RCAP SOLUTIONS - Key Persons
Adam Bourque joined RCAP Solutions in 2022 after spending over 3 years as a GIS Community Specialist for RCAP in Kentucky. Adam brings a unique skillset that specializes in creating customized GIS solutions and training focused on rural water and wastewater operations. While at RCAP in Kentucky, Adam's GIS technical assistance focused on water, wastewater, recycling, and opioid and substance abuse mapping. Adam is also involved in grant writing, graphic design, and photography. Education: B.S. in Natural Resources and Environmental Science with a minor in GIS from the University of Kentucky.
Job Titles:
- Chief Financial Officer
- Finance
- Vice President
Alyssa joined RCAP Solutions in 2009, as an entry level accountant while completing her bachelor's degree. After 18 months, she was promoted to Manager of Finance and Program Audit and began managing staff. Alyssa has quickly risen through the ranks of a complex department in this multifaceted organization. Alyssa brings a strong level of professionalism, management and organizational skills to the organization, providing strong support to the finance department and a focus on the mission and programs which support our clients. Alyssa holds a MBA from Fitchburg State University and a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from Worcester State University.
Andrew Evans joined RCAP Solutions in May 2021. His background is in natural science, geology, and hydrology. He has extensive experience in the wastewater sector and previously worked as the pretreatment coordinator and laboratory director a sewage treatment plant in Western Massachusetts. Andrew has extensive experience maintaining compliance, performing inspections, and biologically and chemically treating wastes. His extensive knowledge of both state and federal environmental laws makes him a valuable asset to the small, rural communities he serves. Education: B.S. in Natural Science & Minor in Geology, Northern Vermont University. Professional Certifications: Grade 7-C MA Wastewater License, Class 2 MA Wastewater Lab Certification, MA Certification in Drinking Water Treatment and Distribution, & Title 5 Septic System Inspector.
Ariel Rosa-Otero joined RCAP Solutions in 2019. He brings 30 years of experience working for the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA), which owns and operates the island-wide public water and wastewater systems, serving the majority of Puerto Rico's population. During his tenure, Ariel has served in a variety of roles at PRASA including: Compliance Manager, responsible for ensuring plants were implementing appropriate drinking water standards and procedures; Environmental Emergencies Responder, supervising the cleaning and disposal of both hazardous and nonhazardous chemicals; Support Team Member, providing support to rural communities; and Research and Development Manager, identifying technologies, equipment, products and procedures to help improve processes and treatment of drinking water and wastewater plants. He brings both the experience and knowledge to improve and maintain the quality of drinking water from the source to the public, and the ability to assist communities with both federal and local laws and regulations. Education: B.A. in Chemical Engineering, University of Puerto Rico. Professional Certifications: Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Category IV, Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator Category IV.
Becky Sims joined RCAP Solutions in 2023. Her experience includes working for New York municipalities as a Public Health Sanitarian and as an elected Councilperson. She has extensive experience ensuring regulatory compliance for water and wastewater systems, including onsite septic systems. Becky has also had success leveraging funds in the form of grants for environmental improvement projects. She has worked in the field training volunteers and sampling groundwater to develop a database of "pre-fracking" data and is the co-author of a peer-reviewed publication in the Journal "New Solutions". Education: Master's Degree in Public Administration from Anna Maria College and Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Studies from Ithaca College.
Job Titles:
- Chief Executive Officer
- President
Locally ingrained in the not for profit sector, Brian came to RCAP Solutions in 2008 from the Cleghorn Neighborhood Center in Fitchburg, MA where he was the Director of Development. Previously, Brian also consulted for seven years with several non-profits across the region in development activities such as fundraising, grant writing and strategic collaboration initiatives. Brian holds a Certificate in Literature from Cambridge University, a Bachelors of Arts in English from Florida Atlantic University and a Masters of Arts from University of Central Florida. Brian has served on the board of Literacy Volunteers of Montachusett Area as director and Network of Area Nonprofits as an Advisory Board Member.
Brian Scadova-Vose joined RCAP Solutions in 2023. He has a proven track record of providing quality technical assistance to small water and wastewater systems, ensuring they meet compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). Brian also has substantial experience with GIS mapping, creating high-quality cartographic products, including hard-copy maps, cloud-based GIS applications, aerial imaging, and spatial analyses. He has trained operators and boards on a myriad of topics related to compliance and technical, managerial, and financial subjects. Among his many professional activities, Brian is an active NEWEA (New England Water Environment Association) Asset Management Committee Member. Licenses: Certified Water Operator, Grade 1 Distribution & Treatment. Education: Bachelor's Degree in Geography from Keene State College.
Job Titles:
- Regional Director ( NY / NJ / PA )
Candace Balmer has been with RCAP Solutions since 1997, assisting small, rural communities to plan, fund, implement and maintain community water and wastewater projects. She is a skilled technical educator and trainer. Previously, she held the position of Associate Director, Pollution Abatement Technology Program, Westchester Community College, Valhalla, New York, and of Project Engineer, Environmental Resources Management, Inc., Exton, Pennsylvania. Education: A.A.S. in Water Quality Monitoring; B.A. in Anthropology; M.S. in Environmental Engineering.
With almost 50 years of experience, Carl has dedicated his career to housing and rural community service. After nine years of working in the collegiate residential life sector, Carl began his 26-year career at RCAP Solutions as Director of Rental Assistance. In this role, he managed the affordable housing assistance program for 3 years, more than doubling the program from 1200 units to 2600 units. As Associate Executive Director, Carl increased his oversight responsibility to also include property management, housing counseling, and the environmental technical assistance programs. He then moved into the role of Assistant Executive Director, taking on additional responsibilities including reorganization, management, and human resources. Carl retired from the organization as Executive Vice President, responsible for all mission related activity and contract deliverables, expanding and improving services, strategic planning, monitoring financial performance, coordinating state and federal public policy efforts, ensuring compliance with organizational standards and policies, and serving on the executive leadership team. Carl currently works as Management Specialist for Keene Housing in Keene, NH. He is a former board member of the Rural Community Assistance Partnership, past executive committee member of the Massachusetts Rural Development Council, past president of the Regional Housing Network of Massachusetts, and a past board member of the Housing Information Center. He is currently active as a board member and treasurer for Homeowner Options for Massachusetts Elders, in Lowell, MA; and is the past club president and active member of the Keene Kiwanis Club board of directors, and community services and membership committees. He is an active member of the United Church of Christ in Keene, NH, as a member of the church council, ministry coordinator, and several other committees including the executive committee of two capital campaigns that have raised over 2.3 million dollars between them. He also plays hand bells and sings in the choir. Carl holds a B.A. in History from Bloomfield College, a M.Ed. in College Student Personnel Administration from Pennsylvania State University and has completed doctoral course work in educational administration at Michigan State University.
Carlos Velázquez-Figueroa joined RCAP Solutions in 2017. With more than 37 years of experience in the environmental field, including operation and maintenance of drinking water, sanitary and industrial treatment plants, solid waste projects, environmental surveys, and asbestos projects. Additionally, he has experience in management and supervision, and has strong communications skills in English and Spanish. Previously he was a Project Manager/Director of Sales & Marketing at ETAG Corporation where he worked with small drinking water systems in Puerto Rico. He has over 30 years of experience in the development and delivery of water and wastewater training. Education: B.S. in Chemical Engineering, University of Puerto Rico - Mayagüez Campus. Professional Certifications: Level IV certified Drinking Water and Wastewater Plant Operator.
Carmen Montañez-Velázquez joined RCAP Solutions in April 2022. She brings over 15 years of experience working at the Puerto Rico Aqueducts and Sewer Authority (PRASA) as a plant operator, compliance specialist, and environmental compliance official. She offers progressive knowledge in water filtration processes; wastewater treatment; health, safety and environmental protection programs; compliance with the provisions of regulatory agencies; and training in a world-class pharmaceutical organization. Carmen's vast expertise will support rural communities needing assistance with their drinking water and wastewater systems. Education: M.S.E.M., Metropolitan University, San Juan, Puerto Rico; B.S., University of Puerto Rico, Cayey, PR. Professional Certifications: Potable Water and Wastewater Plant Operator, Category IV; Train the Trainers; Health & Safety in Water Treatment Plants; Risk Management Plan & Process Safety Management; Safe Management of Chlorine and Respiratory Protection; Process Control System of Filtration Plants & Sludge Treatment Systems.
Catherine Rees re-joined RCAP Solutions in 2018 after more than ten years as Senior Sanitarian at the district office of the NYS Department of Health. Prior to that, she worked with RCAP for an additional twelve years. She has extensive experience providing training, technical assistance, resources, and capacity building to small water and wastewater systems. Education: M.S. in Environmental Health, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh; B.S. in Environmental Sciences, University of Pittsburgh.
Danielle Desmarais joined RCAP Solutions in September 2021. She brings a decade of environmental experience working in a variety of positions including laboratory work, research and analysis, water systems, and quality control to the organization. She has experience in marketing and managing projects, and her enthusiasm for ensuring individuals have access to safe, clean water makes her a valuable asset to the Private Well Program. Education: M.S. in Environmental Science and Policy, Clark University, Worcester, MA; B.A. in Fine Arts in Theatre Design and Technology, Syracuse, NY. Professional Certifications: Cross Connection Control Surveyor; Water Treatment I, Process Optimization; Watershed Management Training Certificate.
Job Titles:
- in 2014 As Our Sustainable Materials Management Specialist
- Sustainable Materials Management Specialist
Edwin Vázquez-Asencio joined RCAP Solutions in 2014 as our Sustainable Materials Management Specialist working in Municipal Solid Waste Management in Puerto Rico. Edwin educated communities to organize clean ups of illegal dump sites and to develop municipal and school-based recycling programs as well as community education and outreach activities. He has over 10 years of community education and training experience. Education: B.S. in Business Administration & Concentration in Marketing, University of Puerto Rico; M.BA. from Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico. He also has formal education in Biology and Ecology from the University of Puerto Rico. Professional Certifications: Potable Water Treatment Plant Operator, Level II, a Certified Recycling Promoter and is a Regional Leader of the Educational Committee of the Puerto Rico Partnership.
Emily joined RCAP Solutions in July of 2015 after several successful years at ADP as a HR Business Partner, where she served as RCAP's main contact and account manager. Emily is a strong relationship manager with 20 years of experience in the human resources field. She has extensive experience in employee relations, corporate initiative guidance and executive level management support. She brings extensive knowledge of healthcare reform compliance and offers strategic experience in implementing solutions. Emily holds a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Psychology and a minor in Human Services from Fitchburg State University. Emily is a Certified Healthcare Reform Specialist, Senior Certified Professional and is a certified Professional in Human Resources. She is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management.
Erick Toledo has more than 15 years' experience working in water, wastewater, and solid waste management both internationally and nationally. Erick worked as a Rural Community Development Specialist for RCAC in Colorado. In that role he conducted water and wastewater rate analyses, provided on-site technical assistance and training, identified funding sources and assisted systems with applications, developed source water protection plans, assured compliance and implemented consolidation projects with public water utility officers and their surrounding communities, some of which were funded by HHS/OCS. Erick also worked as a Program Manager at the Desert Research Institute (DRI) and a Program Coordinator of the Clean Water Initiative, where he oversaw international WASH programs in multiple countries in Latin America. His work includes curriculum and database systems development, monitoring and evaluation programs and the organization of emergency response efforts to reestablish water service. Education: M.S. in Sustainable Development & Conservation Biology, University of Maryland; B.S. in Engineering & Natural Resources Management, Universidad de San Carlos Guatemala. Professional Certifications: Certified Check Up for Small Systems Trainer (CUPSS), NH Wastewater treatment Facility Operator 1-OIT, AWWA Water Treatment Operator, Level 1.
Felix Ramos joined RCAP Solutions in October 2021 with 6 years of experience focusing on the health and safety of clients, including access to rehabilitation and medical necessities, inspecting water quality, conducting surveys, and building databases for accurate and vital record keeping. He started his career as a Wellness Program Manager with Medtronic where he evaluated and facilitated prescribed exercise and rehabilitation techniques. After which he took the position of Environmental Protection Specialist with the Puerto Rico Department of Health. In this position, he was instrumental in the ongoing testing and upkeep of water quality in multiple municipalities as well as constant improvements made for emergency response protocols and development of public educative materials. This work led him to his next position of Environmental Health Program Regional Director where he managed 25 employees in 3 offices to continue his phenomenal work in the Drinking Water division, Food Code in the Food Hygiene Division, and the FDA PMO in the Dairy Hygiene Division. While completing his M.P.H. he took an internship at the Environmental Protection Agency where he created databases, wrote permits for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and public meeting announcements for publishing in major newspapers. His significant efforts in the environmental health and health sciences will be an asset in his role as Water Specialist for Puerto Rico. Education: B.S. in Health Sciences, University of Puerto Rico, Ponce, Puerto Rico; M.P.H. in Environmental Health, Ponce Health Sciences University.
Job Titles:
- Director - Massachusetts
- Investment Director With Boston Impact Initiative LLC
Henry Noël Jr. is an Investment Director with Boston Impact Initiative LLC. in Boston, MA, a nonprofit investing fund working to build a future where entrepreneurs of color and their communities have the financial, social, and political power to create a sustainable, inclusive, and equitable economy for generations to come. He has over 20 years of investment experience with an expertise in analysis, valuation, management, and sales. He has volunteered as a mentor with Entrepreneurship for All, a nonprofit that partners with communities nationwide to help under-represented individuals start and grow their businesses through training, mentorship, and an extensive support network. Henry earned an MBA from the Hofstra University, Zarb School of Business in Hempstead, NY, and a BA in Business Administration from Atlantic Union College in South Lancaster, MA. He also completed the Oxford University Impact Investing Programme at Said Business School in Oxford UK. Henry is a passionate champion of social and environmental impact and brings a robust background in business and fund development, investment, financial expertise, strong team management and communication skills.
Jennifer (Jenna) Day, Director of Development, at RCAP Solutions is located in rural Western Massachusetts and has been with RCAP Solutions since 2018. With over two decades of working in community and economic development, she brings with her a diverse skill set that includes building individual and community capacity and supporting the progress and sustainability of rural communities. Her experience as Town Coordinator in Heath, Massachusetts, as Director of the Housing Consumer Education Center at the Franklin County Regional Housing and Redevelopment Authority, and her tenure on the local Heath Board of Health provides critical technical, financial, and managerial expertise including extensive project management and contract compliance experience. Ms. Day's expertise also includes operating a non-transient, non-community water system. Before her promotion to Director of Development, she was the Director of Community & Environmental Resources responsible for grants and contract compliance for a team of 30 Technical Assistance Providers serving rural communities in New England, New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. She also served as a Community Specialist for New England. She has a degree in Environmental Education from Goddard College, Plainfield VT.
Job Titles:
- Regional Director ( MA / CT / RI )
Jim Starbard joined RCAP Solutions in 2009. He has 8 years' prior experience as a licensed sanitarian with duties including approval and inspection of septic system repairs and installations, plan review, soil evaluation, percolation testing, field inspections, system oversight, well plan approval and inspection including water quality testing, inspection and enforcement of MA State Sanitary Code and other applicable regulations. Education: B.S. in Health Science, Worcester State University; Master of Occupational and Environmental Health, Anna Maria College. Professional Certifications: Certified Health Officer, Healthy Homes Specialist, Drinking Water Operators License Grade VSS, Registered Sanitarian, Licensed Soil Evaluator, Licensed Title 5 System Inspector, Licensed Code Enforcement Lead Determinator Inspector, Very Small Systems Water Operator License. Professional Affiliations: Massachusetts Environmental Health Association.
Job Titles:
- Regional Director ( PR / USVI )
Since 1995, Josefa Torres-Olivo has been providing training and technical assistance in Puerto Rico for RCAP Solutions. Previously, she had 10 years of experience implementing drinking water regulations for the Puerto Rico Public Water Supply by working with the PR Department of Health as a Regional Engineer, and director of the Non-PRASA Section of the Drinking Water Program. Through a past contract with the PR Department of Health, Josefa also oversaw the implementation of Drinking Water Sanitary Surveys for small systems outside of the central water authority's oversight. Education: B.S. in Civil Engineering, Specialization in Environmental & Sanitary Engineering, Polytechnic University of PR. Professional Certifications: Licensed Engineer, Member of the Puerto Rico Engineers and Surveyors College, Licensed Level IV Water and Wastewater Operator.
Job Titles:
- Chief Housing & Compliance Officer
Josh began working at RCAP Solutions in 2020 as the Grants, Contracts and Compliance Manager, after serving as the District Director for Chairwoman Jennifer Benson in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. In this role, he managed overall district operations, workflow and college interns, represented the office at events, monitored district issues, and conducted outreach to constituents. Prior to this he served as intern to U.S. Representative Paul Tonko, in NY. Josh's state and federal government experience provides him with an understanding of RCAP's funding sources and the need for strict adherence to program fulfillment. In this role, he oversees RCAP's extensive housing programs, legislative activity, and acts as a liaison to our partner organizations to ensure open communication and positive outcomes. Josh holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy from the University at Albany, SUNY. His volunteer experience includes Turkey Hill Family Lions Club, where he served as Past President, City of Fitchburg Water and Wastewater Commission, Town of Shirley Zoning Board Member, New York State History Museum, and the Westminster Cal Ripken League.
Juan Campos Collazo joined RCAP Solutions in 2002 with 14 years of experience providing technical assistance to small communities as a PR Department of Health Regional Coordinator. Juan is also a Certified Water Operator and actively trains prospective operators in Puerto Rico. Advisory Boards and Task Forces: Active Member of the Puerto Rico Engineers and Surveyors College. Education: B.S. in Civil Engineering with a concentration in Sanitary Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico. Professional Certifications: Level IV Drinking and Wastewater Plant Operator, Emergency Response Plans (ERP) and Security Enhancements for Water Utilities, Vulnerability Assessments for Water Utilities, Conducting a Sanitary Survey of Small Water Systems, Certified Check Up for Small Systems Trainer (CUPSS).
Julie Carroll is a human resource operations professional with more than 25 years of experience in diverse business environments. Her portfolio includes proven achievements in business operations management, risk management, employee relations, training, and development. She is a self-starter; dependable, highly motivated and a thorough performer with a demonstrated ability to work with all levels of management to design, develop and implement strategies to improve business and employee performance, and can effectively inspire others to achieve individual and corporate goals. Julie is also a Real Estate Sales Agent with Keller Williams Realty, Inc. and brings community development experience as a former planning board member for the town of Boxborough, MA. Julie received her AAS in Liberal Studies at Middlesex Community College in Bedford, MA, and a Professional Human Resources (PHR) certification from the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) in Alexandria, VA. She brings a wide range of specialties in operations, HR implementation, employer and employee regulations, small business operations and employee engagement to her role as board member.
Job Titles:
- CAE
- Treasurer - Washington, D.C. / Maryland
Kenneth D. Reid, CAE, served as CEO of the American Water Resources Association, a scientific, educational association involved in research, planning and management from 1981-2019. He was a member of the American Society of Association Executives' Board and was named to the first class of Future Leaders. He is a recipient of the American Society of Association Executives' Key Award. Additional volunteer experience includes the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives Foundation Board, Past Chair of the Northeast Board of Regents of the Institute for Organizational Management, and Board of Trustees. He was the first elected US Association Member of the Board of Governors of the World Water Council, and Past President of the George Mason University Alumni Association Board of Trustees. He currently serves on several local boards within his community. Kenneth earned a MS in Environmental Studies from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, and a BS in Biology from George Mason University. He brings extensive knowledge of the water industry, along with organizational leadership, management, governance, community building, funding sources, strategic planning, branding, and executive succession experience.
Kevin Gardner joined RCAP Solutions in July 2023. His experience includes working at the Quonset Development Corporation as an Industrial Pretreatment Program (IPP) Inspector/Operator for several years. During his time at the Quonset Development Corporation, Kevin was responsible for performing inspections of commercial facilities to ensure compliance with wastewater discharge permits and pretreatment requirements. He operated, maintained, and inspected all components within Quonset Business Park's wastewater treatment and collection system. Kevin also has experience with lab duties, including sampling duties and pH calibrations. In addition, Kevin is also a volunteer firefighter with the Richmond-Carolina Fire Department in Rhode Island. Education: Johnson & Wales University, Business Administration studies (still attending). Certifications: Grade 3 Wastewater Operator by RIDEM, Grade 2 Collection System Operator by NEWEA, Grade 1 Lab Analyst by NEWEA.
Job Titles:
- Director of Information Technology
Kwame Ofori began his career at RCAP Solutions in 2018 as a System Administrator, surveying the IT environment, making equipment upgrades, troubleshooting system problems, and providing technical support for remote and local users. In 2019, he was promoted to an advanced System Administrator role, where he was able to develop a disaster recovery plan resulting in improved processes and ensure minimal data loss as well as provide continuous technological advancements to enhance the efficiency of RCAP's IT operations and processes. In his current role, Kwame is responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of the organization's IT strategies and direct the daily operations of the IT Department. He also leads the compliance team to address security and data compliance at the organization, which includes vulnerability assessment, innovation of IT infrastructure and breakdown of IT frameworks to increase staff compliance. Kwame received his MS in Information Technology/Cyber Security from Clark University in Worcester, MA, a BS in Computer Science from Worcester State University, Worcester, MA, and an AS in Computer Systems Engineering Technology from Quinsigamond Community College, Worcester, MA.
Job Titles:
- Chairman - Massachusetts
- Real Estate Broker at Afonso Real Estate
Laura McGee is a Real Estate Broker at Afonso Real Estate in Milford, MA. She is an active member of the Realtor Association of Central MA (RACM) with the Community Action Committee and has been instrumental in raising many thousands of dollars for RCAP Solutions families through her generous volunteer efforts. Prior to becoming a realtor, Laura was an Account Executive for WSRS/WTAG Radio and the Underwriting Accounts Manager for WICN Jazz Radio. She received her bachelor's degree in Telecommunications from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona. She has held several roles in the field of broadcasting and communications since 1986. She has served as President of the Tucson Chapter of Women in Radio and Television Board of Directors; held a position on the Uxbridge School Committee and as Vice President of the UHS Booster Club. She has a strong commitment to underprivileged individuals and is passionate about RCAP's mission and supporting the organization with her unique expertise in both housing and communications.
Job Titles:
- Regional Director ( ME / VT / NH )
Laurie Stevens joined RCAP Solutions in March 2019. She brings 20 years of experience in both the public and private sector in engineering, environmental and community development fields. She has served in several high-level management roles ranging from engineering, design, compliance and financial management of water and wastewater systems to real estate management. She has supervised planning, zoning, and engineering departments, overseen operations of public water systems and wastewater treatment facilities, and managed environmental projects from concept to construction. Education: M.S. Environmental Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute; B.S. in Civil Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Professional Certifications: Registered Professional Engineer NH & MA, Drinking Water Operator-Distribution 1, MA, Drinking Water Operator-Treatment 1, MA, NASSCO Certifications-National Association of Sewer Service Companies, PACP-Pipeline Assessment and Certification Program, MACP-Pipeline Assessment and Certification Program, LACP-Pipeline Assessment and Certification Program. Professional Affiliations: American Society of Civil Engineers, American Water Works Association, New England Water Works Association.
Lili Dagle joined the RCAP Solutions team in February 2021. She brings four decades of administrative experience, program coordination, and organizational excellence to her position. Her background in project management and drive towards success makes her a vital asset to the RCAP Solutions team. Education: Paralegal Certificate from Assumption College, Worcester, MA; Executive Secretary Certificate from Burdett School, Boston, MA.
Job Titles:
- Chief Elderly Services Officer & Director of Property Management
Linda began her career at RCAP Solutions in 1997. She has over 20 years of practical property management experience gained through hands on experience at Cottage Street and Hapgood Apartments in Athol. Linda oversees the day-to-day operations of the organizations property management portfolio. She is certified in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, HOME, is a certified Assisted Housing Manager and as a Fair Housing & Reasonable Accommodation Specialist.
Job Titles:
- Director of Housing Counseling & Financial Services
Lovette Chislom began her career at RCAP Solutions in 2009 as an Accounting Clerk, managing the account payables and receivables for the organization. She was promoted to Accounting Specialist, and began supporting the Home Modification Loan Program for the organization. Lovette was named Residential Loan Fund Manager in 2015 and was instrumental in elevating the program to a new level of competence with her enhanced communications, customer service, and organizational skills. In her five years of managing the program, she increased the number of loans by 109% and the dollar amount by 168%, closing 214 loans totaling over $6.6M, bringing a tremendous amount to the position by treating every client with compassion and professionalism. In October of 2020, Lovette was named Director of Housing Counseling and Financial Services. In this role, she will be responsible for overseeing the Housing Consumer Education Center, which serves as the organization's front door to the public for all housing and emergency assistance programs. This includes economic assistance programs, education and training programs such as first-time home buyer and financial empowerment classes, and counseling support including pre- and post-homebuyer services, and landlord/tenant assistance. Lovette brings over 20 years of experience to the position and is well respected by the Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC), the Home Modification Loan Program funder.
Madison Wellman joined RCAP Solutions in September 2021. His background includes economic development, nonprofit management, sales, research, and constituent outreach. He has experience working in the political arena, as well as with small business startups, technology, and development, which provides him with a vast understanding of diverse business and community challenges. Education: B.S. in International Business and Economics, Canisius College, Buffalo, NY.
Job Titles:
- Media Contact
- Vice President of Marketing & Communications
- Communications / Media Inquiries
Maegen joined RCAP Solutions in 2011, after 8 successful years as the Executive Director of the Wachusett Chamber of Commerce in Clinton, MA. Prior to this, she served as the Marketing Director for Grubb & Ellis Company and several other non profit organizations. Maegen holds a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Mass Communication from Westfield State College and a Masters of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communication from Emerson College. Maegen was named a 40 Under Forty honoree by the Worcester Business Journal and won an award in Newsletter Writing and Design by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. Among her numerous volunteer contributions, Maegen is an Executive Member of MassHire North Central Workforce Board, Board Member of the Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce, and former Chair of the Mass Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.
Job Titles:
- Director of Community & Environmental Resources
Mark is located in Vermont and has been with RCAP Solutions since 2015. He has over twenty years of experience in the drinking water profession. Prior to becoming Director of Community & Environmental Resources at RCAP Solutions, Mark provided training and technical assistance to small water and wastewater systems as the Vermont State Lead and also served for two years as Deputy Director. Mark has experience working on drinking water and stormwater projects, water treatment, sustainable water system operation, and source water protection. Before joining RCAP Solutions, Mark was responsible for all aspects of Safe Drinking Water Act compliance in his role as a water quality engineer for a large private, publicly listed water utility that owned and operated drinking water systems throughout California. He has also worked for a small municipal system in Maine, eventually becoming their chief treatment plant operator and laboratory director. Professional licenses: certified in Drinking water distribution and treatment as well as cross-control and backflow prevention. Education: B.S. in Civil Engineering from Northeastern University, Boston.
Martin Mistretta joined RCAP Solutions in March 2019. He brings more than 30 years of experience in the hazardous waste site remediation field, including operation and maintenance of treatment systems, environmental monitoring and data collection, subcontractor and construction oversight, excavations oversight, landfill operation, maintenance and monitoring, groundwater, surface water and sediment sampling, health and safety oversight, environmental data analysis and reporting, and regulatory compliance. He has served in a variety of management roles of field work at numerous contaminated sites, as well as supervising a variety of personnel, teams, and projects. He has managed public water system operations, consulting for small community public water systems including technical assistance, operation and maintenance, system upgrades and regulatory compliance. Martin's expertise will make a difference in New Hampshire communities that need vital assistance with their water systems. Education: Environmental Technologies Certificate, University of Massachusetts Lowell. Professional Certifications: NH Water Treatment Plant Operator License-Grade 2, NH Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator License-Grade 3, MA Wastewater/Industrial Treatment Plant Operator License-Grade 5C, NH Hazardous Waste Coordinator Certification.
Matt Cassedy joined RCAP Solutions in early 2018. He has 18 years of experience in water operations including extensive small systems training and technical assistance as well as in the role of a contract operator for dozens of small industrial water systems. Education: B.A. Social Sciences, Western Connecticut State University. Professional Certifications: Certificate in Utility Management, Level II certification in Drinking Water Treatment and Distribution, as well as cross connection surveys and backflow inspection in CT.
Purna Rao joined RCAP Solutions in 2021 bringing with him over 34 years of Environmental Engineering and over 22 years of Environmental Database Management experience. Within his Environmental Engineering experience, he was a key contributor to Environmental Protection programs like Drinking Water, Solid Waste Management, and Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA). He has been part of the groups awarded and honored on numerous occasions most recently being the United States Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Merit Award in September 2021, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Citation for Outstanding Performance Award in November 2020. Education: B.S. APAU, Hyderabad, India; M.S. Environmental, Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok, Thailand. Affiliations: National Society of Professional Engineers, Massachusetts Society of Professional Engineers, Licensed Site Professionals Association, Massachusetts Water Works Association, New England Water Works Association. Certifications: EIT Certification, FEMA Certification - Incident Command System ICS-100, National Incident Management System IS-700, Massachusetts Drinking Water Operator OIT T1 and D1.
Rebekah Novak joined RCAP Solutions in May 2019. She brings over 10 years of experience in both the public and private sector in engineering, wastewater operations, construction, and technical assistance. Her background includes reviewing and approving permit applications, GIS mapping, inspecting construction projects and commercial systems, equipment maintenance, recording data, performing on-site lab work, field sampling, and system maintenance for commercial wastewater treatment systems. She has experience working with a variety of departments, committees, agencies, contractors and the general public. Rebekah's expertise will make a difference in communities that need vital assistance with their drinking water and wastewater systems. Education: B.A. Civil Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth. Professional Certifications: E.I.T. Certified, Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade 5-C, Wastewater Collection Systems Operator Grade 4, Soil Evaluator, Wastewater Laboratory Analyst.
Job Titles:
- Director of Rental Assistance
- in 2014 As a Program Representative
Sally Nieves joined RCAP Solutions in 2014 as a Program Representative after working for South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC) in several roles ranging from sober housing to advocacy and rental assistance. Sally brings almost 20 years of experience in the affordable housing sector to her current position and is a strong advocate for underserved populations including multicultural and bilingual individuals. In her current role, she oversees a team of managers, program representatives, case workers, quality control compliance monitors, inspectors, and administrative staff. Subsidized housing programs supports RCAP's primary mission, which is to address the needs of lower income persons and communities while emphasizing self-sufficiency and economic opportunity leading to personal empowerment.
Job Titles:
- Deputy Director of Community & Environmental Resources
Seth Loht joined RCAP Solutions in 2015 and works on a variety of specialized mapping projects and provides overall Community & Environmental Resources team support for the field staff. He served as the GIS Specialist and then GIS Manager before his promotion to Deputy Director of Community & Environmental Resources. Prior to this he worked as a GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping and data management specialist for 13 years including working for the U.S. Navy computerized mission support and modeling for U.S. Navy submarine forces. Seth also worked as a GIS and GPS Specialist for engineering firms that provide infrastructure mapping services to communities of all sizes. Education: B.S. in Geography, Penn State University; M.S. in GIS, Arizona State University.
Job Titles:
- Director - Massachusetts
- Solutions Marketing Manager, Innovation at AMS
Susan Bachman is the Solutions Marketing Manager, Innovation at AMS in London, UK. A marketing professional with over 15 years of experience, she is a team player with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. She is detail oriented, and a deadline focused multi-tasker, versed in fast-paced creative environments. Susan brings a broad range of professional communications skills to her role as board member including implementing marketing strategies, market research, project management, website management, writing and editing, content management, graphic design, creative concepts, event management, public relations, product demo voice-overs, and vendor management, digital communications, and content management systems. Susan received her MA in Visual Communications at San Francisco State University, CA, and a BA in Graphic Design at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA. She received a certificate in Bank Marketing from the American Bankers Association, participated in the North Central MA Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership Institute, and the Emerging Leadership LAUNCH program with Fidelity Bank and Nichols College. Her lengthy volunteer experience includes work with the Boston Women's Leaders Organization, board membership with New England Financial Marketing Association (NEFMA), Marketing Strategic Planning committee with the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce, Women's Leadership Connection Board with the North Central MA Chamber of Commerce, Community Care Crew Chair and Heart Club Co-Chair at Fidelity Bank, and the United Way.
Job Titles:
- Deputy Director of Rental Assistance
Susie Rich joined RCAP Solutions in 2021 with over 25 years of experience working with rental and financial assistance programs and subsidized housing programs with South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC). In her current role, she oversees the subsidized housing department, supporting thousands of low-income families throughout central Massachusetts, ensuring the integrity, efficiency and effectiveness of the organization's rental assistance programs and operations. Susie received AS in Applied Business from Cincinnati State Technical Community College in Cincinnati OH, and attended the MetroWest Leadership Academy in Framingham, MA. She received her Supervision and Management certification from Nan McKay and Associates, Inc.
Job Titles:
- Board Member Timothy Grinham, a Commercial Banking and Lending Speci.
- Commercial Banking and Lending Specialist at S & P
- Director - Massachusetts
Timothy Grinham is a Commercial Banking and Lending Specialist at S&P Global Market Intelligence in Boston, MA. With his professional background in technology, banking, lending, and real estate, he brings over 20 years of experience in finance, investment, and sales management and offers extensive knowledge of working with federal funding sources, financing, managing customer accounts and portfolios, developing business opportunities, customer service and training to his role on the board. Timothy received his BA in Business Management from Johnson State College in Johnson, VT. His volunteer experience includes board membership with Worcester Community Housing Resources, the Town of Paxton Capital Improvements Committee, and as a mentor for SBA workshops and business incubation companies in and around MA.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director of Brockton Behavioral Health Facility at Boston Medical Center
Tracey Weeden is the Executive Director of Brockton Behavioral Health Facility at Boston Medical Center. She has extensive experience in the healthcare and nonprofit arena, with a background in social services, mental health, and case management. In her previous position at First Step of Sarasota, she focused on affordable substance abuse treatment. She has experience in managing a private practice as a psychotherapist, and is a former employee of RCAP Solutions, where she was a member of the leadership team, as Director of Counseling and Homeless Services. She is a self-published author and has volunteered for the City of Worcester's Human Rights Commission and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's suicide prevention initiative. Tracey earned a MS in social work at Boston University, and is working towards her Doctorate degree in Business Administration with a focus in Health Services Administration at Northcentral University. She brings a deep understanding of the programmatic, funding, and strategic needs of the organization, along with nonprofit management, fundraising and community outreach.
Tracey Weeden, MSW, LCSW/LICSW; RCAP Solutions Board of Directors, Vice Chair Tracey Weeden is the E...