Open Nav Menu

NextEnergy exists to help ensure technology benefits everyone, regardless of location, background or demographics. The organization was founded in 2002, to accelerate Michigan’s transition to a cleaner energy future. Since then, NextEnergy and its service offerings have continued to evolve to advance mobility and smart cities technologies to prepare every demographic for the future. By helping organizations evaluate, fund, test and deploy technologies, NextEnergy aims to help make life healthier, safer and more efficient for people – from urban centers to rural communities and everything in between

Mobility

We work to advance the adoption of efficient mobility solutions by supporting emerging technologies, connecting them with funding, facilities and networking opportunities.

Smart Cities and Communities

Smart Cities and Communities: We work to advance the commercialization of smart, energy-efficient solutions for buildings, homes and infrastructure, optimizing how they interact with surrounding systems.

Experience, Knowledge and Relationships

Our depth of experience, technical knowledge and established network of partners allow us to develop effective programs and pilots and facilitate new relationships to help our clients achieve their commercialization goals. We do this through:

Connect with us to learn how you can start transforming your ideas and technology into smarter, cleaner more accessible solutions for communities and cities.

Our Experience

Meet Our Team

Email: saberj@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 240

Jim Saber is President & CEO at NextEnergy. Saber previously lead the business and technology development and demonstration activities to support commercialization and business growth of NextEnergy’s advanced energy clients and stakeholders. Saber’s experience includes the development of over $150 million in technology development and demonstration programs within e-Mobility, Smart Grid, Buildings and Infrastructure, MicroGrids, Energy Storage, Renewable Energy, and Alternative Fuels.

He has lead NextEnergy’s work in establishing new technology development and demonstration platforms within next generation energy efficiency and transportation applications. Prior to joining NextEnergy, Saber spent more than a decade in the energy-storage industry, where he held product- and business-development positions with Fortune 500 and start-up companies. Jim holds a B. S. degree in Electrical Engineering from Lawrence Technological University.

Jim Saber

President & Chief Executive Officer

Email Jim Saber
313.833.0100 ext. 240

Email: alishak@nextenergy.org
Phone: (313) 833-0100 ext. 407

Alisha Kiovanni is the Director of Administration and Operations at NextEnergy. She has over 15 years of experience in administrative leadership and business management. A former business owner, Kiovanni has held multiple management roles focused on driving organizational efficiency. Kiovanni oversees internal operations, facilities, administrative functions, and human resources to ensure seamless day-to-day performance within the organization.

Kiovanni holds certifications in entrepreneurial business management and earned a culinary degree from the Art Institute of Michigan, specializing in pastry arts. Her leadership approach is rooted in adaptability and creativity—skills honed through years of managing diverse teams and navigating complex operational challenges. Kiovanni is dedicated to fostering a forward-thinking, collaborative work culture that drives growth and empowers everyone to thrive.

Alisha Kiovanni

Director, Administration and Operations

Email Alisha Kiovanni
(313) 833-0100 ext. 407

Email: latonyab@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 103

Latonya Binford, Director of Finance at NextEnergy, a Detroit non-profit, accelerates cleantech solutions that create smarter, healthier, more accessible communities and cities.

Latonya has over 15 years of experience in Accounting and financial analysis in both the private and public sectors. Binford has managed enterprise-wide accounting system implementation and process improvements.  Binford also serves on the Board of Directors of a local non-profit community development corporation and is a member of the National Black MBA Association.

Binford holds a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration in Accounting from Central Michigan University and an MBA from the University of Detroit Mercy.

Latonya Binford

Director of Finance

Email Latonya Binford
313.833.0100 ext. 103

Email: nickt@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 320

Nick Thomas is the director of smart cities and communities at NextEnergy and the director of Michigan Clean Cities, leveraging more than a decade of expertise in the automotive, mobility and electric vehicle infrastructure sectors. With a strong engineering foundation and a passion for user-centric design, Thomas spearheads initiatives aimed at fostering smarter, more connected communities throughout Michigan.

Prior to his tenure at NextEnergy, Thomas held several pivotal roles. As innovation development lead, he collaborated with cutting-edge organizations such as Cruise, BrightDrop and OnStar. He also served as the supplier innovation accelerator manager at General Motors and senior program manager for electrification and net-zero fuels at Newlab.

Thomas holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial technical management from Central Michigan University and a master’s degree in engineering management from the University of Detroit Mercy.

Nick Thomas

Director, Smart Cities and Communities

Email Nick Thomas
313.833.0100 ext. 320

Email: laurenm@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 120

Lauren Mattar is the director of mobility initiatives at NextEnergy, where she leads projects that accelerate the adoption of innovative transportation technologies. She oversees multimillion-dollar grant programs that support the piloting, demonstration and testing of emerging mobility solutions across Michigan. In addition to her urban mobility work, Mattar manages initiatives focused on advancing hydrogen fueling technologies and has received national recognition for her leadership in hydrogen research. She also led a national research collaboration assessing fueling protocols for hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles, which received recognition from the Department of Energy.

With a background in industrial engineering, a master’s degree in engineering management and a project management (PMP) certification, Mattar brings technical expertise to her work. Passionate about sustainable and equitable transportation, Mattar works to ensure new mobility solutions enhance accessibility, environmental impact and economic opportunity for all communities.

Lauren Mattar

Director, Mobility Initiatives

Email Lauren Mattar
313.833.0100 ext. 120

Email: ericl@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 323

Eric Lee is the Director of Research and Technology Commercialization at NextEnergy. Eric is a mobility and energy technology strategist with 20+ years at Stellantis, where he led global electrification strategy, supplier innovation, and alternative fuels programs. Before joining NextEnergy, Eric founded Copper Country Capital, a consultancy that has advised companies and think tanks on infrastructure, xEV /hydrogen fuel cell ecosystems, and technology development and commercialization. Additionally, Eric serves on the Board of Directors for the binational Council of the Great Lakes Region, where he advises on mobility and sustainability issues.

Eric has a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Michigan Technological University and a master’s degree from Wayne State University. He also holds multiple patents and is a registered professional engineer in the State of Michigan.

Eric Lee

Director of Research and Technology Commercialization

Email Eric Lee
313.833.0100 ext. 323

Email: kristins@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 310

Kristin Shaw, LEED AP leads Smart Cities initiatives at NextEnergy, where she focuses on advancing sustainable urban innovation, climate-forward mobility, and equitable infrastructure solutions. She oversees multimillion-dollar grant programs that support piloting emerging mobility solutions across Michigan communities. She also manages initiatives focused on electrification and advanced air mobility. Kristin brings deep expertise in transportation decarbonization, having previously served as the Transportation Decarbonization Lead for the City of Detroit Office of Mobility Innovation. She also serves as a chair the Climate Action Committee for the Detroit City Council Green Task Force.

Kristin was recognized as a 2024 Notable Leader in Sustainability by Crain’s Detroit Business, and is an award-winning author of Women Driven Mobility: Rethinking the Way the World Moves (SAE, 2021), a collection of case studies highlighting innovation in transportation and mobility. Shaw is a LEED Accredited Professional (Operations and Maintenance) and holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and a master’s in Urban and Regional Planning from Wayne State University.

Kristin Shaw, LEED AP

Program Manager, Smart Cities and Communities

Email Kristin Shaw, LEED AP
313.833.0100 ext. 310

Email: kelliet@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 402

Kellie Thaxton is the Senior Accountant at NextEnergy. She has years of accounting experience with public, private and non-profit organizations. With her years of experience, Kellie has developed a high level of expertise in meeting deadlines, providing financial support for the team, and bringing new ideas to the company to ensure continued success. She has a strong interest in the finance world and is always eager to learn more.

Kellie holds a Bachelor of Science degree with a focus in Accounting from the University of Detroit Mercy. A fun fact about Kellie is that she loves spending time outdoors in warm weather.

Kellie Thaxton

Senior Accountant

Email Kellie Thaxton
313.833.0100 ext. 402

Email: mixonl@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 408

Lauren began her role as marketing and public relations manager at NextEnergy in the fall of 2023. Prior to joining the team, she held roles in communications, public relations, and broadcast news.

A Detroit native, Lauren graduated with honors from the University of Michigan – Flint, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication with a minor in marketing. Throughout her career, she has developed a love for storytelling, building relationships, and testing her creative limits.

Lauren Mixon

Manager, Marketing and Public Relations

Email Lauren Mixon
313.833.0100 ext. 408

Email: jeffreyh@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 220

Jeffrey Hoang is the Communications and Engagement Associate at NextEnergy. He leads stakeholder engagement initiatives, community outreach, event planning and provides essential marketing support.
With a background in organizing programs and events for political campaigns and higher education institutions, he brings valuable expertise in engaging internal and external partners.

Jeffrey has Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and Communication from Eastern Michigan University.

Jeffrey Hoang

Program Analyst

Email Jeffrey Hoang
313.833.0100 ext. 220

Email: emilyb@nextenergy.org
Phone: 313.833.0100 ext. 330

Emily Barg is an Operations and Research Specialist at NextEnergy. Emily plays a key role in shaping data-driven strategies, optimizing operational processes, and driving research initiatives to enhance the organization’s mission. With over ten years of experience in the parking industry and a strong background in mobility technology startups, she has extensive expertise in operations management, parking technologies, and innovative mobility solutions.

Known for her strengths in data analytics, creative problem-solving, and collaborative communication, Emily focuses on delivering impactful insights that drive organizational growth.

A fun fact about Emily is that she’s always on the move – whether it’s hiking a new trail, exploring a new city, trying out the latest food trends, or catching up on her favorite podcasts!

Emily Barg

Operations and Research Specialist

Email Emily Barg
313.833.0100 ext. 330

Meet Our Board

Lizabeth Ardisana

Board Chair

Lizabeth (Beth) Ardisana is the co-founder, principal owner and chief executive officer of ASG Renaissance, a global technical and communication services firm. As the CEO, Ardisana is responsible for the Company’s overall strategic direction and financial management while also taking an active role working directly with clients on various projects. In addition to managing ASG, Ardisana is an active business and civic leader in the Michigan and Hispanic Communities. She serves on numerous corporate and educational boards, and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the community. Prior to starting ASG Renaissance, Ardisana worked at Ford Motor Company as an engineer.

During her 14 years with Ford, she quickly advanced up the ranks holding various management positions in vehicle development, product planning and marketing. Ardisana holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Detroit, a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Computer Science from the University of Texas.

Lizabeth Ardisana

Marco Bruzzano

Board Member

Marco Bruzzano is the Vice President of Distribution Operations for DTE Energy (NYSE:DTE), a Detroit- based diversified energy company. As one of Michigan’s leading corporate citizens, DTE Energy is a force for growth and prosperity in the communities it serves in a variety of ways, including philanthropy, volunteerism and economic progress. In his role, Bruzzano is focused on the company’s multi-year effort to improve electric system reliability while also reducing costs to keep energy affordable. Bruzzano is directly responsible for overseeing the company’s engineering, technology and planning functions. Prior to this role, he was Vice President of Corporate Strategy supporting a broad range of efforts of strategic and operations improvement efforts.

Bruzzano also led DTE’s cost and operational benchmarking programs. Prior to joining DTE in 2008, Bruzzano worked broadly across the energy industry for nearly 20 years, including extensive periods as a management consultant with McKinsey and Booz Allen Hamilton. During this time, he advised global energy companies, electric utilities and power producers on strategy, operations and organizational effectiveness. Bruzzano earned an MBA with distinction from Duke University. He also earned a bachelor of science degree, with honors, and a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech. Bruzzano serves on the boards of NextEnergy and Endeavor Detroit.

Marco Bruzzano

John Hale III

Board Member

John Hale III is the President and Founder of The Cornerstone Group, LLC a project finance and business consultancy which serves as a financial intermediary to facilitate debt, equity and grant funding for project developers and sponsors as well as innovative and mid-tier companies. As President, Mr. Hale is a collaborative leader who designs funding strategies in the commercial real estate, renewable energy, and other sectors. In addition, John is an experienced director serving on the boards of significant non-profit organizations and a civic leader advocating for equity of opportunity on behalf of African American businesses.

Prior to launching The Cornerstone Group, LLC, Mr. Hale served by Presidential appointment in leadership roles at two federal cabinet level agencies. He first served as the Deputy Associate Administrator for the Office of Capital Access at the U.S. Small Business Administration. Thereafter, he served as the Director of the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU), at the U.S. Department of Energy. Mr. Hale’s distinguished service in this role was recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Energy who awarded him the Secretary’s Meritorious Service Award.

Mr. Hale earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan and a Master of Science degree in Finance from the Heinz School of Public Policy and Management at Carnegie Mellon University.

John Hale III

Eric Shreffler

Board Member

Eric Shreffler is the Managing Director for the Automotive Office at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. In this role he works directly with automotive industry stakeholders to establish economic development opportunities for the State. His team collaborates with federal agencies to identify partnership and funding opportunities to drive innovation, commercialization, and growth. Shreffler led a cross-functional team focused on advanced energy storage that led to $6B in direct investment in the State, including $1.3B in federal investment, as well as secured state funds to support the establishment of the ALMMII/LIFT and IACMI lightweight materials manufacturing innovation centers in downtown Detroit leveraging US Department of Defense and Department of Energy grants.

Prior to joining the MEDC in 2006, Shreffler was the Global Thermal Product Manager for Delphi Product & Service Solutions. He holds a BS in Applied Engineering from Michigan State University and an Executive MBA from Northwood University.

Eric Shreffler

Rick Spina

Board Member

Rick Spina, an auto industry veteran for more than 35 years, was appointed Vice President, Electric Vehicle (EV) Commercialization and Industrialization in June 2019. In this role, he is responsible for developing the partnerships, incentives, and investments needed to create the necessary electric vehicle charging infrastructure that will enable acceptance of electrification.

Prior to this role, Rick had been vice president of General Motors Global Portfolio Planning. For 5 years prior, Rick was GM’s Executive Chief Engineer of Crossover Sport Utility Vehicles leading product development, profitability and quality initiatives for all new and existing product entries.

Rick began his General Motors career in 1983 as a Design Release/Test Engineering for Body Systems. He then moved to Linden, New Jersey and held Production Superintendent and Material Director positions at the Mid-Sized Truck assembly plant. Since then, Rick has held various leadership positions in the company including Executive Director-Global Product Programs, Vice President-GMNA Quality and Vehicle Line Executive-Full Size Trucks.

Rick holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering from Princeton University and an MBA in General Management with Highest Honors from Harvard University. He and his wife, Barbara, have two daughters aged 24 and 27.

Rick Spina

Ned Staebler

Board Member

As Wayne State University’s Vice President, Economic Development, Ned is part of the university’s cabinet with responsibility for leading economic development activities that leverage university assets across the university and the local community. His activities are designed to function as a catalyst for growth in Midtown Detroit and include interactions with TechTown, Wayne State’s Office of Technology Commercialization, and Midtown Detroit, Inc.

Ned, who has private sector experience with both early stage technology ventures and Fortune 150 companies, served previously in a variety of senior roles with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, where he was most recently Vice President for Entrepreneurial and Capital Services.

Ned Staebler

Rob Stevens

Board Member

As ROUSH Products Group vice president of engineering, Rob Stevens spearheads future products and customer strategy. He brings expertise in engineering, product and business development, alternative fuel vehicles, and fleet operations to ROUSH. His background as a race car driver for 13 years adds to his ability to help with the Performance Products Group.

Previously, Stevens spent nearly four decades with Ford Motor Company. As Ford’s Chief Program Engineer, he directed strategic planning and product development for Ford commercial vehicles, including the Transit Connect, E-Series vans, Super-Duty trucks, and commercial stripped chassis. He also was responsible for the new Medium-duty, launch in 2016.

About

Mobility

Smart Cities and Communities

Experience, Knowledge and Relationships

Our Experience