Meet the family
Owner CEO and Master Electrician Derek started the company in 2011, using a decade of electrical experience with commercial and residential firms. Responsible for setting the standard of excellence here at NWES, ensuring that our teams build systems better than “to code” by using the best, not simply adequate, methods and products in all our projects. Derek has built strong relationships with the local jurisdictions and utilities, not one to sit back and wait for the industry to keep up with where he thinks it should be. He’s held multiple classes at our offices, teaching inspectors and utility professionals about the latest technological advances, particularly his knowledge of the interconnection of Tesla’s Powerwall battery system.
Meet the team
We all live in Washington State; we are here to make it better than when we found it and share our success with you, our neighbors, friends, and family. Get to know who you might be working with and who will help electrify your world!
Energy
Ariunkhuu Munkhbat
Journey Level Service Electrician | EnergyI am from Mongolia. As a Journeyman Service Electrician, I enjoy working out, playing soccer, and spending time with my kids. I appreciate how NWES and Derek take care of its employees and customers. My superpower would be to make every child safe and happy. My dream solar installation would be off-grid in Hawaii on my farm. A fact about me is that I started high-school in Seattle with no English. My electrical invention would be an electric airplane.
Denis Vasilyuk
Solar Apprentice | EnergyI am from Washington and as a Solar Apprentice, I find making electricity from the sun interesting which is what inspired me to join. I enjoy playing Call of Duty with friends and hanging out with my wife. At NWES, the crews are fun, and everyone is friendly. If I could have a superpower, it would be super speed. Antarctica would be my dream installation location as it's always sunny and doesn't get too hot there. My solar-powered invention would be solar panels that follow the sun so they’re running efficiently all day and we could install more since it won’t matter what side of the roof we will put them on
David Ramirez
Journey Level Service Electrician | EnergyI am originally from Los Angeles and as a Service Electrician, I sought a better work-life balance, which I found at NWES. Outside work, I like chillin' with my wife and dogs as well camping, mountain biking, and disc golfing. I enjoy watching sports. I'm a LA Dodgers fan and LAkers fan! My favorite aspect of NWES is the camaraderie and involvement with the newest products in renewable energies. My super power would be flying because it sounds fun. I would install solar in a 3rd world country for communities that don't have access to electricity. Or in Guatemala where my father is migrated from years ago. I went there a couple of years ago and drove through a few places where there wasn't electricity. A quirky fact about me is that I can blow bubbles with my tongue. My solar-powered invention would be a lighter solar panel that is just as efficient as today's panels. I think with will make installations quicker and easier. I am also a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu.
Evie Junior
Journey Level Electrician | EnergyI am from Bronx, NY. I'm now a Journeyman Electrician at NWES after deciding to pursue a different career path. I enjoy reading, disc golf, archery, and working out. Always learning and growing is what I appreciate about NWES. If I could have a superpower, it would be teleportation. My dream destination for a solar installation would be Iceland for its scenic beauty. And a cool electrical invention would be a Smart EMT bender, digitally input what degrees of bends you want in conduit.
Stephen Cole
Journey Level Lead Solar Installer | EnergyI am originally from Pensacola, Florida. As a Solar Lead and what inspired me to join is to contribute to renewable infrastructure in Washington. Eating cheese and taking naps are among my favorite pastimes. I appreciate the fun atmosphere and supportive team at NWES. My superpower would be Spidey-sense. Precognition too, but only the useful info comes through. If I could install solar anywhere, well, anywhere works as long as its on roofs. The most densely populated the better for the relief on the power grid. A quirky fact about me is that I can touch my nose with my tongue. And my electrical invention would be an incredible energy dense battery, the magic bullet for the renewable energy industry!
Ian Vautrin
Solar Apprentice | EnergyI am from Seattle, Washington and I am a solar electrical apprentice. Outside of work I like to snowboard up at Stevens Pass. My favorite thing about working at Northwest Electric and Solar is that, with no experience, everyone was super helpful with answering questions and getting me up to speed. My one superpower would be to fly. And I would like to install solar in Italy one day and hit the beach afterwards. My solar-powered invention would be a high-speed solar powered rail train.
Teemu Karvonen
Energy Operations Manager | EnergyI am originally from Finland and in Washington I live in Kirkland. I joined Northwest Electric and Solar because I wanted to join an ambitious company that strives to be the best, and that offers a encouraging work environment. NWES checked all the boxes! I like to travel and be active outdoors. I also love to go see comedy shows, play poker tournaments and learn new board games. And hang out with friends of course! My favorite thing at NWES is that we have a great team of people who work here. They make the day to day feel a lot more enjoyable and purposeful. My superpower would be to reverse, stop, or speed up time. I would install solar panels in 3rd world countries or places that struggle with environmental disasters. They need it the most and often in extremely dire situations. A quirky fact about myself is that I used to be a huge nerd about video games when I was younger, and hosted different themed LAN-parties. One notorious LAN was in camping tents outside in the backyard. My new solar-powered invention would be the Solar Boost Pro V1. It would be a device that stores solar power and that you can touch, and immediately gain more energy. It might shock you though, the disclaimer says "No risk, no reward".
Cameron Smith
Journey Level Electrician | EnergyI am from Savannah, Georgia and I work at Northwest Electric and Solar as a Journey Level Electrician. Outside of work I enjoy playing guitar and bass, gardening, roller skating, and learning Italian. The best thing about working at NWES is the camaraderie. My one superpower would be teleportation. And if I could install solar anywhere it would be in New Zealand or Italy. A funny fact about me that my coworkers may not know is that I roller skate. My new electrical inventions would definitely something that can locate a wire instantly and where it is terminated/where it is derived from.
Blake Berlin
Apprentice Solar Installer | EnergyI am from Kenmore, Washington and I am solar installer at Northwest Electric and Solar. I joined because I was looking for a good career, decided I wanted to be an electrician and the renewable energy sector of that seemed perfect. Outside of work I like going hiking and camping. My favorite thing about working at NWES is that we always strive for high quality work so I’m always proud of what I do. My one superpower would be the ability to fly. If I could install solar anywhere it would be in Hawaii because it’s warm and sunny. A fun fact about me is that I play video games and my solar-powered invention would be solar powered roads that charge vehicles.
Shaun Washington
Journey Level Electrician | EnergyI am from Seattle, Washington and I am a Lead 02 Electrician on one of the Solar Crews. I became an electrician became a long time family friend needed an apprentice so I decided to make the switch from delivering furniture to being an 02 apprentice… it was the best decision I could have made. One of my favorite things to do outside of work is hang out with my 3 sons amd game we are all Gamers. Out side of that I go Disc Golfing, Race R/C cars and I Golf. I really like working at NWES because I am challenged, everyday to think outside the box and it keeps me learning, teaching and growing as a person. Another really big plus side to working at NWES is I get to make the world a better place one house at a time with each and every solar/ energy storage system my crew and I install. And I get to tell my kids I'm a Power Ranger who harnesses the power of the sun haha. My one superpower would be teleportation. I can see it now… trips to Stoneway would be a breeze! A fun fact about myself is that I can juggle.
Max Usen
Solar Installer | EnergyI am from Seattle, Washington, and I became a solar installer for Northwest Electric and Solar because I wanted to learn about electricity. Outside of work, I like camping, hiking, exploring, metal fabrication, and working on cars. My favorite thing about working at NWES is that my co-workers are awesome!
Paul Brunt
Lead Solar Installer | EnergyI'm from the US/Mexico, and I am a Lead Solar Installer. Outside of work, I like snowboarding, soccer, hiking, and gaming. I love working at Northwest Electric and Solar because we are helping save the world through clean solar energy! If I could have one superpower, it would be teleportation. And if given the choice, I'd want to install solar panels all over the world. A quirky fact about myself that my coworkers might not know is that I am a wizard. My new solar-powered invention would be a transparent solar panel that makes clear glass that can be powered. And I like turtles.
Anton Bingham
Energy Roof Lead | EnergyI am from Shoreline, Washington, and I am an energy roof lead. I wanted to get into the electrical trade, so I joined Northwest Electric and Solar. Outside work, I like running, hiking, and playing the guitar! My favorite thing about working at NWES is being a part of a growing company & seeing improvements throughout my time here.
Michael Rostad
Project Management Supervisor | EnergyI am from Santa Clarita, California, and I am the Project Management Supervisor here at NWES. I was inspired to join out of my desire to provide clean energy and reduce our carbon footprint. Outside of work I enjoy mountain biking, playing with my two boys, gaming, and woodworking. My favorite thing about working at NWES is the small company vibes/company culture. My one superpower would be teleportation so I can see all the sites around the world. My ideal solar panel installation would be in the mountains on unique homes with beautiful views. My solar-powered invention would be no penetration attachments for all roof types and pitches/cheap flush mount panels.
Cory Bowman
Site Surveyor | EnergyLiving in Everett, Washington after moving from California last year. Cory is the Site Assessor/ Surveyor. I have been in the solar industry for over four years working in numerous roles within the Industry ranging from Marketing, Permitting, Sales, and Data Management. A big draw with taking this role was to gain an even greater view of the solar industry to better understand ways in which we can retrofit our energy grid. I truly believe Solar and Battery technology is key to creating a more sustainable tomorrow. Outside of work I am a hyper creative and embark on numerous projects, some may call me a Hobby Junkie. My main passions are in Djing, Music Production, Fire Performing/ Flow Arts, or board/ card games with close friends. My favorite part of working for NWES is the close knit community and office environment created here. Each employee brings such a unique perspective and skill set to this team which allows NWES to truly maximize its inner team work flow. I have always dreamed about working with Native American Tribes to Install solar on their lands to provide consistent jobs and energy independence to their communities. Natives already have a strong connection to the land and harnessing the power of the sun further empowers this ideology. It will help mitigate the need to allow environmentally detrimental projects on these sacred places. I have two cats named Hades and Persephone who are litter mates! I always dreamed of creating Solar Roofs for Cars, Trucks, and buses to help create an alternative energy source for EV vehicles! You never grow old as long as you keep growing, and I am truly thankful to learn and evolve in this new role at NWES!!!
Office
Jeramy Harstad
Office Administrator | OfficeUSA born and raised. As the Office Administrator, I pursue my hobby of being outside as much as possible! Working for someone I believe in makes all the difference for me.
Cheryl Sorensen
Accountant | OfficeOriginally from Turner, Oregon. As the Bookkeeper/Payroll at NWES, I am passionate about being outdoors, whether hiking, Kayaking, driving my Jeep to the middle of nowhere I'm very passionate about being outside...all the time. I love the environment, and the people I work with. I love what we do for the customers. My super power would be the ability to fly. I would install solar panels on my land! Think it would be cool to live 100% off grid. My solar-powered invention would have to be a total camping gear package - set up for Overlanding. “If you don't get lost, there's a chance you may never be found” – Unknown.
Manuel Larrain
Marketing Manager | OfficeI am from Santiago, Chile. As the Marketing Manager, and as someone who studied business and sustainability, I believe in using renewable energy to build a brighter future. I love to go on walks with my fiancée Natasha and our dog Archie. I also enjoy biking along the Burke-Gilman trail and hiking with my friends and family. Summer is Chilean BBQ season here in Washington, so you'll always find me near a grill when the sun's out! My favorite thing about working at NWES is my coworkers and our clients. We are partnering to build a better future for ourselves, our families, and the Washington community. We all love having clean air to breathe and clean water to drink, and we are making it easier and cheaper to use more electricity to power everything that makes our lives work! I would install a large solar array at my grandpa’s house by the beach in Chile. I know he would love to have unlimited energy from the sun so we can always stay connected. It would be great to have solar-powered clothing that can charge electronics in your pockets. This would greatly help my partner, who's phone is always low on battery.
Jacob Field
Service Project Manager | OfficeI am from Washington and I work as the Service Project Manager at Northwest Electric and Solar. I joined because it looked like an amazing place to work at as an electrician. My hobbies include going hiking and relaxing with my son and 3 dogs on the weekends. My favorite thing about NWES is the support you receive from everyone and MARINERS GAMES and the annual Christmas party! My one superpower would be Super Strength. And If I could install solar anywhere it would be on my house to offset my energy usage. A quirky fact about me is that I am left handed and have a rock stuck in my head. My electrical invention would be creating a system of free energy accessible to everyone.
Ian Robinson
Energy Program Manager | OfficeI am from Marysville, Washington and I am the Energy Program Manager at Northwest Electric and Solar. I joined when I was fresh out of college and wanted to get into the solar industry - wanted a job that I felt could make a greater impact. Outside of work I love spending time with my family, football, basketball, and exercise. My favorite thing about working at NWES is that the company is always striving to be better. My one superpower would be super speed. If I could install solar anywhere would be Here! This is where I was raised, and I like making an impact in my community. A funny fact about me is that I got stranded on a river with some friends and had to be picked up by search and rescue. My new solar-powered invention would be reliable and affordable solar powered vehicles, would eliminate virtually all emissions from the transportation sector. Go Zags!
Giancarlo Angulo
Energy Project Manager | OfficeI am from Seattle, Washington, and I am an Energy Project Manager at Northwest Electric and Solar. Helping the environment while working in a science-related job really inspired me. I love learning, and this job keeps me constantly learning and using my brain. Outside of work, I like to cook and bake. I'm also really big into being active and working out regularly. I like to video game every now and then or go on walks/longboard rides. My favorite thing about working at NWES is the relationships I've created with my coworkers. We all share the same vision and push each other to be our best selves. If I could have one superpower, it would be memorizing all the information I come across. If I could install solar panels anywhere, I would want to install them in Chile as it's the best solar location in the world, or I would go to California because I love the sun. Lastly, if I could invent a new solar gadget, I would want to create a solar-powered drone or car. You could use solar-powered drones for a lot of different reasons.
Jacob Benzaquen
Energy Project Manager | OfficeI'm from Madison, WI, and I am an Energy Project Manager. What inspired me to join Northwest Electric and Solar is that they are one of the best-reviewed solar companies I have seen in a sea of bad ones. I also wanted to add to my knowledge coming from the O&M and Manufacturing side. Outside of work I enjoy creating maps, metal music, 3D modeling, and video games. My favorite thing about working at NWES is that everyone here genuinely seems to care about the work that they do, and making a difference in the world. My one superpower would be Teleportation/Flying and fun fact about me is that I have five younger sisters. My electrical invention would be a small rotary rooftop wind generator for residential properties.
Samantha Arredondo
Marketing Associate | OfficeMy name is Samantha and I'm originally from San Diego, born and raised. I am the marketing associate here at NWES. I’m excited to work with a company that aligned with my values, like NWES. Working at Northwest Electric and Solar allows me to make a meaningful impact while building a more sustainable future. Outside of work, I like to spend time with friends and family. I love spending time with my two children (dog and cat). I also enjoy cooking, thrifting, and creating art. I’m new to the area, so I’ve been having fun exploring what Washington has to offer! NWES is a team full of genuine and passionate people that inspire me to bring my best everyday. I love that NWES makes an effort to be connected to the community and that I get to be a part of it. If I had one super power, it would be able to teleport. With all this Seattle traffic, I would save a lot of time and gas. A fun, but not so fun fact, I am lactose intolerant. As a dairy lover, it keeps me on my toes. If you see our installers dancing on Tik Tok, it was my doing. You're welcome.
Jennifer Jordan
Office Trainee | OfficeBorn in Seattle, Washington, Jenni is an office intern at Northwest Electric and Solar, assisting marketing and sales efforts. Jenni is gaining experience to help contribute to a cleaner and sustainable future for our community and environment. Outside of work Jenni will be out exploring Washington's landscapes and competitive swimming. The integrity at NWES is what makes it so good to work here. Honesty goes a long way here and it shows in the everyday interactions between coworkers and customers. A superpower that would be fun to have is teleportation. I would install solar panels in El Salvador, this is because there is a lot of poverty that could be helped a lot by having cheap renewable energy from the sun!
Residential
Ian Crilly
Journey Level Electrician | ResidentialAs a Residential Electrician, I wanted to learn about solar and battery systems while improving my service and troubleshooting skills. Working at NWES means that everyday is a learning opportunity for me and I love that! Outside of work, I enjoy fishing and spending time with my girlfriend and our pets. I love playing the drums, guitar, and occasionally DJing. If I could have a superpower, it would be teleportation because traffic sucks! Japan would be where I'd like to install solar, with its culture and history, would be my dream destination. My solar-powered invention would be semi trucks that use solar energy, currently there are diesel hybrid semis but I want to make containers made of highly resistant solar panels that would charge battery packs inside the container that could connect to the truck system and improve mileage and power while the trucks are on the road!
Jeremy Voss
Residential Project Manager | ResidentialI am originally from New Jersey. As a Project Manager, I enjoy playing sports and working on old cars and comics. I value complete creative control over jobs I do! There’s always more than one way to do something I want anything with my name attached to look the best. If I change the narrative, I'd showcase the USA's capabilities on large scale solar. My invention would be a solar car that charges through motion and the sun so there's no need for a charging station! I love being an electrician I take pride in it and love the challenges on any given job and finding solutions to problems and creating a better outcome because of it
Adam Stryker
Residential Program Manager | ResidentialI am from Washington and I am the Residential Program Manager. I started work at Northwest Electric and Solar because I needed a job to support my family. My favorite thing about working at NWES is the environment and the camaraderie amongst the employees.
Robert Holzinger
Special Projects Manager | ResidentialBorn in Wyoming, moved to Colorado, California, Minnesota, then to Washington. Been here 25 years and I am the Special Projects Manager. What inspired me to join NWES is that there are big projects to do here and I have the skillset to help in that regards. Outside of work I love hanging out with my dog, Decatur. My favorite thing about working at Northwest Electric and Solar is working in remote locations and respect that I get for knowing that if I’m scheduled , it’ll get taken care of, regardless of what it is. Ex, apartment buildings, spec houses, custom houses, car chargers, etc.
Anthony Miller
Electrical Apprentice | ResidentialI am from Seattle and I work as an apprentice electrician at Northwest Electric and Solar. I joined because I wanted to be part of a growing company that values quality work. Outside of work I train and compete in MMA and Jiu-Jitsu. My favorite thing about working at NWES is learning new things and working with my coworkers. My one superpower would be to fly. And I would like to install solar on my house so I can reduce my electricity bill! A quirky fact about me is that I hate the sound when someone chews ice. My new solar-powered invention would be a completely solar powered vehicle; renewable resource, no cost.
Parker Fitzhugh
Journey Level Residential Electrician | ResidentialI am from Everett, Washington and I am a Residential Lead Electrician. Outside of work I like racing motorcycles and camping and enjoying life with my wife and two fur babies. My favorite thing about working at Northwest Electric and Solar is the people and the cool places/homes we get to work at. My one superpower would be superspeed. My dream solar installation would be in a cabin in the woods, always wanted a log cabin that’s self sufficient. A fun fact about myself is that I’ve broke my same front tooth 3 or 4 times now.
Chris Conklin
Electrical Apprentice | ResidentialI am from Southern California and I work as an Electrical Apprentice at Northwest Electric and Solar. I enjoy spending time with my family. I also enjoy roleplaying in some of MMORPGs that I play. I like to sing and listen to music. My favorite thing about working at NWES is how welcoming and friendly everyone is. My one superpower would the power to fly, or turn Super Saiyan. A fun fact about myself is that I enjoy voice acting and singing karaoke. My electrical invention: I would create a magnetic self propulsion generator so people could have unlimited clean energy.
Sales
Josh Peck
Energy Consultant | SalesI was born in Kenmore, Washington, and I am an Energy Consultant at NWES. I nerd out on renewable energy technologies, and I love spending time with my family. The sales team at Northwest Electric and Solar is very supportive, which is my favorite thing here. My superpower would be teleportation, so I could easily get my hands on authentic foods from around the world on a whim. My new invention would be reliable fusion power.
Isaiah Hinojosa
Energy Consultant | SalesI am from Seattle, Washington and I work as the Powershare Sales Technician. I enjoy traveling, eating, and cooking food and DJing! My favorite thing about working at Northwest Electric and Solar is that we have the privilege of working on some of the coolest homes and projects in Washington, and I have learned so much since starting my electrical Journey at NWES. My one superpower would be Instant Transmission. No more long flights! I haven't installed any solar myself but I'd love to start with my detached garage and setup a few Powerwall batteries as well. A fun fact about me is that I once met Method Man when I was working at Rite Aid. Nice guy! My new solar invention would be Solar Powered Commercial Planes…but I'm sure someone is on this. Let's reduce those emissions!
Dane Lennon
Energy Consultant | SalesI am from Spokane, Washington and I am an Energy Consultant at Northwest Electric and Solar. Outside of work I like playing volleyball, swimming, slacklining, snowboarding, climbing. My favorite thing about working at NWES is the solid team we have. My one superpower would be the ability to run super fast. If I could install solar anywhere it would be in Thailand - because the food is delicious.
Jonathan Palacios
Energy Consulant | SalesI am from Monterrey, Mexico and I am an Energy Consultant at Northwest Electric and Solar. I'm a technical sales engineer with over 8 years of experience in the field. I'm passionate about helping people understand how solar works in Washington and the technology behind it. When I'm not working, you'll find me traveling or exploring the beauty of the outdoors, whether it's hiking or snowboarding.
Theo Frare-Davis
Energy Consultant | SalesI am from Seattle, and I am an energy consultant at Northwest Electric and Solar, the best solar company I've worked at! Outside of work, I enjoy hiking on the peninsula and exploring all of Washington's beautiful natural features. My favorite part of NWES is working on whole-home electrical upgrades where the customer ends up with a completely new relationship to energy. If I could have one super power? The ability to communicate with animals because I'd learn a lot about the world. If I could install solar anywhere in the world, it'd be on my parents house so my dad would stop complaining about the electric bill. Sadly, they live in a forest. The ultimate solar invention would be solar-powered trees so people could have trees, shade, AND solar energy.
Jeff Laszewski
Service Consultant | SalesI am from Wisconsin and I am the lead estimator for EV charging and service projects. Derek's friendly smile is what inspired me to join Northwest Electric and Solar. My favorite thing about working at NWES is the teamwork. My one superpower power would be the ability to fly and I would install solar in Hawaii given the chance. My one electrical gadget I'd like to invent is a microchip that could cure cancer.
Sam Smith
Energy Consultant | SalesA native of Washington, Sam grew up in the south sound. He got his start in solar down in California years ago but returned home to help the industry grow in his home state, joining NWES in 2013. When he’s not selling solar he’s taking care of his two little boys and if time permits he loves to get outside to hike, camp, and ski.
Warehouse
Ken Davenport
Warehouse Assistant | WarehouseBorn in Hoquiam, WA I now live in Monroe, WA. Inspired by the need for a job, I'm glad I took the position of Warehouse Assistant at NWES. I keep dart frogs and tropical plants. I enjoy the variety of work in the warehouse, where every day is different. My dream installation would be enough solar panels to run a lovely homestead for my family and grandchild.
Alexander Sheridan
Warehouse Manager | WarehouseI am from Seattle, and I am the Warehouse Manager at Northwest Electric and Solar. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, watching sports, and watching sci-fi shows or movies. My favorite thing about working at NWES is that everyone feels like extended family! The work we do is helping the environment. And we have the coolest logo! My one superpower would be time travel. If I could install solar anywhere, it would be on Lebron James' house; just to say, we installed it on his home. He’s my favorite basketball player. Something my colleagues don't know about me is that I am a big sci-fi nerd! My one invention would be a solar-powered coffee maker; it would make a pot of coffee as soon as the sun rises and make everyone happier to have a fresh pot of coffee first thing in the morning.