People-Centered Firm
We’re a motivated team, passionate about sustainability in our work, operations, and communities. We treat our team, clients, and stakeholders as valued and critical players in our work and impact.
Brendle Group is proud of our more than 20 year history helping clients reach their sustainability goals! We’re excited to share a little bit about our history, our purpose and mission, and our exciting team of talented professionals.
When our President, Judy Dorsey, started Brendle Group in 1996, she chose her mother’s maiden name, Brendle, as its foundation.
Eileen Brendle-Dorsey was a leading edge-architect promoting green building techniques as early as the 1950s, with plans to start her own firm one day. Eileen’s career was tragically cut short – she passed away from breast cancer in 1970, just short of her 40th birthday.
Brendle Group’s name is a tribute to all women and leaders challenging conventions and to Eileen’s vision and enduring legacy.
Brendle Group has been practicing sustainability since the company was founded in 1996, and we are committed to embodying sustainability principles in our own operations.
Purpose
Apply our engineering and consulting talents to create lasting impacts that sustain and inspire our communities and our world.
Mission
Accelerate equitable solutions to the climate crisis.
Core Values
- Thrive: We provide flexibility and support to thrive in work and life.
- Impact: We do work that makes a difference.
- Inspire: We inspire passions by innovating new paths for the future.
- Relationship: We respect and support each other and collaborate to build strong, equitable teams.
- Equity: We embrace diversity, inclusion and justice to expand our perspectives and authentically pursue equitable outcomes.
Brendle Group remains committed to helping shape the ever-evolving frontiers of sustainability and addressing the most pressing needs. Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. For details, please review our 2023 Impact Report at BrendleGroup.com/Impact2023.
It is through our talented team that we make sustainability accessible and rewarding for our clients!
Explore our full team below and be sure to click on individual names to learn more about them and their areas of expertise.
Board of Directors
As the founding president and principal engineer of Brendle Group, Judy is a pioneering engineer, entrepreneur, and sustainability business leader with 30 years of executive expertise in innovation, strategy, and risk management. A natural team-builder, Judy has led the completion of more than 300 sustainability projects for over 150 clients across 30 states and is co-founder of the Colorado Clean Energy Cluster (CCEC) and the International Cleantech Network. Many of these projects pioneered new frontiers in sustainability, prior to national standards and certifications, in areas such as green building, greenhouse gas management and accounting, net zero energy, and climate resilience. Judy has also coached numerous business leaders and public policy makers on managing the risks and opportunities posed by climate change, energy system transitions, and other socioeconomic challenges.
Through natural curiosity and engineering problem-solving, Judy distills complex technical problems into policy and strategy actions that solve for both the long and the short term. She is a valued collaborator known for her skilled facilitation in engaging diverse groups of stakeholders seeking to align and execute around a shared purpose. Judy is the recipient of numerous industry awards and is featured in the Smithsonian Institute’s Places of Innovation exhibit. She also serves as a U.S. C3E Ambassador, a group of distinguished senior leaders who serve as role models and advocates for women in clean energy. Additionally, she is a member of the Colorado State University Energy Institute Industry Advisory Board and is on the Board of Directors of the Peaks to People Water Fund and the Colorado Clean Energy Cluster.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University
Affiliations
- National Ski Areas Association Board of Directors
- Colorado Clean Energy Cluster Board of Directors
- Peaks To People Water Fund Board of Directors
- Colorado Clean Energy Education & Empowerment (C3E) Steering Committee
- Colorado State University Energy Institute External Advisory Committee
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory Cities-LEAP External Review Group
Shelby is a natural leader with eighteen years of experience helping to shape the vital intersection between urban planning and sustainability on a national scale. From research to implementation, Shelby’s portfolio of work is transforming the way that communities plan and interact with resources and the natural environment. Her strengths are in navigating complex policy and organizational landscapes and engaging and empowering stakeholders. A skilled and creative project manager, her experience includes sustainability, land use, community energy, and climate resiliency plans and programs for a range of public and private sector clients. Her work in sustainability indicators and dashboards helps ensure plans are implemented and monitored throughout the planning horizon.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Public Administration from the University of Colorado (Denver)
- Bachelor of Environmental Design in Community Planning from the University of Colorado
- Green Building Certificate from the Institute for the Built Environment at Colorado State University
- American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Member
- LEED Accredited Professional
- Leadership Northern Colorado Class of 2018
Affiliations
- American Planning Association
Dan is a principal at Brendle Group responsible for ensuring execution of all projects to scope and budget in addition to overseeing all legal, financial, and operational processes within the company. Dan brings to Brendle Group 30 years of experience in consulting, engineering, project management, strategic and financial planning and analysis, operations and business performance, corporate management, software integration, and mergers and acquisitions. Dan has a depth of experience spanning from Fortune 500 companies to technology startups and engineering consulting firms.
Over his career and work with Brendle Group, Dan has been involved in numerous renewable energy development projects, renewable product development opportunities, and economic and financing analysis for a wide array of renewable studies. He has a passion for and experience with deep energy renovation and new development of green buildings. Dan brings his technology background to Brendle Group and supports data analytics and quality control processes as part of Brendle Group’s program management across all projects.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University
Ellen is a global advisor in finance, strategy, and operations. She specializes in establishing accretive value in an ESG framework. Her approach to valuation, investment and risk management has supported over $20B in project value for due diligence, negotiation, procurement, and financing for publicly traded, private equity funded, non-profit, and governmental firms. She has held CEO-facing roles at a $1.5B global engineering firm, developed water rights valuation that increased leasing value 20% for a $2B annual revenue water agency, and lead the international headquarters relocation assessment for an AUD$3.6B revenue airline.
She is Board Chair for the 2-County serving Mental Health Partners. Focus areas include vertical and horizontal partnerships, public payer contract negotiation, and private sector partner growth. In addition to Board service, Ellen is on the Finance Faculty at University of Colorado-Boulder. Her teaching focuses on Corporate Finance, Investments, and Entrepreneurial Finance.
Ellen has held executive advisory roles with KPMG, Booz & Company and MWH Global addressing climate, market, and geopolitical risk effects on pricing, growth, and risk management. Ellen has earned the NACD Directorship Certification and now serves as a facilitator for NACD-sponsored certification training.
Professional Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Natural Resource Economics from Oregon State University
- Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin
- Bachelor of Arts in German Language and Literature from Allegheny College
Jenn spent most of her career at New Belgium Brewing. Throughout her 25-year tenure, Jenn epitomized the spirit of using business as a catalyst for positive social and individual outcomes. As a pivotal figure in the company’s rise from a modest team of 14 to a thriving community of over 700 employees, she not only helped pioneer the concept of business as a force for good but also embodied it. In her versatile roles—ranging from CFO and COO to Director of Environmental and Social Responsibility, Strategic Projects, and even Interim VP of Marketing—Jenn showcased her unwavering commitment to learning and growth. Her ability to blend value-driven leadership with exceptional financial outcomes became a hallmark of her career.
Key achievements under Jenn’s leadership include the adoption of open book management and the introduction of an employee stock ownership plan, testament to her belief in transparency and equity. Her foresight in establishing a sustainability management system underscored the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship, while her role in an international beverage industry environmental working group highlighted her influence beyond New Belgium. Jenn’s leadership in selecting a site for a second brewery underscored her strategic vision, and her involvement in numerous public/private partnerships propelled regional sustainability efforts forward. Furthermore, Jenn was instrumental in developing participative decision-making and strategic alignment systems, ensuring that New Belgium’s growth was both inclusive and aligned with its core values.
After New Belgium, Jenn joined a farm-based craft brewery in British Columbia as CEO and CFO, working them out of an operating loss with a comprehensive brand and packaging redesign. Called back to Colorado by the Covid-19 pandemic, Jenn now provides financial, strategic, and leadership consulting to values-driven entrepreneurs. That is, when she’s not walking her dogs, hiking around Europe, perfecting the art of sourdough baking, parenting her two young adult children, and indulging her passion for self-exploration and contemplation of the nature of reality.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Business Administration from Regis University with a concentration in Finance
- Master of Arts in Philosophy (All but Dissertation) from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Arts in Humanities from Washington College
- Certificate in Leadership Coaching, Institute for Transformational Leadership, Georgetown University
Management Team
As the founding president and principal engineer of Brendle Group, Judy is a pioneering engineer, entrepreneur, and sustainability business leader with 30 years of executive expertise in innovation, strategy, and risk management. A natural team-builder, Judy has led the completion of more than 300 sustainability projects for over 150 clients across 30 states and is co-founder of the Colorado Clean Energy Cluster (CCEC) and the International Cleantech Network. Many of these projects pioneered new frontiers in sustainability, prior to national standards and certifications, in areas such as green building, greenhouse gas management and accounting, net zero energy, and climate resilience. Judy has also coached numerous business leaders and public policy makers on managing the risks and opportunities posed by climate change, energy system transitions, and other socioeconomic challenges.
Through natural curiosity and engineering problem-solving, Judy distills complex technical problems into policy and strategy actions that solve for both the long and the short term. She is a valued collaborator known for her skilled facilitation in engaging diverse groups of stakeholders seeking to align and execute around a shared purpose. Judy is the recipient of numerous industry awards and is featured in the Smithsonian Institute’s Places of Innovation exhibit. She also serves as a U.S. C3E Ambassador, a group of distinguished senior leaders who serve as role models and advocates for women in clean energy. Additionally, she is a member of the Colorado State University Energy Institute Industry Advisory Board and is on the Board of Directors of the Peaks to People Water Fund and the Colorado Clean Energy Cluster.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University
Affiliations
- National Ski Areas Association Board of Directors
- Colorado Clean Energy Cluster Board of Directors
- Peaks To People Water Fund Board of Directors
- Colorado Clean Energy Education & Empowerment (C3E) Steering Committee
- Colorado State University Energy Institute External Advisory Committee
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory Cities-LEAP External Review Group
Bethany brings over 20 years of experience in management, team development, and engineering consulting. As the Director of Engineering, she uses innovation and critical thinking to deliver solutions that are technically feasible, financially viable, and implementation ready. Bethany has expertise in sustainable design and energy efficiency consulting, decarbonization planning, building system commissioning, and capital project management.
Prior to joining Brendle Group, Bethany worked in both consulting and the private sector. She led large capital projects in the role of owner for New Belgium Brewing helping the organization live its values in green building and climate action while growing its Fort Collins campus and expanding to Asheville, NC. She’s also an experienced project manager serving clients with aggressive net zero carbon goals. She brings a robust and varied skillset in project management and capital planning for project implementation, complemented by a deep understanding of complex building systems, energy efficiency, and the unique challenges associated with building decarbonization.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering, HVAC System Design from the University of Wyoming (Laramie)
- LEED Accredited Professional
- Sustainable Living Association Sustainable Leadership Program
Affiliations
- American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Member
Shelby is a natural leader with nineteen years of experience helping to shape the vital intersection between urban planning and sustainability on a national scale. From research to implementation, Shelby’s portfolio of work is transforming the way that communities plan and interact with resources and the natural environment. Her strengths are in navigating complex policy and organizational landscapes and engaging and empowering stakeholders. A skilled and creative project manager, her experience includes sustainability, land use, community energy, and climate resiliency plans and programs for a range of public and private sector clients. Her work in sustainability indicators and dashboards helps ensure plans are implemented and monitored throughout the planning horizon.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Public Administration from the University of Colorado (Denver)
- Bachelor of Environmental Design in Community Planning from the University of Colorado
- Green Building Certificate from the Institute for the Built Environment at Colorado State University
- American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Member
- LEED Accredited Professional
- Leadership Northern Colorado Class of 2018
Affiliations
- American Planning Association
Dan is a principal and the Chief Operating Officer at Brendle Group responsible for ensuring execution of all projects to scope and budget in addition to overseeing all legal, financial, and operational processes within the company. Dan brings to Brendle Group 30 years of experience in consulting, engineering, project management, strategic and financial planning and analysis, operations and business performance, corporate management, software integration, and mergers and acquisitions. Dan has a depth of experience spanning from Fortune 500 companies to technology startups and engineering consulting firms.
Over his career and work with Brendle Group, Dan has been involved in numerous renewable energy development projects, renewable product development opportunities, and economic and financing analysis for a wide array of renewable studies. He has a passion for and experience with deep energy renovation and new development of green buildings. Dan brings his technology background to Brendle Group and supports data analytics and quality control processes as part of Brendle Group’s program management across all projects.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University
Jason has a long track record of taking strategic business goals from concept through implementation and has more than 15 years of experience leading a wide variety of business operations and sustainability projects. He has deployed critical software and hardware projects, overseen day-to-day financial operations, managed commercial facilities, and led large workplace changes. He also has significant experience with green buildings – having led a multi-million-dollar, LEED Platinum construction project, overseen microgrid and renewable energy installations, deployed bi-directional electric vehicle charging stations at commercial facilities, facilitated healthy building certifications, launched waste reduction campaigns, and supported the integration of smart building technology.
Jason has extensive expertise in managing sustainable business operations. Prior to joining Brendle Group, he served as the Chief Operating Officer of The Alliance Center, a coworking and event space that serves over 170 sustainability-focused organizations annually. Under his leadership, The Alliance Center received numerous awards for its sustainability achievements, including being recognized as a showcase project by the Department of Energy’s Better Buildings initiative.
Jason developed a deep appreciation of the environment while growing up in the mountains of Colorado and gained an understanding of the world’s sustainability challenges while working in fair trade and microfinance. He is passionate about advancing long-term solutions to the climate crisis that take into account people and the planet; he is grateful to be able to do just that at Brendle Group.
When not at work, Jason enjoys spending time with his wife and three young children, preferably in the mountains in his native state.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Finance emphasis from the University of Colorado, Boulder
- Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute
- LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP O+M) from the United States Green Building Chapter
- Salesforce Certified Administrator
Julie brings 25+ years of experience in executive leadership, business operations, project management, people management and culture, training and adult education, leadership development and coaching, organizational change, and communications. Her experience spans startups, as well as global Fortune companies. As Senior Director of People & Communications at Brendle Group, Julie is responsible for employee life cycle management, fostering justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) practices, and providing leadership to the People & Communications Team.
Julie has held Chief Operating Officer roles at a high growth edtech company, as well as a software and engineering firm specializing in microgrids and the management of distributed energy resources. As a Project Management Professional® and a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources, her expertise lies at the intersection of people and operations with emphasis on implementing organizational systems supporting process efficiencies, maximizing talent, and evolving positive organizational cultures. She has served on the board of directors for Colorado C3E (Clean Energy, Education and Empowerment Initiative), Crossroads Safehouse, and as a governor-appointed member of the Colorado Workforce Development board.
A Colorado native, Julie enjoys spending time with her family doing “all things Colorado.” Outside of Brendle Group, she is principal of Shine! Catalyst Consulting and an Organizational Development Consultant at Employers Council.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Education and Human Development from The George Washington University
- Bachelor of Science in Business in Human Resources and Entrepreneurship from the University of Colorado
- Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Colorado
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Senior Human Resources Professional (SPHR)
Team Members
As the founding president and principal engineer of Brendle Group, Judy is a pioneering engineer, entrepreneur, and sustainability business leader with 30 years of executive expertise in innovation, strategy, and risk management. A natural team-builder, Judy has led the completion of more than 300 sustainability projects for over 150 clients across 30 states and is co-founder of the Colorado Clean Energy Cluster (CCEC) and the International Cleantech Network. Many of these projects pioneered new frontiers in sustainability, prior to national standards and certifications, in areas such as green building, greenhouse gas management and accounting, net zero energy, and climate resilience. Judy has also coached numerous business leaders and public policy makers on managing the risks and opportunities posed by climate change, energy system transitions, and other socioeconomic challenges.
Through natural curiosity and engineering problem-solving, Judy distills complex technical problems into policy and strategy actions that solve for both the long and the short term. She is a valued collaborator known for her skilled facilitation in engaging diverse groups of stakeholders seeking to align and execute around a shared purpose. Judy is the recipient of numerous industry awards and is featured in the Smithsonian Institute’s Places of Innovation exhibit. She also serves as a U.S. C3E Ambassador, a group of distinguished senior leaders who serve as role models and advocates for women in clean energy. Additionally, she is a member of the Colorado State University Energy Institute Industry Advisory Board and is on the Board of Directors of the Peaks to People Water Fund and the Colorado Clean Energy Cluster.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University
Affiliations
- National Ski Areas Association Board of Directors
- Colorado Clean Energy Cluster Board of Directors
- Peaks To People Water Fund Board of Directors
- Colorado Clean Energy Education & Empowerment (C3E) Steering Committee
- Colorado State University Energy Institute External Advisory Committee
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory Cities-LEAP External Review Group
Laura is a results-driven analyst with 15 years of experience bringing data to life and telling its story through reports and interactive web displays for data-driven decisions. She successfully implements automated reports and online maps and dashboards using GIS, Tableau, SQL, Python, and Arcade scripting.
Laura leverages data and technology to drive transformation and optimize efficiency in a collaborative, cross-functional setting. Laura is part of Brendle Group’s Analytics Service Team and uses her expertise to meet client’s unique needs by identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, facilitating effective storytelling derived from data, and crafting exceptional reporting systems. Rounding out Laura’s expertise, she has a comprehensive understanding of renewable energy principles, risk assessment, and emergency response.
Laura focuses on using technology and analysis to benefit the well-being of the community – minimizing the impacts of climate change while creating safer, more resilient communities.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Arts in Physical and Environmental Geography from California State University
- S-341, GIS Specialist for Incident Management
- FAA Drone Pilot Certification
Affiliations
- Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy
Shelby is a natural leader with eighteen years of experience helping to shape the vital intersection between urban planning and sustainability on a national scale. From research to implementation, Shelby’s portfolio of work is transforming the way that communities plan and interact with resources and the natural environment. Her strengths are in navigating complex policy and organizational landscapes and engaging and empowering stakeholders. A skilled and creative project manager, her experience includes sustainability, land use, community energy, and climate resiliency plans and programs for a range of public and private sector clients. Her work in sustainability indicators and dashboards helps ensure plans are implemented and monitored throughout the planning horizon.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Public Administration from the University of Colorado (Denver)
- Bachelor of Environmental Design in Community Planning from the University of Colorado
- Green Building Certificate from the Institute for the Built Environment at Colorado State University
- American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Member
- LEED Accredited Professional
- Leadership Northern Colorado Class of 2018
Affiliations
- American Planning Association
Sarah is an enthusiastic member of the Brendle Group team who has worked in both government and the private sector on a broad range of planning topics including: climate, resiliency, transportation, comprehensive, and integrated water and land use. Sarah is fueled by a passion for finding ways to bridge gaps in the often-siloed areas of sustainability – as well as building on existing intersections – collaborating with customers to create and implement impactful projects.
Sarah’s previous work with North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization sharpened her ability to bring together politically diverse stakeholders to produce plans and programs that provided benefits to an entire region. Sarah is flourishing as a subject matter expert in the field of integrated land use and water planning, bringing her expertise to projects ranging from code review to metrics development.
What really sets Sarah apart is her passion for connecting with stakeholders and project partners, facilitating robust dialogues, and developing a deeper understanding of the communities with which she works.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of City and Regional Planning from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Florida
- Leadership Northern Colorado Class of 2019
- American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Member
Affiliations
- American Planning Association (APA)
As a dynamic, creative thinker, Mitchell brings a wealth of experience in graphic design, digital photography, video production, content management, branding, and public engagement. Mitchell excels in crafting innovative visual communication solutions that drive impact. With over a decade of experience in design and engagement for the public sector, Mitchell delivers high-quality, budget-conscious outcomes for internal and external clients.
Throughout his career in traditional media, municipal government, and public health, Mitchell has demonstrated proven leadership and an ambition for new challenges. His experience includes crafting award-winning television programming and social media campaigns, leading communication teams, and launching impactful digital tools with ADA-compliance.
In his role at Brendle Group, Mitchell supports the organization’s mission of accelerating equitable solutions to the climate crisis through his skills in visual communication. He contributes to a wide range of sustainability initiatives, collaborating with various teams to amplify the impact of projects aimed at creating a more sustainable future.
Professional Qualifications
- Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design from the Art Institute of Colorado
- Certificate of Training from the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2)
Jillian has experience supporting local government sustainability, climate planning, and greenhouse gas analysis. She is a technical greenhouse gas expert with expertise in reporting protocols and exploring mitigation and adaptation strategies for communities, private entities, and individuals. Jillian combines this knowledge with stakeholder engagement and equitable decarbonization considerations to inform her approach to sustainability analysis. Her educational background in both psychology and climate science enables her to bring a critical combination of technical analysis and social motivations which provides a depth of understanding for the needs of individuals and communities.
In her previous work for municipal governments and nonprofits, Jillian developed skills in large-group facilitation, climate education, and community-scale climate action planning. She also gained experience creating successful volunteer training programs, managing large-scale community engagement activities, and securing funding for sustainability improvements. This experience gave her insight into the relationship between nonprofits, government organizations, and the private sector.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Climate Science and Solutions from Northern Arizona University
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Heidelberg University
Paulina is driven to make a meaningful impact in sustainability by blending her academic background in environmental science and urban and regional planning with a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Her key strengths lie in data-driven decision-making, policy analysis, and community outreach. Paulina is adept at leveraging technical expertise to promote social and environmental resilience while ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and considered.
A strong commitment to holistic solutions is driven by Paulina’s innovative and diverse perspectives. Her experience working within municipal government as a city planner provides valuable insight into the dynamic nature of operations, policy, and procedures. She also has experience in affordable housing solutions, having conducted research on the topic during her graduate studies and through practical experience as a fair housing investigator in Southern California. This background enables Paulina to analyze complex urban challenges and advocate for inclusive policies that prioritize underrepresented communities.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of California Irvine
- Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science with a minor in Spatial Studies from the University of California Santa Barbara
Affiliations
- American Planning Association Member
Abbye is a water expert helping to shape the vital intersection between water resources and efficiency with land use planning. With more than five years of utility and local government experience, she has a deep understanding of the dynamics within these sectors and best practices for water engineering and planning within such entities. At Brendle Group, Abbye supports a wide range of projects through the implementation of sustainable water management solutions and climate resiliency approaches.
Abbye has extensive experience developing data-driven water efficiency programs and policies that require collaboration with a variety of stakeholders to implement new programming and updates to municipal and land use codes. During her time as a Research Assistant at Colorado School of Mines, she also studied the influence of redevelopment along the Colorado Front Range on water use patterns.
In addition to her technical background, Abbye has strong communication and facilitation skills that are essential for collaboration and consensus building in the pursuit of creative solutions to complex challenges.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Hydrologic Science and Engineering from Colorado School of Mines
- Bachelor of Arts in Geology from Whitman College
- Water Environment Federation (WEF) Water Leadership Institute (WLI) Graduate
- Professional Engineer (PE)
Affiliations
- American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Driven to improve the human and environmental condition, Andrew has a strong background in sustainable, renewable, and efficient energy practices. He has experience performing industrial energy and water use assessments, analyzing utility data to quantify energy- and cost-saving strategies through benchmarking and modeling, and interfacing with community members, utilities, and contractors to support climate and energy goals while improving equity and resilience.
At Brendle Group, Andrew supports a wide range of energy and water projects throughout their planning, implementation, and evaluation phases. He approaches problem solving through a lens that acknowledges the interconnectedness of people and the environment.
During his time as a Research Assistant at Colorado State University (CSU), Andrew led CSU’s Industrial Assessment Center and aided in the development of a novel, high-efficiency, rapid vaccine production device to support future pandemic resilience efforts. Given the breadth of his engineering and program management experience, Andrew responds rapidly to evolving project needs.
In addition to Andrew’s adept technical background, he also has a deep appreciation for the important role people play in identifying and implementing sustainable solutions to complex environmental challenges. His communication and facilitation skills help build consensus and galvanize collaboration – essential elements for successful project outcomes.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University
- Engineer in Training (EIT)
Christiane is passionate about helping clients integrate sustainability into business practices to drive long-term value and increase resilience. Her repertoire includes life cycle analysis, greenhouse gas accounting, recycling technologies, process flow development, project management, and stakeholder engagement. She is an effective communicator and fluent in English, German and Spanish.
Christiane applies her analytical mindset and engineering skills to several topics at Brendle Group. She has experience in developing sustainability strategies, performing comprehensive analyses, and process optimization. At Brendle Group, Christi serves in a cross-functional coordination role in the business development team and supports the delivery of meaningful data-driven project results.
Prior to Brendle Group, Christiane worked in management consulting, helping private sector clients develop strategic frameworks for business growth and transformation. She also supported a Fortune 500 business deconsolidation project, responsible for the separation of contracts and employees. During her time as an academic research assistant, Christiane developed a novel recycling process for mineral fibers in the cement industry.
In her free time Christiane enjoys the outdoors and works on her fermentation skills.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Process Engineering from Montan University, Austria
- Bachelor of Science in Process Engineering from Montan University, Austria
- Management Certificate from the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland
With a keen sense of economic impacts, Terry has a strong background in utility data analysis, energy efficiency strategies, and greenhouse gas accounting. He has extensive experience navigating utility programs and processes, developing and implementing renewable energy strategies, developing measurement and verification techniques, and managing energy efficiency programs across a range of building types. Terry is uniquely able to communicate complex technical and financial information to a broad audience to influence decision making, buy-in, and impactful project outcomes.
At Brendle Group, Terry supports community energy planning, data management and analytics, cost-benefit analyses, and energy and sustainability dashboard development. Terry uses his technical and fiscal expertise to build and inform the business case for increased energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and sustainable development.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Boston University
- Certified Energy Manager
- Engineer in Training (EIT)
Andrea brings over a decade of experience in transportation electrification and alternative fuels to the Brendle Group team. She uses her planning and fleet transition experience to help guide and problem-solve with jurisdictions to help them achieve an affordable, equitable, and reliable zero-emission transportation system for everyone. She’s facilitated EV roadmap planning for communities at the local, state, and territory level, as well as for private sector fleets.
Prior to joining Brendle Group, Andrea served as a program manager for the Electrification Coalition in Washington D.C. where she led teams in developing comprehensive transportation electrification plans that accelerate electrified mobility adoption and charging infrastructure development. She’s facilitated the development of broad coalitions of diverse stakeholders to define and achieve emissions reduction goals. Her expertise includes implementing alternative fuels, advanced vehicle adoption, and fuel-saving strategies – through data analysis, grant reporting, and coordinated events.
In her free time, Andrea is an avid reader, hiker, and gardener.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Environmental Science from the University of New Haven
- Bachelor of Science in Biology from Purdue University
- Geographical Information System Certificate from the University of New Haven
Zakri applies his expertise in technical engineering, data analysis, and applied research to support a variety of projects at Brendle Group. He is skilled at data analytics and visualization, developing training and reference resources, building cost estimates, reviewing project plans and specifications for compliance, and processing energy, water, and climate data for baselining, business as usual projections, and scenario analysis. Zakri is particularly adept at reviewing complex technical information, identifying key themes, and summarizing the information so it can be used to create actionable project outcomes.
Zakri is passionate about projects that cross the intersections of water, energy, and climate to generate meaningful emissions reductions and resource conservation. He prioritizes strategies founded in data-driven solutions accessible to all by implementing one water solutions and best practices and developing easy to use and accessible analysis tools that empower client decision making. He constantly strives to incorporate new perspectives and industry innovations.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering from Colorado State University
- Engineer in Training (EIT)
Affiliations
- American Water Works Association
Dan is a principal and the Chief Operating Officer at Brendle Group responsible for ensuring execution of all projects to scope and budget in addition to overseeing all legal, financial, and operational processes within the company. Dan brings to Brendle Group 30 years of experience in consulting, engineering, project management, strategic and financial planning and analysis, operations and business performance, corporate management, software integration, and mergers and acquisitions. Dan has a depth of experience spanning from Fortune 500 companies to technology startups and engineering consulting firms.
Over his career and work with Brendle Group, Dan has been involved in numerous renewable energy development projects, renewable product development opportunities, and economic and financing analysis for a wide array of renewable studies. He has a passion for and experience with deep energy renovation and new development of green buildings. Dan brings his technology background to Brendle Group and supports data analytics and quality control processes as part of Brendle Group’s program management across all projects.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University
Becca has a strong background in energy efficiency measures for industrial customers though her experience at the Colorado State University Industrial Assessment Center. Also, she has been involved in researching and designing a commercial refrigeration heat recovery system that successfully brought industrial energy efficiency principles to a small commercial scale. At Brendle group, she employs her expertise to assess and quantify energy efficiency opportunities for commercial and institutional customers. She also applies energy efficiency principles on a larger scale for climate action planning, greenhouse gas accounting, and community energy planning, as well as analysis of renewable energy feasibility across these projects.
Outside of Brendle Group, Becca puts her degree in Zoology to work volunteering at a local wildlife rehabilitation center.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Colorado State University
- Engineer in Training (EIT)
At Brendle Group, Van focuses on process efficiency through data management automation as well by supporting GHG accounting, analysis, and protocol compliance. Van has long been interested in the intersection of environmental science and economics, and believes in taking a systems-based approach to solving complex problems. He thrives on helping clients see the big picture by using his skills to craft adaptive solutions built on data-driven insights.
Van is a sustainability consultant with 3 years of experience in data analysis and automation. Before joining Brendle Group, Van worked for the Colorado Secretary of State’s Business Intelligence Center. There, he focused on building ETL (extract, transform, load) processes to make government data publicly accessible and usable via their website, data.colorado.gov. This work also included organizing the Go Code Colorado challenge, where Coloradans compete to build digital applications and analyses that utilize government data to improve Colorado businesses.
One of Van’s main motivations to create sustainable change is his passion for the outdoors. He is an avid skier, runner, and backpacker, so wants to do his part to protect the natural environment.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Arts and Science in Economics and Ecosystem Sustainability from Colorado State University
Idalia is a recent graduate from the University of Missouri- Kansas City with two degrees – Urban Planning and Design and Spanish foreign language. As an urban planning student, Idalia gained experience working on community revitalization projects. She is passionate about helping deprived individuals find a healthy and safe place to live.
At Brendle Group, Idalia is supporting a variety of projects where she helps with planning analysis and engagement. When Idalia is not balancing project work and school assignments, she enjoys gardening and learning about plants.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Arts in Urban Planning & Design from the University of Missouri- Kansas City
- Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Language and Literature from the University of Missouri- Kansas City
Awards
- Kansas City Chapter of the Missouri American Planning Association (KC-APA) – 2021 for demonstrating a commitment to Urban Planning and academic achievement
A skilled communicator and facilitator, Grace has experience in developing programs related to building electrification and climate change resilience and adaptation. Most recently, Grace helped develop Boulder County’s first-ever extreme heat emergency response plan and public outreach toolkit, both of which had an equity focus. She also has experience working within municipal government co-leading regional collaborations on public health, climate change, and air quality monitoring.
Before her planning career, Grace worked for more than a decade as a public radio journalist in Colorado reporting on energy, the environment, and climate change. Much of her work involved taking complex topics and translating them into compelling stories for a general audience. In 2020, Grace received a Ted Scripps Environmental Journalism Fellowship which she used to study data analysis and visualization at the University of Colorado Boulder.
As an urban planner, Grace is committed to reducing the impact of climate change on disproportionately impacted communities. She is passionate about communicating technical information in a relatable, easy-to-understand way for general audiences.
Professional Qualifications
- Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Colorado (Denver)
- Bachelor of Arts in History from Bryn Mawr College
Affiliations
- American Planning Association (APA)
Dan is Brendle Group’s bookkeeper with over thirteen years of experience working in business management systems and accounting. He oversees Brendle Group’s time tracking system and manages invoicing for project work. He’s an expert at optimizing accounting systems, building business efficiencies, and maintaining financial accounts and records.
Dan’s professional background is both domestic and international, having served in the military and in private sector manufacturing. With this experience, Dan is adept at empathizing with people from all over the world to understand their challenges. He believes collaboration can lead to the most impactful and equitable solutions on a global scale.
Outside of Brendle Group, Dan enjoys cycling and exploring the beautiful pedestrian pathways of Northern Colorado. He feels each ride is a chance to connect with both nature and the community. Dan believes that cycling is not only a fun way to get around but also a smart and sustainable approach to the daily commute.
Professional Qualifications
- Associate Degree in Financial Administration from Des Moines Area Community College
Wendy brings a diverse range of experience to Brendle Group with over 20 years of work in communications, illustration, community outreach, business development, and project management supporting organizations and communities along the Front Range. She is passionate about sustainability and the built environment has had the opportunity to work alongside the Brendle Group team in various ways for over a decade.
At Brendle Group, Wendy supports our operations team by coordinating administrative duties in the areas of facility operations, event and meeting planning, travel and scheduling, and recruitment and human resources. She has a keen sense for connecting the dots between people, projects, and big picture goals. Wendy can be found assisting on projects, reports, and presentations as well as coordinating between internal staff and external clients and stakeholders.
Outside of Brendle Group, Wendy enjoys spending time with her family and friends, hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. She and her husband also run a local history tours business and enjoy meeting visitors from around the country alongside local residents.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design from Buffalo State University
Katie is a gifted marketing strategist with twelve years of experience in marketing communication, brand building, behavior change, consumer insights, service transformation, and marketing analytics. Her expertise runs the gamut of marketing programs, from developing and executing marketing strategies for nationwide media campaigns to organizing grassroots communication efforts. She’s skilled at understanding each client’s unique needs and customizing a marketing approach to achieve critical program outcomes.
Katie specializes in marketing for sustainability impact and has extensive experience working with clients to achieve their sustainability goals in alignment with larger operations needs. She also has traditional marketing expertise including managing marketing budgets, facilitating radio and video commercial recordings; developing periodical newsletters; and coordinating with public relations staff for deliberate and targeted media impact. She’s well versed in content management systems, search engine optimization (SEO), customer relationship management (CRM), copywriting and storytelling, social media engagement, and marketing automation.
Her repertoire includes exceptional communication skills, creative approaches for inbound marketing, comprehensive market research and analysis, and empowering content.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Marketing with a Specialization in Global Sustainability from the University of Colorado (Denver) – Anticipated Graduation Fall 2023
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Marketing from Colorado State University
- Bachelor of Arts in English from Colorado State University
- Certified Technical Editor, American Copy Editors Society
- Community-Based Social Marketing Certification
Affiliations
- American Marketing Association
Natalia’s experience working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds is an asset to Brendle Group. She has a gift and passion for connecting with undeserved communities to inform impactful project outcomes for clients.
One of the highlights early in her career was the design and implementation of a community engagement project for the City of Fort Collins, CO ensuring that Spanish-speaking residents of immigrant backgrounds have equal access to information regarding public utility initiatives. The success of the program was in her ability to skillfully establish relationships and quickly build rapport with the underserved community. Data gathering techniques moved beyond a yes/no or multiple-choice response to provide qualitative data from storytelling that could be distilled into meaningful information regarding benefits and barriers for meaningful change.
Natalia has also done research through Colorado State University using multi-site qualitative analysis to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted Spanish-dominant working Latina mothers in the State of Colorado. Her skills include cultural competency, communication, research, and awareness building.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Arts in Ethnic Studies and Women and Gender Studies from Colorado State University
Lynn contributes seven years of experience in urban planning and meaningful community engagement to the Brendle Group team. She uses a systems-thinking approach and her past experience working for a local government to help communities accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices through equitable planning and program implementation, recognizing that community involvement, expertise, and ownership is critical to the success of any sustainable plan or program. In her role at the City of Lakewood, she gained extensive experience coordinating with other Colorado communities and agencies on regional and statewide sustainability and climate issues, including greenhouse gas emission accounting and climate vulnerability assessments.
Her academic and professional background provide her with technical knowledge in a number of sustainability subject areas, including sustainability indicator development and tracking, climate resiliency, zero waste, and clean transportation systems. She uses this expertise and a passion for community-driven planning to identify strategies that communities and organizations can take to make lasting change.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Urban & Environmental Planning from Arizona State University
- Bachelor of Science in Urban Planning from Arizona State University
- Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability from Arizona State University
- American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Member
- Envision Sustainability Professional
Affiliations
- American Planning Association
- NextCity Vanguards Alumni
Zach is a leader in sustainable transportation with more than 14 years of experience in public charging infrastructure, fleet analysis, equitable community charging, utility program design, funding and financing options, community engagement, and sustainability planning.
Zach’s background in electric vehicles includes work on the utility side with Xcel Energy and with the State of Colorado working within the Colorado Energy Office (CEO). He managed Xcel Energy’s Colorado commercial clean transportation programs, which offers Brendle Group clients unique support in navigating utility program and rebate offerings as well as utility energy supply for charging infrastructure. At CEO, Zach developed and managed grant programs for EV charging across Colorado including the Charge Ahead Colorado program, Fast-Charging Corridors, and Fast-Charging Plazas programs. He also oversaw the state’s efforts to develop an EV education and awareness campaign. Zach’s experience spans across community charging hubs, public charging, workplaces, fleets, multifamily buildings, small businesses, and utility owned and operated public fast chargers.
Outside of work Zach is a certified yoga instructor and likes maintaining his practice. He also enjoys baking, travelling, taking long walks, and spending lots of time with his partner, dog, and cat.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Sustainable Development Practice from Regis University
- Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Regis University
- GRI Sustainability Reporting Certification, ISOS Group
With over seven years of experience working for local government and non-profits, Imogen enjoys working with clients to develop goals and design place-based initiatives that improve sustainability practices, decrease carbon emissions, and deliver tangible quality of life benefits. She recognizes the need to focus on community priorities while leveraging regional, state, and national partnerships to amplify the impact of local action.
Imogen has an international sustainability lens, having begun her career in the United Kingdom developing community-owned solar installations in inner-city areas. She also has Mountain West experience, having served as Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Durango for 5 years. During that time she gained valuable insight into best practices for collaborating with diverse internal and external stakeholders as well as managing a comprehensive municipal sustainability program.
At Brendle Group, Imogen serves as a technical expert in climate mitigation and resilience, composting and waste reduction programs, municipal equity, electric vehicle readiness, and community outreach.
In her free time, Imogen is a competitive trail runner, enthusiastic mountain biker, and experimental bread baker.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Science in Geography from the University of New Mexico
- Master of Science (undergraduate) in Environmental Geography from the University of Bristol, UK
Theresa’s expertise is at the cross section of environmental engineering and community engagement. This empowers her to make meaningful connections between diverse audiences and the complex systems embedded in sustainability practices. She specializes in engaging with underrepresented communities and youth.
Her master’s work focused on exploring the innate capabilities of nature to process pollution for sustainable remediation. Outcomes from this work highlighted the importance of considering solutions from all angles. As an outside technical expert approaching a problem, engineering solutions must align with community needs. This experience informs Theresa’s engagement approach – listening first to understand the key issues, barriers to solutions, and resources available. This insight can then be used to inform solutions that catalyze meaningful change and elevate local voices.
Theresa is passionate about integrating justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) principles into both her personal and professional life. She has experience working with underrepresented Denver youth to educate and empower sustainable actions. She also served as a program coordinator for the Colorado Water Center Fellows Program at Colorado State University, engaging with historically underrepresented undergraduate students to provide access, resources, and community as they pursue water-related careers.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering from Colorado State University
- Master of Science in Environmental Engineering from Colorado State University
- Engineer in Training (EIT)
Jason has a long track record of taking strategic business goals from concept through implementation and has more than 15 years of experience leading a wide variety of business operations and sustainability projects. He has deployed critical software and hardware projects, overseen day-to-day financial operations, managed commercial facilities, and led large workplace changes. He also has significant experience with green buildings – having led a multi-million-dollar, LEED Platinum construction project, overseen microgrid and renewable energy installations, deployed bi-directional electric vehicle charging stations at commercial facilities, facilitated healthy building certifications, launched waste reduction campaigns, and supported the integration of smart building technology.
Jason has extensive expertise in managing sustainable business operations. Prior to joining Brendle Group, he served as the Chief Operating Officer of The Alliance Center, a coworking and event space that serves over 170 sustainability-focused organizations annually. Under his leadership, The Alliance Center received numerous awards for its sustainability achievements, including being recognized as a showcase project by the Department of Energy’s Better Buildings initiative.
Jason developed a deep appreciation of the environment while growing up in the mountains of Colorado and gained an understanding of the world’s sustainability challenges while working in fair trade and microfinance. He is passionate about advancing long-term solutions to the climate crisis that take into account people and the planet; he is grateful to be able to do just that at Brendle Group.
When not at work, Jason enjoys spending time with his wife and three young children, preferably in the mountains in his native state.
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Finance emphasis from the University of Colorado, Boulder
- Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute
- LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP O+M) from the United States Green Building Chapter
- Salesforce Certified Administrator
Julie brings 25+ years of experience in executive leadership, business operations, project management, people management and culture, training and adult education, leadership development and coaching, organizational change, and communications. Her experience spans startups, as well as global Fortune companies. As Senior Director of People & Communications at Brendle Group, Julie is responsible for employee life cycle management, fostering justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) practices, and providing leadership to the People & Communications Team.
Julie has held Chief Operating Officer roles at a high growth edtech company, as well as a software and engineering firm specializing in microgrids and the management of distributed energy resources. As a Project Management Professional® and a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources, her expertise lies at the intersection of people and operations with emphasis on implementing organizational systems supporting process efficiencies, maximizing talent, and evolving positive organizational cultures. She has served on the board of directors for Colorado C3E (Clean Energy, Education and Empowerment Initiative), Crossroads Safehouse, and as a governor-appointed member of the Colorado Workforce Development board.
A Colorado native, Julie enjoys spending time with her family doing “all things Colorado.” Outside of Brendle Group, she is principal of Shine! Catalyst Consulting and an Organizational Development Consultant at Employers Council.
Professional Qualifications
- Master of Education and Human Development from The George Washington University
- Bachelor of Science in Business in Human Resources and Entrepreneurship from the University of Colorado
- Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Colorado
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Senior Human Resources Professional (SPHR)
We’re passionate about sustainability and foster an environment in which our team members can thrive, pursue their interests, and grow personally and professionally by:
- Encouraging work-life balance
- Helping our team grow professionally and personally through a mentorship program
- Emphasizing employee wellness
- Encouraging community involvement and volunteerism
- Encouraging ongoing training and professional growth
- Incentivizing sustainability practices at home
Each year we donate services to nonprofit organizations that lack the in-house expertise or resources to get started with sustainability. Examples of services provided in the past include building assessments, strategic sustainability planning, and training. Brendle Group also supports non-profit and educational organizations with grants for projects or initiatives that align with the company’s vision and mission. To apply for free consulting services or a charitable donation, follow the directions in this form.
“Brendle Group truly puts the principles of sustainability into action in their own business and this sets them apart. Fort Collins is lucky to have Brendle Group located here, supporting our community’s work to create a better future.”