Kurt Kniel

Kurt Kniel has diverse work experience in the field of sustainability and energy efficiency. Starting in 2008, Kurt worked as an Event Organizer for the U.C. Merced Green Club, where they organized and planned campus events to promote environmental awareness and sustainability. In 2011, Kurt joined Strategic Energy Innovations as a Sustainable Communities Intern, aiding in the development of a Climate Action Plan for multiple cities and generating energy efficiency and renewable energy training programs. That same year, Kurt also worked at California State University, Chico as a Campus Assistant, auditing lighting fixtures and strategizing energy-efficient measures. Kurt then joined Build It Green in 2013 as a Senior Project Associate for the AC Quality Care program, overseeing contract tracking, program protocols development, and acting as a point-of-contact for HVAC contractors. Kurt later assumed the role of Program Manager in 2017, overseeing the daily management of the GreenPoint Rated Program. Most recently, in 2022, Kurt became a Senior Manager of Operations at Build It Green.

Kurt Kniel obtained their B.S. in Earth Systems Science from the University of California, Merced, where they focused on Hydrologic and Climate Sciences. Kurt then went on to pursue an M.S. in Environmental Science PSM (Professional Science Masters) with a specialization in Sustainable Development & Technology at California State University, Chico. In addition to their formal education, Kurt has acquired various certifications throughout their career. These include certifications such as Community Emergency Response Team from the City of Walnut Creek, Home Energy Score Assessor from the Department of Energy, GreenPoint Rated New Home Rater and Certified Green Building Professional from Build It Green, and Building Analyst Professional from the Building Performance Institute, Inc. Kurt has also obtained an Amateur Radio License from the Federal Communications Commission.