FirstLight, a prominent clean power producer, developer, and energy storage company, is set for a leadership transition with the departure of its President and CEO, Alicia Barton, effective December 1, 2023. Stepping into the role is the current Chief Operating Officer, Justin Trudell, known for his extensive experience and successful tenure leading operations at FirstLight.
Barton, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the company's strategic vision over the past three years, will be leaving to pursue a new role within the clean energy industry after the New Year. During her tenure, she collaborated closely with Trudell, who, as Chief Operating Officer, demonstrated his commitment to driving operational excellence and implementing growth initiatives.
Expressing confidence in the transition, Barton stated: "It is with great pride and total confidence that I pass the torch to my esteemed colleague Justin Trudell to lead FirstLight as they continue to advance the vision and growth strategy we’ve brought forth as a team."
Trudell, who assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer in 2021, has been a key figure at FirstLight, having previously served as Vice President of Operations. Under Barton's leadership, Trudell played a crucial role in the integration of H2O Power and oversaw significant expansions in the company's clean energy and energy storage portfolio.
Reflecting on the upcoming transition, Trudell remarked: "After nearly six years at FirstLight – learning the ins and outs of our projects, getting to know our incredible people, and for the past three years, working alongside a force like Alicia Barton – I couldn’t be more proud or prepared to take on this next chapter."
The Board of Directors expressed gratitude for Barton's contributions and welcomed Trudell as the new President and CEO, expressing confidence in his ability to lead FirstLight through the next phase of growth. Patrick Samson, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Real Assets Investments at PSP Investments, stated: "We are very pleased to welcome Justin as FirstLight’s new Chief Executive Officer. He is a dynamic business leader whose exceptional track record and first-hand knowledge of FirstLight make him ideally positioned to lead the company through this next chapter."
Prior to joining FirstLight, Trudell served in the United States Navy and later held progressive roles with Brookfield Renewable Power. He actively serves on the Board of Directors of the National Hydropower Association and is an Independent Director at GEOKON, Inc. He holds a BS in Economics from the United States Naval Academy and an MBA from the University of New Hampshire.
