Executive
Vittoria Bellissimo
President & CEO
As the President and CEO of CanREA, Vittoria Bellissimo leads a member association focused on ensuring that wind energy, solar energy and energy storage play a central role in transforming Canada’s energy mix.
Vittoria was previously the Executive Director of the Industrial Power Consumers Association of Alberta and worked in renewable energy procurement at both the Ontario Ministry of Energy and the Ontario Power Authority (now the IESO). Vittoria served on the Board of Emissions Reduction Alberta, as Vice Chair of Energy Efficiency Alberta, and was a founding Board member of Women+Power. She holds a M.Sc. in Environmental Sustainability from the University of Edinburgh and is a licensed professional engineer (B.Sc. Queen’s University). Vittoria is based in Calgary.
Wesley Johnston
Vice-President, Business Development, Finance and Operations
As CanREA’s Vice President, Business Development, Finance and Operations, Wesley Johnston provides business and organizational leadership and manages the membership and business-development team.
In his previous role as President and CEO at the Canadian Solar Industries Association, he led its merger with CanWEA to form CanREA in 2020. Wes holds an MBA (Queen’s University), a MAES focusing on the economic benefits of renewable energy (University of Waterloo) and a BBA in Business and Economics (University of PEI). Wes has been passionate about renewables ever since installing a solar water-heating system on his first home in PEI, back in 2004. Wes is based in Ottawa.
Leonard Kula
Vice President of Policy—Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs
As CanREA’s Vice President of Policy—Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs, Leonard Kula leads our policy development and government relations team in Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada, as well as our Technical and Utility Affairs team, which includes our Operations Program and CanREA’s Electricity Transition Hub.
Leonard was previously the Chief Operating Officer at Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator and served as Board member of the Northeast Power Coordinating Council, enhancing reliability in Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, New York and New England. Leonard holds an MBA (York University), as well as a MASc (University of Waterloo) and a BSc (University of Calgary) in Mechanical Engineering. He is based near Toronto.
Evan Wilson
Vice President of Policy—Western Canada and National Affairs
As CanREA’s Vice President of Policy—Western Canada and National Affairs, Evan Wilson leads on policy files with both the Federal government and governments in Western Canada.
He previously served as CanREA’s Senior Director, Policy & Government Affairs and as Senior Director of Western Canada for CanREA, and as Regional Director, Prairies for the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA). Prior to joining CanWEA, he worked with the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association and with Global Public Affairs on transportation and energy files. Evan has an MA in Political Science from the University of Calgary. He is based in Calgary.
Bridget Wayland
Senior Director of Communications
As CanREA’s Senior Director of Communications, Bridget Wayland leads our efforts to inform and engage target audiences about the key role wind, solar and energy-storage technologies will play in achieving Canada’s climate-change targets.
Bridget has 20+ years of experience as a bilingual communicator for Canadian environmental non-profits and publications, including ALUS Canada, Trans Canada Trail and Harrowsmith. She holds a Master’s degree in English and Creative Writing from Concordia University and a Bachelor’s in Humanistic Studies from McGill. She likes to hike, grow native plants and write. Bridget is based in southern Quebec.
Policy and Government Affairs
Jean Habel
Senior Director, Québec and Atlantic Canada
As CanREA’s Senior Director, Québec and Atlantic Canada, Jean Habel serves as CanREA’s bilingual key representative and spokesperson in these regions.
He leads the Quebec and Atlantic networks, working closely with CanREA members. Prior to joining CanREA, he was Senior Advisor, Public & Government Affairs at the Association québécoise des pharmaciens propriétaires for two years, and the MNA for Sainte-Rose (Laval) for four years before that. Jean holds a BBA from HEC Montréal and is a CPA. In his spare time, he enjoys sports and outdoor activities. Jean is based in the Montreal area.
Phil McKay
Senior Director of Distributed Energy Resources and Grid Integration
As CanREA’s Senior Director of Distributed Energy Resources and Grid Integration, Phil McKay leads the association’s BTM program and its Utility GRID Integration program.
Phil previously led CanREA’s Electricity Transition Hub as its Executive Director, and before that led CanREA’s and CanWEA’s respective Operations Programs. He has also worked as an engineer at the Wind Energy Institute of Canada and in automotive thermodynamics. He holds a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Windsor, specializing in the group dynamics of commercial-scale wind turbines. Phil is based in Southern Ontario.
Kelly Hall
Director for Saskatchewan and Indigenous Engagement, and Membership Sales Manager
Kelly serves in dual roles at CanREA as Director for Saskatchewan and Indigenous Engagement, and as Membership Sales Manager.
Kelly represents CanREA members by leading the Saskatchewan Network and manages CanREA’s policy work in the province. He leads CanREA’s Indigenous Engagement activities to support Indigenous communities. Kelly also works with current and potential members of all sizes. Prior to joining CanREA in 2022, he led business development efforts at Forward Summit, a company dedicated to improving Indigenous economic opportunities across Canada. Kelly can often be found outdoors, playing sports, or volunteering wherever his skills are needed. He is based in Calgary.
Patricia Lightburn
Director, British Columbia
As CanREA’s Director for British Columbia, Patricia Lightburn works with members to advance strategic priorities in the BC market.
Prior to joining CanREA, Patricia was a managing consultant at Dunsky Energy and Climate Advisors. She has also held roles at Innergex Renewable Energy, the David Suzuki Foundation and the Ontario Power Authority (now IESO). Patricia holds a master’s degree from Sciences Politiques in Paris, France. Outside of work she explores the mountains with her young family and three dogs. She is based near Vancouver, in Squamish.
Fernando Melo
Federal Director
As CanREA’s Federal Director, Fernando Melo leads CanREA’s federal advocacy work, supporting members on federal government engagement priorities.
Before joining CanREA, he worked as a clean energy and technology public affairs consultant at PAA Advisory and Global Public Affairs, helping organizations find opportunities in Canada’s transition to a net-zero economy, and as a federal policy advisor at Clean Energy Canada. Fernando holds a B.A. in Politics and Political Economy from Trent University. Outside of work, he can be found cycling in the Gatineau Hills. Fernando Melo is based in Ottawa.
Eric Muller
Director for Ontario
As CanREA’s Director for Ontario, Eric Muller represents CanREA members and leads the Ontario Network to advance stakeholder advocacy and policy outcomes.
Prior to joining CanREA, Eric worked in a variety of functions at Ontario Power Generation, QUEST Canada and the Independent Electricity System Operator. Eric holds a bilingual Master’s degree in Public and International Affairs from York University. Outside of work, he spends time with his young family and enjoys outdoor activities. Eric is based in the Greater Toronto Area.
Radha Rajagopalan
Director for Alberta
As CanREA’s Director for Alberta, Radha Rajagopalan represents CanREA members, leads the Alberta Network and manages our policy work in the province.
Radha previously worked for the Government of Alberta’s Ministry of Environment and Parks and Climate Change Office, including as Chief of Staff to the Deputy Minister. She has also worked for the City of Toronto, the Government of Canada, and the Government of Ontario. Radha holds a Masters of urban planning from the University of Toronto. Outside of work, she volunteers with Alberta ACTS, an Indian classical arts organization she co-founded. She is based in Edmonton.
Eddie Oldfield
Manager, Atlantic Canada
As CanREA’s Manager for Atlantic Canada, Eddie Oldfield supports CanREA’s advocacy work across the region.
Before joining CanREA, Eddie helped communities and utilities transition to a net-zero future at QUEST Canada. He also played key roles at such organizations as the New Brunswick Climate Change Hub, the Open Geospatial Consortium, and the Canadian Risk and Hazards Network. He holds a B.A. from St. Thomas University and a Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal. Eddie is a classically trained pianist who performs in live bands. He is based in Dieppe, New Brunswick.
Valerie Lam
Data Analyst
As CanREA’s Data Analyst, Valerie Lam supports the Policy Team by developing CanREA’s installed-capacity database and by collecting and managing industry data across Canada.
Valerie has a Bachelor of Commerce degree from McMaster University and a professional Data Science certificate from Guelph University. Prior to CanREA, she worked in the technology sector, as well as for the Canadian Government—at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, and at the Immigration and Refugee Board. During her spare time, Valerie enjoys painting, sewing, puzzles and swimming. Valerie is based in Ontario.
Katso Ramodimoosi
Policy Analyst
As CanREA’s Policy Analyst, Katso Ramodimoosi supports the Policy team in communicating with CanREA members, interacting with other CanREA teams and in developing our thought leadership.
Katso is currently pursuing a Master’s of International Affairs, with a focus on Health, Displacement and Humanitarian Policy, at Carleton University. She has a background in policy research, working with non-profit organizations in Ottawa. In her free time, Katso enjoys distance running, gardening and taking care of her many indoor plants. Katso is based in Ottawa.
Operators Program
Mathieu Côté
Director, Operators Program
As CanREA’s Operators Program Director, Mathieu Côté leads the National Operators Network with committees and working groups focused on site operations, asset management, decommissioning, workforce development and health & safety.
Matt has ten years of industry experience, having worked for a Wind/Solar/Hydrogen developer in France and a major OEM in Quebec, Nova Scotia and the UK. He holds a Physics degree from Dalhousie University. In his spare time, he attempts marathons and wrangles a young son. Matt is a proud Franco-Ontarian, currently based in Montreal.
Mary MacLean
Manager, Operators Program
As CanREA’s Manager, Operators Program, Mary MacLean assists with the Operations Network, focusing on initiatives within the EHS and workforce development committees.
Mary has a graduate certificate in Advanced Ergonomics Studies from Fanshawe College and a BA in Kinesiology from Western University. In her spare time, Mary enjoys music, crafting and spending time outdoors. Mary is based in southwestern Ontario.
Membership & Business Development
Julie Mair
Director, Membership and Business Development
As CanREA’s Membership and Business Development Director, Julie Mair implements the Association’s strong member-benefits program and facilitates partner relationships and sponsorships.
Prior to the launch of CanREA in 2020, Julie was the Membership and Business Development Manager at the Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA). She previously managed member services at BIOTECanada, served with the Public Health Agency of Canada, and managed residential group homes for people with developmental disabilities for nearly two decades. Julie is based in Ottawa and, as an avid hockey fan, she proudly supports the Ottawa Senators.
Kelly Hall
Director for Saskatchewan and Indigenous Engagement, and Membership Sales Manager
Kelly serves in dual roles at CanREA as Director for Saskatchewan and Indigenous Engagement, and as Membership Sales Manager.
Kelly represents CanREA members by leading the Saskatchewan Network and manages CanREA’s policy work in the province. He leads CanREA’s Indigenous Engagement activities to support Indigenous communities. Kelly also works with current and potential members of all sizes. Prior to joining CanREA in 2022, he led business development efforts at Forward Summit, a company dedicated to improving Indigenous economic opportunities across Canada. Kelly can often be found outdoors, playing sports, or volunteering wherever his skills are needed. He is based in Calgary.
Daria Ruginis
Manager, Membership & Business Development
As CanREA’s Manager, Membership & Business Development, Daria Ruginis helps the MBD team provide important services to CanREA members.
Prior to CanREA, Daria worked at non-profit associations and institutions in member services and engagement. Daria holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Toxicology from Ontario Tech University. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time outside, playing trivia with friends and renovating her century home. Daria is based in the Region of Waterloo, Ontario.
Brittany Borden
Membership & Business Development Coordinator
As CanREA’s Membership & Business Development Coordinator, Brittany assists the MBD team, maintains a strong membership database, supports membership recruitment activities and helps with event coordination.
Brittany holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. In her spare time, she enjoys playing outdoor sports, bringing her two pups to the dog park, traveling to new places and immersing herself in new cultures. Brittany is based in the Region of Waterloo, Ontario.
Finance & Operations
Sandi Wensink
Finance Manager
As CanREA’s Finance Manager, Sandi Wensink ensures CanREA’s books are balanced, its HR policies are optimized and its internal operations are on point.
She was previously CanWEA’s Finance Officer for three years, and before that was in a similar role for 23 years at another not-for-profit association. In her spare time, Sandi is an avid soccer player and crafter, and loves spending time with her grandkids. She is based in Ottawa.
Meagan Blandizzi
Operations Manager
As CanREA’s Operations Manager, Meagan Blandizzi helps CanREA manage the organization’s operational, administrative and human resource functions, supporting the CEO and Management Team on a day-to-day basis and interfacing regularly with the Board of Directors.
Prior to joining CanREA, Meagan worked with the eDemocracy Network, helping indigenous communities and local governments across Canada to create Climate Action Plans which residents could understand, engage with, and ultimately support. Meagan has a BA in Communications from the University of Toronto, and in her spare time, can be found swimming, canoeing, exploring nearby forests with her dog, or reading good fiction. Meagan is based in Oshawa, Ontario.
Events
Carole Brault
Director of Events
As CanREA’s Director of Events, Carole Brault is responsible for the development, planning and implementation of CanREA’s conferences and events, leading our events team and fostering the growth of our events program.
Carole is a Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) who worked as the Manager of Events at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities before joining CanREA in 2023. Carole is an avid reader and amateur photographer who likes to spend time in nature and with friends and family. Carole is based in Ottawa.
Ashlee Pallotta
Manager, Events
As Manager, Events at CanREA, Ashlee Pallotta helps the events team hold national conferences, regional networking receptions, golf tournaments, webinars and other events.
Before joining CanREA, Ashlee worked in non-profit organizations for eight years, focused on fundraising and events. She has an Event Management Certificate from Humber College and a Combined B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from Carleton University. In her spare time, Ashlee enjoys mountain biking, spending time in nature and exploring new places to eat. Ashlee is based in Ottawa, Ontario.
Alana Ingraham
Events Administrator
As CanREA’s Events Administrator, Alana supports the events team by overseeing event registration and preparing event materials. Until April 2025, she also served as the Manager of CanREA’s Electricity Transition Hub.
Prior to CanREA, Alana spent 14 years in administrative roles in both the non-profit and construction industries. Alana holds a Bachelor of Music with a minor in Psychology from Mount Allison University. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, travelling, and doing puzzles. Alana is based in southwestern Ontario.
Communications
Judy Mitri
Bilingual Communications Manager
As CanREA’s Bilingual Communications Manager, Judy Mitri manages our e-newsletters, website, production schedules and external contractors.
Judy joined us in April 2022, after nine years in marketing and communications for such organizations as Hema-Quebec Foundation, Dormez-Vous (Sleep Country), Influence Marketing and Remax. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing from HEC Montreal and a law certificate from Laval University, where she studied renewable energy law. In her spare time, she is an ambassador for Type one diabetes. She is based in Montreal.
Katherine Belisle
Communications Manager
As CanREA’s Communications Manager, Katherine Belisle produces public-facing communications projects related to brand identity, awareness building and event marketing.
She previously worked in communications and digital marketing at Palette Skills, McGill and the Montreal Pride festival. She has also worked as a graphic designer for clients such as UNICEF Canada and The Native Friendship Center of Montreal. She holds a B.A. in sociology as well as a professional certificate in applied communications from McGill University. In her spare time, she likes to hike, garden and cook healthy food. She is based in Saint Sauveur, Quebec.
Michaela Ianni
Communications Specialist
As CanREA’s Communications Specialist, Michaela Ianni delivers the association’s dynamic social media presence and coordinates media relations.
Michaela holds an Honours Bachelor’s in public relations from the University of Ottawa and a Diploma in Public Relations from Algonquin College. Prior to CanREA, she worked in the non-profit, nuclear energy and technology sectors. She spends her free time baking, listening to true crime podcasts and spending time with family. Michaela is based in Ottawa.
Melissa McDougall
Communications Coordinator
As CanREA’s Communications Coordinator, Melissa McDougall assists the communications team by maintaining and updating the CanREA website, creating newsletters, providing in-house graphic design support, and much more.
Melissa has an Advanced Diploma in Public Relations from Durham College and a Medical Administration Diploma from Sheridan College. Prior to CanREA, Melissa was a Membership Coordinator in an agriculturally based non-profit. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys writing, editorial design, advocating for mental health and discovering new events in her community. Melissa is based near Toronto.