Warren, OH – BRITE Energy Innovators is pleased to announce the appointment of four
new board members, amid significant growth for BRITE and the startup companies we
partner with to provide positive change for our Valley beyond.
“We couldn’t be happier to have the guidance of these hard-working members on our
team,” said Rick Stockburger, President and CEO of BRITE. “At BRITE, we continuously
strive to obtain a board of directors that truly represents all facets of the energy industry,
including government, nonprofit, corporate, and academia. This past year has proven once
again that the nation has its eye on the Voltage Valley. Our new board members are poised
to guarantee that BRITE’s impact keeps growing, both here in Ohio and beyond.”
The four new board members began their three-year terms with BRITE effective January 1st
of 2023. The new board members are:
Chuck George, CEO, Hapco Inc.
His take on being part of BRITE:
“As a board member at BRITE and angel investor, I am grateful for the opportunity to impart
knowledge and experience that will advance BRITE’s mission of helping the next generation
of energy entrepreneurs. BRITE plays a significant role in leveraging connections to attract,
keep, and build on the talent and opportunities here in the Mahoning Valley.”
Michael Hartley, President, Swing State Strategies
His take on being part of BRITE:
“As a son of an autoworker in Northeast Ohio, I am personally committed to the future of
the auto industry in Ohio. Serving on BRITE’s board is an amazing opportunity to be
involved with the leading edge of technology advancements in the auto industry. The
Voltage Valley and State of Ohio has a huge opportunity ahead of it and BRITE is fighting on
the front lines for our future.”
Tim Petrey, Managing Partner of HD Davis CPAs, LLC
His take on being part of BRITE:
“I’m thrilled to have been asked to join the board at BRITE Energy Innovators. I’m extremely
passionate about supporting the continued evolution of our area and looking forward to
contributing to BRITE’s mission. Our community has unbelievable opportunities in front of
us, and as long as we all stay diligent to the task at hand, we can see our area return to its
successes of the past. The Voltage Valley movement is far more broad than electric
vehicles. The Voltage Valley movement represents a spark of change in how we view our
area. We can be a huge resource to our nation’s continued adaptation to the new demands
of our world. “
Alexa Sweeney-Blackann, Past President and CEO, Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC, Current
Consultant, #1 Cochran Automotive
Her take on joining the BRITE board:
“As a consultant for #1 Cochran and member of BRITE’s board, I am looking forward to
making introductions and continuing our shared commitment to supporting the EV future
in the Mahoning Valley. As the only energy incubator in Ohio, BRITE is helping to develop
great new technologies to prepare us to be a leader in EV future and beyond.”
Since its founding in 2010, BRITE’s Board of Directors has provided the organization
with critical operational guidance throughout its offering of services to energy tech
startups in Ohio.
