Original founding member of USBI, our Executive Director, and also on the board for IBI. Tom's expertise in biochar is unsurpassed.

Myles Gray specializes in developing biochar-based solutions for atmospheric carbon dioxide removal and has extensive experience in water resources engineering, including green infrastructure and stormwater treatment system design.

John Webster, with over 28 years of experience in internet-related roles, now serves as the Communications Director for the US Biochar Initiative, focusing on biochar and climate resilience, and excels in sales, marketing, communications, fundraising, and product development, emphasizing equality and mutual benefit in all partnerships.

Tina Metzer, a Project Manager, Ecosystem Builder, and Entrepreneur, is devoted to scaling up biochar for a greener future, with a focus on rural and environmental solutions, digital inclusion in rural communities, and leading the conference team to drive forward sustainable initiatives against climate change.

Chuck Hegberg, leading the Chesapeake Bay Restoration project, brings over 30 years of experience in environmental and engineering consulting and construction, with a focus on biomass, bioenergy, and biochar. He is known for his visionary approach, strategic planning, and technical passions in environmental restoration, soil and water quality, and developing green business opportunities both domestically and internationally.

Kristin leads the BiocharAtlas project. She is a research microbiologist with the Agricultural Research Service. Her laboratory focuses on the effects of biochar on soil health and microbial community dynamics.

Kathleen Draper, a renowned biochar expert, author, and speaker, is recognized for her strategic thinking and collaborative approach, specializing in biochar education, research, and consulting, and is leading efforts in using biochar to decarbonize the built environment, making her an ideal moderator and panelist for Biochar 2024.

Josiah Hunt, founder and CEO of Pacific Biochar Benefit Corporation and a graduate of UH Hilo in Agroecology and Environmental Quality, has been a pioneer since 2008 in innovating biochar production, processing, and application methods, focusing on carbon sequestration and sustainable agricultural practices

Jeff Waldon, a certified wildlife biologist with vast experience in natural resource project management and development, specializes in value chain analysis for land management, forest carbon, and biodiversity integration, and is currently managing Restoration Bioproducts LLC to develop biomass energy projects, alongside assisting the Center for Natural Capital with various environmental initiatives.

Isabel's research has led to the development and characterization of a multitude of biochars, particularly using animal manures as feedstock, for environmental remediation with focus on heavy metals.

Benjamin Von Wong, an artist and advisor on creating compelling narratives for world-pressing issues, has generated over 100 million organic views on topics like Ocean Plastics and Electronic Waste, holds a Guinness World Record for an art piece made from 168,000 plastic straws, and hosts the "Impact Everywhere" podcast, with notable contributions including raising $1.8M for the Cure Sanfilippo Foundation.