BOARD MEMBERS
FPH2 is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors with diverse expertise in renewable energy, engineering, labor, and environmental advocacy.
Our governance structure ensures that FPH2 operates with transparency, integrity, and a focus on delivering long-term value to the public. Learn more about our leadership and guiding principles.
R. Rex Parris
Chairman
City of Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris is an exceptional, innovative leader. With a strong sense of dedication to public service, he tirelessly works towards enhancing the quality of life for the residents of Lancaster, transforming the City into a beacon of progress, sustainability, and prosperity.
Newell Ruggles
Vice Chairman
Newell W. Ruggles has been a Council Member for the City of Industry, California, since 2015. In this role, he focuses on legislative decisions and initiatives that drive economic growth and support the community. He also serves as a Board Member for the Successor Agency to the Industry Urban-Development Agency, contributing to redevelopment efforts that ensure the city’s continued progress. Ruggles remains dedicated to public service and fostering opportunities for the City of Industry’s residents and businesses.
Aura Vasquez
Board Member
Aura Vasquez is an environmental and social justice advocate known for her work with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP). Appointed by Mayor Eric Garcetti in 2017, she became the youngest and first immigrant to serve on the Board of Commissioners.
Tanya Peacock
Board Member
Tanya Peacock is a distinguished leader at EcoEngineers, where she plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainable energy solutions. With over a decade of experience in the renewable energy sector, Tanya has been instrumental in developing and implementing strategies that drive decarbonization and foster innovation in clean energy projects. Her expertise in regulatory compliance, carbon management, and sustainability initiatives has positioned her as a key figure in shaping the future of eco-friendly energy practices.
Jack Brouwer
Board Member
Dr. Jack Brouwer is a prominent figure at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), holding multiple leadership roles. He serves as the Director of the Advanced Power and Energy Program (APEP) and the National Fuel Cell Research Center (NFCRC). Additionally, he is a Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering with a joint appointment in Civil and Environmental Engineering.
Robert Hertzberg
Board Member
Robert Hertzberg served as the Speaker of the California State Assembly and Majority Leader of the State Senate, where he brokered major legislative deals, including the largest water agreements, plastic recycling initiatives, and education construction bonds. His environmental work earned him recognition as one of “50 People Who Could Save the Planet” by The Guardian (UK) and the World Bank’s “Lighting Africa” award for a project in Rwanda. He also won the “Wind Made Award” from the United Nations for his UK company that combined solar and wind energy technologies, and was named a "Top 100 Low Carbon Pioneer" by CNBC Business. Hertzberg’s efforts have been widely recognized for his innovation in advancing clean energy and addressing climate change.
INTERNAL TEAM
Jason Caudle
CEO
Jason Caudle has been instrumental in positioning Lancaster as a leader in renewable energy. As City Manager, he helped Lancaster achieve its goal of becoming a net-zero city in 2019. Today, Lancaster is a pioneer in renewable hydrogen deployment, committed to becoming the nation’s first hydrogen city through innovative public and private partnerships.
Alexus Merino
Director
As Assistant Director for FPH2, Alexus Merino focuses on alternative green energy efforts, particularly hydrogen development, bringing her expertise and passion to our mission. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from California State University Northridge (CSUN) and a master's degree in Integrated Design, Business, and Technology from the University of Southern California (USC), providing her with a comprehensive skill set to tackle complex problems and drive innovative and sustainable solutions.
Ashley Wegner
Coordinator
Ashley joined the team with a strong background in project management, having honed her skills in the geotechnical engineering industry after graduating with a Bachelor of Science from the University of California, Santa Cruz. She brings a fresh perspective to our team with her knack for detail and her passion for solving complex projects. Her commitment to sustainability and determination to advance green hydrogen technology and clean energy solutions make her an invaluable asset to FPH2.
Paul Whang
Coordinator
Paul Whang is a dynamic leader in sustainability, holding a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a Master of Science in Sustainability from the University of Sydney. With rich experiences in South Korea, Australia, and Singapore, Paul is adept in international energy markets and policies. His profound commitment to combating the climate crisis drives his enthusiasm for the transformative potential of green hydrogen. At First Public Hydrogen, Paul is eager to leverage his international expertise to pioneer sustainable energy solutions that promise not only a decarbonized but also a thriving future.
Adrienne Howard
Coordinator
Adrienne is passionate about process efficiency, organization, and building strong connections with clients, teammates, and the community. In her previous roles with the City of Lancaster, she supported Housing and Economic Development, contributing to initiatives that drive community growth and sustainability. Before joining the local government sector, Adrienne worked in the finance industry, specializing in operations and quality. Her diverse experience equips her with the skills to streamline processes and enhance collaboration within the FPH2 team.
MEMBERS
Join the movement to advance renewable hydrogen and become a key part of FPH2’s mission. Membership offers access to exclusive updates, partnership opportunities, and the ability to shape the future of clean energy.
Benefits of Membership:
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Engage in strategic discussions and decisions.
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Collaborate with like-minded stakeholders.
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Gain insights into groundbreaking hydrogen initiatives.
How to Join:
Becoming a member is easy. Contact us at hydrogen@fph2.org. We look forward to welcoming you to our growing network of innovators and leaders.