As director of innovative technologies, Lester keeps abreast of the latest technology and energy efficiency trends and advances that can inform and enhance the development and delivery of current and future CEE projects. He also serves as a technical and program advisor to CEE projects and services and has been working on projects dealing with the residential and industrial energy efficiency.

Lester joined the CEE in July 2008. Previously, he was the associate dean of the BS:Visualization Program at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and a research associate with the University of Minnesota’s Underground Space Center. His work includes analysis of building foundation heat loss and weatherization program delivery of low-income weatherization programs.

Lester has a BS in chemistry from Haverford College, a master’s of mechanical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and a PhD in mechanical engineering from the University of Minnesota.