Offshore Wind Lunch and Learn Events

Elena Brewer, PhD is a Professor in the Electrical Engineering Technology department at SUNY Erie Community College. She received her PhD in Physics from SUNY-University at Buffalo. She has over 15 years of teaching experience at the community college and at the university level. Her interests include renewable energy, nanotechnology, electrical engineering technology and physics.

Daniel Montante is the President and co-founder of Montante Solar. A veteran of the renewable energy industry, Daniel has overseen the company's rapid growth, solidifying its position as a key player in the New York solar market. Daniel is responsible for leading the company and providing a clear strategic direction. He has assembled a top-tier team of engineering, construction, and finance professionals who have built some of the most noteworthy solar projects in New York. Daniel is also President of the New York Solar Energy Industries Association (NYSEIA), the only statewide membership and trade association dedicated solely to advancing solar energy in New York State. He also serves on the Board of Directors at Artpark & Company and is Vice President of the Torn Space Theater.

Elena Brewer, PhD is a Professor in the Electrical Engineering Technology department at SUNY Erie Community College. She received her PhD in Physics from SUNY-University at Buffalo. She has over 15 years of teaching experience at the community college and at the university level. Her interests include renewable energy, nanotechnology, electrical engineering technology and physics.

Natalie Terhaar is the Community Engagement Manager for National Grid Ventures and Community Offshore Wind. In her role, she administers grants and creates programming for the community, specifically in the areas of STEM education, environment, and sustainability. Natalie holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from D’Youville College. She is active with the Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship, was a Leadership Buffalo graduate in 2020, KidWind Advisory Member in 2023, a UB Leadership Accelerator participant in 2024, and on the fundraising committee for Hospice Buffalo. 

Ben Ballard, Ph.D. is a Professor of Renewable Energy at SUNY Morrisville and has served as the Director of the Renewable Energy Training Center since 2008. He holds a B.S. and M.S. in Forest Resources Management from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), an M.S. in Statistics from Syracuse University, and a Ph.D. in Forest Ecosystem Science and Applications from SUNY ESF. Over the past 15 years, Dr. Ballard led the development of the Renewable Energy A.A.S. and B.Tech. degree programs at SUNY Morrisville and developed and taught over 17 college courses. Dr. Ballard is currently leading the SUNY Morrisville team’s Offshore Wind Technician Training as part of SUNY’s OWTI.

Natalie Terhaar is the Community Engagement Manager for National Grid Ventures and Community Offshore Wind. In her role, she administers grants and creates programming for the community, specifically in the areas of STEM education, environment, and sustainability. Natalie holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from D’Youville College. She is active with the Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship, was a Leadership Buffalo graduate in 2020, KidWind Advisory Member in 2023, a UB Leadership Accelerator participant in 2024, and on the fundraising committee for Hospice Buffalo.