and new technologies.
Jack Dienna
Biography
Jack DiEnna is the Executive Director & Founder of the Geothermal National & International Initiative (GEO-NII) and Principal of Indian Rock Associates LLC. With over 40 years of experience in the electric utility and geothermal heat pump industries, he is a nationally recognized expert in geothermal heat pumps, including marketing, financing, and their economic and environmental benefits. His expertise is sought after by government officials, trade allies, and industry associations worldwide in advancing geothermal and renewable technologies.
Fatima Syed
Biography
Fatima Syed is an award-winning Mississauga-based journalist with The Narwhal, where she reports on energy and environmental issues across Ontario. She has worked for The Walrus, the Toronto Star, The Logic, and National Observer. She has hosted podcasts with The Big Story and CANADALAND. She is also the vice-president of the Canadian Association of Journalists. She was the winner of the 2022 World Press Freedom Canada Award for her coverage of the pandemic in Peel Region for The Local.
Heather McDiarmid
Biography
Heather McDiarmid is the Principal at McDiarmid Climate Consulting which specializes in research, analysis, and communications related to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the residential sector.
Jacob Komar
Biography
Jacob Komar, P.Eng., CGD, is the Principal and lead mechanical engineer at Revolve Engineering Inc., specializing in Net Zero building design, energy modeling, and geothermal systems. He has designed over 20 Net Zero buildings and 70+ commercial geothermal systems for offices, apartments, and government facilities. With a background in both traditional and green HVAC design, he now focuses solely on sustainable, energy-efficient buildings. Jacob co-chairs Edmonton’s Energy Transition and Climate Resilience Committee and is the president and founding member of the Western Canadian Geo Association (WCGeo).
Will Rea
Biography
William Rea first interned at HTS in 2006. After completing his engineering degree at the University of Waterloo, he joined HTS full-time in 2010. Over the years, William continued to show a deep interest in technical understanding of HVAC products and systems. showcasing leadership and a knack for strategic thinking. In 2024, he assumed the role of principal at HTS, where he continues to spearhead projects that push the boundaries of technological advancement.
Serina Carbone
Biography
Serina Carbone is the Vice President of Operations & Sales at DeSantis Homes, where she leads residential and condominium developments with a strong focus on sustainability. With over 13 years of experience, she oversees multiple departments, driving innovation and operational excellence. Serina is spearheading DeSantis Homes’ first geothermal building in Grimsby, reinforcing the company’s commitment to energy efficiency. She also serves on the Grimsby Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and was a finalist for the GNCC Women in Business Corporate Leadership Award, recognizing her leadership in the Hamilton and Niagara Region.
Alex Hill
Biography
Alex Hill, Partner at Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors, has over 20 years of experience in clean energy and energy efficiency, specializing in energy modeling, policy design, and program evaluation. He leads Dunsky’s Opportunity Assessment practice, delivering industry-leading potential studies on distributed energy resources, including efficiency, demand response, electrification, and EVs. Alex also heads Dunsky’s Financing practice, focusing on feasibility studies, financing strategies, and program design for clean energy and building retrofits.
Patrick Marion
Biography
As Senior Procurement & Sustainability Manager at Mattamy Homes Canada, Patrick leads the integration of geothermal technology in the low-rise division, advancing the company’s sustainability initiatives. With a background in supply chain management and process improvement, he focuses on optimizing operations while promoting energy-efficient building practices. Patrick collaborates with homeowners, trade partners, utilities, and government stakeholders to drive innovation and expand geothermal adoption in residential development.
Rae-Anne Miller
Biography
Rae-Anne is a Professional Engineer with a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering as well as an MBA and has been a dedicated leader at the forefront of sustainability at the City of Toronto for over 10 years. As the Project Director of Net Zero Buildings and Building Emission Performance Standards within the Environment, Climate and Forestry Division, she spearheads a talented and diverse team. Together, they are instrumental in the city’s ambitious mission to combat climate change.
Bram Atlin
Biography
Bram Atlin is the Lead of the Multi-Unit Residential Team at Smith + Andersen’s Toronto office, delivering innovative solutions for the GTA’s most impressive high-rise developments. With a career rooted in the firm since his co-op days at the University of Waterloo, he has designed and managed diverse projects across Canada. His portfolio spans high-rise residential, institutional, commercial office, data centres, and community centers, showcasing his deep technical expertise. Bram’s leadership continues to drive forward-thinking design and engineering solutions in the evolving urban landscape.
David Brodrecht
Biography
David Brodrecht is the Senior Geothermal Engineer in the Energy and Carbon Solutions Group
at WalterFedy. He has over 25 years of experience in renewable energy systems, with over 18
years in the geothermal industry working across multiple markets from residential to large scale
commercial and municipal projects. David is a recognized authority in geothermal systems, with extensive experience designing geothermal systems, conducting feasibility studies and energy audits. His role as a board member of the Ontario Geothermal Association and ASHRAE membership demonstrates his commitment to shaping industry guidelines and standards. With a Master’s from Purdue University and a Bachelor’s from the University of Toronto, David combines academic rigor with hands-on expertise.
John Rathbone
Biography
John Rathbone is the CEO and co-founder of Rathco ENG, bringing extensive expertise in energy systems with a focus on district energy and geothermal design. A Professional Engineer, he has led international teams in planning, designing, and implementing district energy systems across Canada. His technical skills include pre-insulated piping, energy transfer stations, and heat pump integration. With experience managing large-scale, multi-disciplinary projects, John drives innovative and efficient energy solutions. His leadership continues to shape the future of sustainable infrastructure in the industry.
Jay Egg
Biography
After serving in the US Navy nuclear power field, Jay Egg began a career in mechanical design engineering & contracting. Now, as an expert consultant, Jay sits on several technical code committees internationally; notably the technical committee for the IAPMO Uniform Mechanical Code. Jay serves on the Board of Directors for Geothermal Rising. Jay has co-authored two McGraw-Hill Textbooks focused on geothermal HVAC technologies and continues to write curriculum and lecture on the merits of Clean Heating and Cooling technologies.
Adrian Perez Solla
Biography
Adrian Perez Solla is the Sales Manager at Ecoforest, specializing in the heat pump and geothermal industry with over eight years of experience. His expertise spans both technical and commercial aspects, allowing him to navigate this dynamic and innovative field effectively. Managing operations across multiple countries, he stays ahead of market trends and technological advancements to ensure Ecoforest’s products meet industry demands. He also focuses on building strategic partnerships and fostering collaboration to drive sustainable energy solutions. Passionate about renewable energy, Adrian combines technical knowledge with market insights to deliver impactful solutions for a greener future.
Jeff Hammond
Biography
Jeff Hammond is the Executive Director of the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA), a non-profit advancing GSHP technology globally since 1987. With 35 years in the geothermal industry, he has held key roles at ClimateMaster, Enertech, Geo-Flo, and WaterFurnace. Jeff holds a B.S. in business administration from the University of Saint Francis and an A.A.S. in electrical engineering technology from Purdue University. An active ASHRAE, AEE, and ASAE member, he has contributed to CSA, AHRI, and IGSHPA committees and currently chairs the next edition of the ANSI/CSA/IGSHPA C448 Standard.
Ali Hoss
Biography
Ali Hoss is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Triovest, leading sustainability performance, strategic growth, and technology innovation for a $12B commercial real estate portfolio in Canada. A recipient of the 2024 Globe and Mail Best Executive Award and the 2020 Canada Energy Innovator Award (AEE), he collaborates with major pension plans to align financial goals with sustainability, driving value creation and asset resilience. Previously, Ali shaped the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s $1B retrofit program and led Toronto’s net-zero policy for existing buildings. He also launched North America’s first performance-based energy conservation program. A professional engineer with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, he is a published author, speaker, and university guest lecturer.
Michael Ridler
Biography
Michael’s professional journey in the HVAC industry commenced at his family’s HVAC company, laying the foundational stones of a career that has since spanned two decades. His path in HVAC led him to Eden Energy Equipment, where he initially served in technical support before moving to his current roles as Technical Trainer and General Manager. Outside of his professional endeavors, Michael dedicates himself to volunteer work with organizations, including HRAI, CIPH, ARI, and IGSHPA. He is recognized for providing comprehensive technical training to contractors, engineers, and industry stakeholders throughout North America. Michael harbors a deep-seated passion for leveraging new technologies to transform the HVAC and energy sectors, firmly believing in their revolutionary potential. Most importantly he is a firm believer in mentorship, collaboration and open-minded collaboration over competition.
Catherine Thorn
Biography
Catherine Thorn is the Director of Sustainability & Energy Management at the University of Toronto, leading the university’s Climate Positive commitment. She oversees major carbon reduction, energy conservation, and waste management projects while supporting academic sustainability initiatives. She also guides tri-campus construction and renovation projects, shaping institutional energy and sustainability standards. Previously, Catherine was Senior Director of Community Energy Planning at Enwave Energy, where she led ground-breaking low-carbon district energy projects, including Enwave’s first geoexchange system. She also managed strategic energy services at Golder Associates. A Professional Engineer and Ivey Business School graduate, she serves on the Board of QUEST Canada, with her work published by the UN.
Josh Lewis
Biography
Josh Lewis, P.Eng, CEM, is the Chief Technical Engineer at Nerva Energy, an award-winning energy advisory firm and specialty contractor providing smart building optimization by leveraging niche expertise with leading IoT technologies to ensure buildings function more intuitively and efficiently, creating energy earning & carbon reduction opportunities, and fostering a positive impact on occupancy, quality of life and the overall environment. Josh is an award-winning leader in the energy sector, including being recognized as and AEE Fellow and the AEE International Energy Innovator of the Year in 2019, leading a 2022 & 2025 Clean 50 Top Project, and being the principal on a project which won the 2023 CaGBC Green Building Visionary award.
Caroline Karvonen
Biography
Caroline Karvonen is the Senior Director Sustainability and Stakeholder Relations at BOMA Toronto, the largest Building Owners and Managers Association in North America. For almost 20 years, her career has been focused in the ESG and sustainability fields, with experience at municipal and provincial governments, electricity distribution, and commercial real estate sectors. Caroline has a background in geography and urban studies from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Master’s degree in Environment and Resource Studies from the University of Waterloo. She is a designated Environmental Professional and in 2021 was named to the ‘Clean50’ as one of Canada’s sustainability leaders.
Rob Simpson
Biography
Rob Simpson is Senior Director, Sustainability at CDPQ. Rob’s work supports the company’s global real estate portfolio, primarily with a focus on building energy and decarbonization programs, as well as climate risk adaptation and mitigation. He also supports internal teams with the development and implementation of industry-leading sustainable finance programs. Rob has worked in the real estate industry for over 20 years in several different capacities, including roles in design and construction as well as management and operations. Rob is currently a member of the GRESB Real Estate Standards Committee and has overseen IC’s GRESB participation since 2015. Rob’s education includes MBSc (Building Science), B.Tech (Architecture), BA, and LEED AP.
Ridhima Nayyar
Biography
Ridhima leads the Sustainability program at RioCan. In her 7+ year tenure at RioCan, Ridhima has advanced RioCan’s ESG vision, strategy, and practices. Prior to joining RioCan, Ridhima worked for EY’s Climate Change and Sustainability Services’ practice. In her early years, Ridhima has worked on sustainability and construction projects in United States and India. Ridhima is a Civil Engineer with a master’s degree in environmental science and is trained in ISO 14064-3 (GHG reporting and verification) and holds LEED AP (Operations and Maintenance), WELL AP , GCB.D and PMP certifications.
Katie Harper
Biography
Katie Harper is an Associate with Springboard Communications, which provides media training, digital media campaigns, communications research, and other strategic communications support to environmental organizations. Katie has worked on engaging people in climate action in the non-profit and corporate sectors for 15 years and holds an MSc. in freshwater ecology from McGill University.
Connor Dacquay
Biography
Connor Dacquay is a licensed engineer specializing in ground source heat pump systems, with experience in North America, Asia, and Australia. Since 2018, he has worked as a researcher and consultant, conducting feasibility studies and designing large-scale geothermal systems. Passionate about education, Connor is an instructor for the Certified Geo-Exchange Designer (CGD) course through IGSHPA. During his doctoral studies, he developed an innovative control sequence that enhances GHX efficiency by dynamically adjusting the tint of smart glass windows in buildings. He is licensed in New York, Manitoba, and Ontario.
Rex Camit
Biography
Rex Camit is a Building Systems Engineer with expertise in energy management, HVAC design, and geothermal systems. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Building Systems Engineering from Conestoga College, along with advanced diplomas in Mechanical Engineering Technology – Building Sciences and Building Systems Engineering from Seneca College. A certified LEED Green Associate, he also holds BES Operator Class I and II certifications. Currently a registered Professional Geoscientist with APEGA, Rex has extensive experience as a GIS Consultant in geothermal, environmental, and mining sectors. He holds a BSc in Geology from the State University of the Philippines and an MSc in Geological Survey from the University of Twente. An active ASHRAE volunteer, he serves as Technical Committee 1.6 Webmaster and WV Membership Promotion Co-Chair.
Sean Mason
Biography
Sean Mason is a progressive, multi-award-winning builder dedicated to crafting high-performance, energy-efficient homes that meet the evolving needs of today’s homeowners. With a focus on Net Zero Ready and ENERGY STAR® certified properties, his company, SEAN. leads the way in sustainable residential construction, delivering projects that prioritize both quality and environmental responsibility. Sean is proudly driving positive change in Barrie, Bracebridge and across Ontario.
Jamie Hutchins
Biography
Jamie is a seasoned leader in energy efficiency, sustainability, and operations with over 20 years of experience. As Sr. Director at CLEAResult, Jamie leads a team of 75+ professionals delivering energy efficiency programs across Canada. Previously, Jamie was a practicing geotechnical engineer, and conducted research on converting oil & gas wells to geothermal wells. Jamie also served as Sr. Director at MyHEAT, using remote sensing and AI to identify home energy loss, and as Chief Operating Officer at Neutral Fuels, the largest biofuel producer in the Gulf region. In addition, Jamie was a founding board member of StepUp, an organization advancing gender equity and diversity in Canada’s energy sector. Jamie holds a BS in Civil Engineering and an MS in Engineering Systems and Management, and is a licensed Civil Engineer. Credentials include PMP, CEM, and LEED AP.
Bill Eggertson
Biography
After working as a journalist with Canadian Press and others, Bill switched into renewable energy in 1985 when the federal government cancelled support for that sector. Since then, he has managed nine associations, including the Canadian Earth Energy Association, Canadian chapter of IGSHPA, Canadian Association for Renewable Energies, director of the Canadian Geoexchange Coalition, and now NetZeroPLUS Canada. Bill managed the Climate Security initiative of the UK Foreign Office and was an early presenter for Al Gore’s Climate Reality initiative, while continuing to write for The Energy Mix, Renewable Energy Focus, International Solar Energy Report, SolarAccess.com and other outlets. He was picked as a torchbearer for the 2010 winter Olympic games and then installed a unique geothermal system into his last residence, which was rated in the top-20 energy-efficient homes in Canada.
Arsalan Chughtai
Biography
Arsalan Chughtai is the Sustainability Analyst at Mattamy Homes’ GTA Urban division. He has contributed to several of Mattamy’s key sustainability efforts, facilitating cross-disciplinary collaboration to achieve industry-leading carbon reductions in multi-unit residential communities. In a market where affordability and user experience are increasingly critical, Arsalan focuses on advancing new technologies and strategies that both reduce operational and embodied carbon while balancing cost-effectiveness, constructability and impacts to the homebuyer.
Kossay Makhzoumi
Biography
Kossay Makhzoumi is the Renewables Portfolio Manager at Mattamy Asset Management, where he oversees the implementation of geothermal heating and cooling systems across a range of residential developments. His work spans the full project lifecycle, including feasibility, design, construction, and operations, successfully integrating geo-exchange systems into both low-rise and high-rise communities. Kossay’s efforts in geothermal adoption continue to support Mattamy’s push towards electrification and decarbonization.
Ersilia Serafini
Biography
Ersilia Serafini is the CEO of Summerhill, a Canadian owned and operated energy efficiency implementation company operating in nearly every Province and Territory. Ersilia has dedicated her career to Canada’s environment and energy sector and to building and leading teams of people who are working to achieve measureable reductions in energy use. At the community level, Ersilia is on the Board of Toronto Hydro Corporation, the Treasurer of the Clean Economy Fund and is a member and Board officer of the Toronto Gold Chapter of the Young Presidents Organization. Ersilia is a proud mom to two teenage daughters and loves nothing more than finding and recommending a great restaurant in any City she visits.
Abid Syed
Biography
Abid Syed, MBA, P.Eng., PMP – Abid brings a deep expertise in energy systems, decarbonization strategies, and smart technologies, coupled with a passion for innovation in every project he undertakes. He leads the energy sector development at the GMF, where he applies deep expertise in community energy systems to drive sustainable municipal initiatives. Abid was formerly involved in the execution of the building technology vision, and decarbonization plan for a private equity firm operating in commercial real estate. Prior to that, he led the strategic energy plan for a municipality, developing and implementing capital projects, programs, and policies to meet energy efficiency and carbon reduction targets. Abid is a licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng.), a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree specializing in Innovation and Strategy.
Noémie De Vuyst
Biography
Noémie De Vuyst, Advisor, Programs Outreach | FCM’s Green Municipal Fund : Noémie is an Outreach Advisor for the Green Municipal Fund (GMF), a $2.4 billion program which supports municipalities and their partners in the implementation of innovative sustainable development initiatives. Since joining GMF in 2017, Noémie has collaborated with municipalities large and small across Canada to develop successful funding applications.
Ralph Torrie
Biography
From his representation of Canadian NGOs before the Canadian hearings of the Brundtland Commission, to his key role in drafting the world’s first greenhouse gas emission reduction target, Ralph Torrie has been advocating for sustainable futures for nearly 50 years. His low carbon scenario analysis for Canada was the first of its kind and the rationale and framework he developed for local action on climate change is used throughout the world. He served as the Assistant Coordinator of the Energy Research Group of the United Nations University and the International Development Research Centre and was a senior executive of two publicly traded management consulting firms. He is currently research director of Corporate Knights, a research & publishing organization that promotes the sustainability transition and that produces rankings, financial product ratings, & investor guidance on corporate sustainability performance.
Sameh Gharib
Biography
Sameh is an experienced leader in energy efficiency having delivered energy conservation programs across Ontario over the last 10 years on behalf of both electric and gas utility companies. As Program Director at CLEAResult, Sameh currently oversees the delivery of energy conservation programs to income-qualified residents of Eastern and Atlantic Canada. This portfolio includes the largest direct-install Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pump (ccASHP) program in Canada, which Sameh played a key part in developing the program and technical design for. Sameh holds a BASc in Chemical Engineering. Sameh previously led technical evaluation and M&V teams working on Ontario’s commercial and industrial energy conservation programs.
Cameron Engels
Biography
Cameron oversees the technical review of third-party energy projects under a variety of energy efficiency and incentive-based programs. Cameron has also worked previously in the energy modelling field, and has working knowledge of different modelling softwares. During his tenure, he has had exposure to the mining, commercial, industrial, educational, residential sectors, and the various equipment used therein. Cameron holds a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Queen’s University, with a specialization in Materials Science. He is a registered Professional Engineer (P.Eng), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), and Certified Measurement and Verification Professional (CMVP).
Pushpinder Rana
Biography
Pushpinder Rana works as the Product Director at Mitsubishi Electric Sales Canada Inc. where he is responsible for the overall product management and strategy, and industry relations. He is a professional engineer (P. Eng) and holds an MBA degree and has 25+ years of international experience in the HVAC industry, especially of the heat-pumps and VRF systems. In the past, he worked in South Korea, Thailand, Kenya and India prior to permanently settling down in Canada. He sits as the chair on CSA-B52, The Mechanical Refrigeration Code of Canada and a voting member at ASHRAE committees. He is an instructor under ASHARE Learning Institute (ALI) and conducts System Design and Application trainings across North America. He works closely with HRAI, AHRI, CaGBC, MASHRAE, MCAC and other leading industry bodies, and participates routinely in key panel discussions and major industry events. He is one of the leading subject experts on “A2L/low GWP Refrigerant Transition in Canada” in coordination with federal, provincial and other regulatory authorities.
Doug Webber
Biography
Doug Webber co-founded Purpose Building in 2018 after leading the green building teams at Halsall and then WSP. He supports clients across the real estate value chain, collaborating with them to create corporate sustainability strategies, develop new building assets, establish and pursue zero-carbon portfolio targets, and deliver deep retrofits. He works to accelerate positive outcomes by effectively linking sustainability outcomes with business outcomes. Doug is Past Chair of the CaGBC Zero Carbon Steering Committee. In 2013 and 2021 Doug was named a member of Canada’s Clean 50. In 2011 and 2014 he was awarded Leadership Awards by the Canada Green Building Council.
Ashley Jones
Biography
Ashley brings over five years of experience in the energy sector, assisting both public and private organizations in achieving their sustainability objectives. She spent more than a decade with a top Energy Service Company (ESCO) and has recently taken on a leadership role in Business Development at SOFIAC. As a LEED-accredited Green Associate, Ashley is eager to help organizations navigate the challenges of the Canadian climate crisis.
Tim Weber
Biography
Tim Weber is the Co-Founder and CEO of Diverso Energy, North America’s leading geothermal utility provider. With 30 years of HVAC experience—20 of them focused exclusively on geothermal—Tim uses his expertise to drive business development, build client relationships, and identify new market opportunities. He is currently focused on pioneering new financial models to support the adoption of geothermal systems in mid- to high-rise residential buildings. Leveraging his deep knowledge of geothermal and commercial real estate, Tim helps clients identify projects that best align with Diverso Energy’s model, optimizing their economic advantages in turn. Outside of Diverso, he serves as Vice President of the Ontario Geothermal Association, working to dismantle the barriers to adoption and accelerate our net-zero transition.
Evelyn Lundhild
Biography
Evelyn Lundhild is currently a senior manager in the Demand Side Management business unit at the IESO. She is currently co-chairing two working groups with LDC representatives developing a new funding model for LDC participation in DSM. She led the IESO’s report back to government in early 2024 with recommendations that were foundational for the current eDSM framework and the development of the IESO’s 2025-2027 eDSM Program Plan. Evelyn has been with the IESO and its predecessor, the OPA, for 15 years in a variety of roles leading demand side management and energy efficiency program design and delivery. Prior to joining the OPA she worked in the chemical industry in Ontario, in a business development role. She has an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Waterloo and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business at York University.
Jeff Weir
Biography
For over 35 years, Jeff has been involved in buildings and their energy use and system renewal, and has served customers in almost every region of Canada. Jeff has worked with all levels of government and all major vertical markets in developing and delivering comprehensive energy and GHG retrofits. He has represented his employers on International Trade Missions, and on the Board of the Energy Services Association of Canada. He has received several corporate awards for business achievement and is a winner of an ASHRAE Technology Award. He is currently Senior Business Advisor at Trane, helping organizations to make their buildings the best they can be. Jeff is a CET and CEM. He has been part of the Canadian Healthcare Engineering Society (CHES) Ontario leadership team since 2011 and is a member of the Canadian College of Health Leaders.
Jasmine Lyn
Biography
Jasmine Lyn has been happily contributing to the sustainability sector for the past 8 years working in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green buildings from her background in Civil & Environmental engineering. She’s worked in the public, private, and non-profit sectors to accelerate climate action while encouraging equity, diversity and inclusion. Her current focus is on decarbonization of the existing building stock to help Canada reach its Net Zero targets with BOMA Canada.