Ash Gillis

A renowned expert in human dimensions of environmental sustainability, Ash (Ph.D.) leads the strategy and design for a range of customer-centric utility programs—working to provide innovative solutions to utilities’ energy transition challenges. Ash applies expertise to develop engagement strategies that increase customer satisfaction, deepen rapport between customers and their utility, and help to achieve energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction goals.

Ash works closely with ICF’s program implementation teams, marketing teams and Sightline Analytics team to apply data-driven, evidence-based insights to the development of marketing and engagement strategies for residential and commercial demand-side management programs. They also provide consultation on a suite of ICF’s qualitative and quantitative customer research offerings, from interviews and focus groups to conjoint analysis and user testing. With expertise in environmental and social equity and a dedicated service background in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), Ash applies an energy equity lens to their work, designing program strategies that engage and build trust with hard-to-reach, disenfranchised customers.

As a proven thought leader, Ash has published a wide array of peer-reviewed articles and white papers, served as keynote speaker and presenter to various stakeholder groups, and held several leadership roles in academic organizations focused on human dimensions of sustainability, environmental justice, and equity and inclusion.

Prior to ICF, Ash was a Research Fellow in Vanderbilt University’s Climate Change Research Network, holding joint positions in Vanderbilt’s Business School, Law School, and Department of Earth and Environmental Science.