Transforming the future.

At Envision Charlotte, we pride ourselves on being a small but mighty team driven by passion, innovation, and a deep commitment to sustainability. Our tight-knit group brings a diverse set of skills and experiences to the table, allowing us to move quickly, think creatively, and make a big impact. But we’re far from doing it alone—our strength is multiplied by the incredible partnerships we’ve built, the dedicated volunteers who show up time and again, and the supportive public who believe in our mission. Together, this extended Envision Charlotte family helps us turn bold ideas into real, lasting change for our city.

Core Team

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    Amy Aussieker

    Executive Director

    Amy, the fearless captain of the Innovation Barn, is the visionary Executive Director who turns wild ideas into groundbreaking realities. Known for her boundless energy and knack for thinking five steps ahead, Amy is constantly casting her net wide—reeling in opportunities, forging partnerships, and dreaming up big ideas to push the boundaries of the circular economy. She’s the one who catches the fish, setting the stage for the team to transform them into something extraordinary. Whether she’s presenting at global conferences, championing local initiatives, or brainstorming the next big thing over coffee, Amy leads with passion, creativity, and an unstoppable drive to make sustainability a way of life.

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    Daniel Heaton

    Deputy Director

    Daniel, the Barn’s “Chief Doer,” is the go-to guy for turning ideas into tangible, impactful projects. If Amy catches the fish, Daniel is the one who fillets it, seasons it, and serves up a delicious result. Whether it’s perfecting the glass-to-concrete process or collaborating with groups to optimize their material flows, Daniel thrives on taking concepts and making them work in the real world. He’s the hands-on problem solver, diving into every project with precision and determination to ensure the Barn’s initiatives don’t just stay ideas—they become success stories.

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    Erica Brechlin

    Public Manager

    At the Innovation Barn, Erica is the ultimate ringmaster of engagement and exploration! As the Public Manager, she keeps the place buzzing with energy—organizing fascinating tours that leave visitors inspired, coordinating hands-on field trips that make kids fall in love with sustainability, and leading volunteer activities that turn cleanup efforts into a fun community celebration. Whether she’s guiding a group through the micro MRF, teaching the magic of composting, or helping volunteers transform old T-shirts into wildlife beds, Erica ensures that every visitor leaves with a smile and a newfound appreciation for the circular economy. She’s the heart of the Barn’s vibrant community, making sustainability accessible, exciting, and a little bit magical!

Our Board of Directors

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    Geneviève Piché

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    Viraj Patel

    Sustainability Professional

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    David Callaway

    Chief, Crisis Operations and Sustainability
    Atrium Health

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    Danielle Frazier

    Special Asst. to City Manager, Workforce Development
    City of Charlotte

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    Jenn Grabenstetter

    Consulting Leader
    Slalom


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    Terryn Lawrence

    Chief Sustainability Officer at Rabobank, North America

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    Kim Marks

    Principal
    ProgressiveAE

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    Dr. Philip Otienoburu


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    Kathleen Price

  • A woman with dark brown hair, smiling, wearing a black blazer over a green top, sitting outdoors on grass, with greenery and pink flowering plants in the background.

    Emily Lopez

    VP, Workforce Development Gallo Mechanical LLC