Energy Trust’s outreach team connects customers across Oregon with services and incentives and builds partnerships within communities. Outreach managers are an essential part of this team—living and working in the communities they serve, they are Energy Trust’s on-the-ground resources for local businesses, homeowners, renters, farmers and ranchers, schools and more. They act as a bridge between Energy Trust program teams and local partners. By staying connected to community priorities and challenges, they help ensure Energy Trust’s initiatives truly meet the needs of the people they’re designed to serve. 

“Embedding outreach managers in communities statewide gives Energy Trust a clearer view of Oregon’s energy needs. They build authentic relationships, listen to residents, and bring local insight to help tailor outreach and support.” said Caryn Appler, outreach lead “As Energy Trust partners more with community-based organizations, this team coordinates efforts across programs in the field to deliver effective outcomes.”

Meet the team

Heather McNeill, Southern Oregon outreach manager, serves Jackson, Josephine, Douglas and Coos counties. She is on the board of the Elk Creek Watershed Coalition, and as an outreach manager she engages with chambers of commerce throughout her region as well as economic development organizations including South Coast Development Council, Umpqua Economic Development Partnership and Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development.  

What needs or opportunities exist in the region you serve?
“Resilience is an ethic here in Southern Oregon, and longevity and familiarity matter. We need local resources, local verbiage, local strategies and people to gain trust and facilitate adoption of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. There is so much potential for energy savings to be gained here.” 

Nate Merrill, Central Oregon outreach manager, serves Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson, Klamath and Lake counties. Through his role, Nate is involved with organizations like the regional chambers of commerce, Economic Development for Central Oregon, City Club and the Bend Climate Collective. He also collaborates with nonprofits including The Environmental Center, Lake County Resources Initiative, and Rooted Homes, as well as with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and the Klamath Tribes. 

What needs or opportunities exist in the region you serve?
“Central Oregon presents a unique mix: some communities are experiencing rapid growth and financial investment, while others are focused on maintaining existing infrastructure and keeping residents employed. The challenge is finding the right balance—supporting the growing demands of expanding areas while ensuring that historically underserved communities receive the attention they need.” 

Maria Robinson, Mid-Willamette Valley and coast outreach manager, serves Clatsop, Tillamook, Lincoln, Marion, Polk, Linn, Benton and Lane counties. Maria is the Vice President of Habitat Oregon, and she is actively involved with Latino organizations including Aliaza Poder, Mano a Mano, Latino Network and LatinoBuilt, which serve the Mid-Willamette Valley and coastal regions. 

What needs or opportunities exist in the region you serve?
“In my region, there is a growing need to ensure energy efficiency programs are accessible and culturally relevant. I want people to know that these opportunities exist, and that we’re here to listen, support, and make sure no one is left out of the conversation.” 

Dani Wilgus, Eastern Oregon outreach manager, serves Hood River, Wasco, Sherman, Gilliam, Morrow, Umatilla, Wallowa, Union, Malheur and Baker counties. In her role, she is actively engaged with the Contractor Marketplace Board and other community development groups like the Pendleton Path to Success committee. In a personal capacity, she is deeply involved in the rodeo and equestrian community, where she volunteers for the Pendleton Round-Up, supports 4-H youth programs and supports the Miss Rodeo Oregon program.  

What needs or opportunities exist in the region you serve?
“Many residents and business owners in Eastern Oregon are eager to adopt energy-efficient solutions, they just need access to clear information and flexible options that make sense for rural settings. There’s enormous opportunity here to strengthen local economies, improve comfort, and build long-term resiliency through energy efficiency and clean energy investments.” 

Arpana Nautiyal, Portland Metro outreach manager, serves Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Columbia, Yamhill and Clark counties. Arpana maintains and builds relationships with a diverse breadth of community-based organizations in her region. These organizations provide home energy assessments, energy efficiency education and critical heating, cooling and insulation services at a low-cost to community members.  

What needs or opportunities exist in the region you serve?
“The conversation regarding energy efficiency is not a new one for many communities here in the Portland Metro area, especially communities of color. I hope to better support them in sharing resources that are helpful and build upon their existing expertise.”