Where Leadership, Innovation, and Energy Futures Meet: AEE West Keynotes

Conférence et exposition AEE West sur l'énergie brings the energy community together around one powerful idea: progress happens faster when practitioners have direct access to the people shaping policy, markets, utilities, and the built environment. This year’s keynote lineup reflects that belief, featuring public leaders, utility executives, and industry innovators who are actively influencing how energy systems are designed, delivered, and decarbonized across the West and beyond.

Mo Malakoutian | Mayor, City of Bellevue

A champion of affordable housing, public safety, and climate resilience, Mayor Malakoutian brings a unique blend of engineering expertise and policy leadership. With over 20 years in construction, academia, and tech, he can explore how cities can balance growth, equity, and sustainability: lessons directly applicable to businesses and policymakers alike.

Aaron August | SVP & Chief Customer Officer, Puget Sound Energy

A national leader in utility innovation, Aaron August has shaped energy efficiency, demand response, and clean transportation strategies at major utilities. His knowledge reveals how customer-centric energy solutions can drive both sustainability and business success which are critical insights for anyone navigating the evolving energy landscape.

Sam Cho | Commissioner, Port of Seattle

As the youngest and first person of color to lead the Port of Seattle, Commissioner Cho is a trailblazer in economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and equity. His experience (from international trade to government leadership) offers a roadmap for integrating climate action with inclusive growth.

Shay Reed | AGMM Energy, CEM, Costco Wholesale

A global thought leader in energy procurement and decarbonization, Shay Reed has spearheaded Costco’s ambitious Clean Energy & Emissions strategy. Discover how one of the world’s largest retailers is educating teams, cutting costs, and scaling sustainable solutions, and how you can apply these strategies in your organization.

Ash Awad | President & Chief Market Officer, McKinstry

Pioneering decarbonization and climate-resilient buildings, Ash Awad has transformed McKinstry into a national leader in sustainable infrastructure. His knowledge stems around real-world strategies for turning buildings from liabilities into high-performance assets while addressing affordability and equity.

Summer Fowler | President, ecoREAL & WELL Faculty

A champion of healthy, equitable buildings, Summer Fowler has proven that sustainability and social impact go hand-in-hand. From Living Buildings to Net Zero projects, her work demonstrates how businesses and cities can design for people and the planet without sacrificing profitability.

At AEE West, the keynote stage is not separate from the hallway conversations, technical sessions, or networking moments. It’s part of a shared experience designed to spark ideas, dialogue, and collaboration. Register to join the conversation, gain direct access to these leaders, and be part of the community driving practical, impactful energy solutions forward. Learn more and register on our website.