He has been the interim, and founding, president of the Hawaiian Chapter of the Association for Energy Engineers (AEE). This non-profit professional organization aims to provide information and networking in the dynamic fields of energy engineering and management, renewable and alternative power generation, energy sustainability, and related areas.
His proactive approach has seen him involved in projects as diverse as promoting energy conservation among Hawaii's small farmers; assisting with energy auditing curriculum development for a local college; and kick-starting the Department of Education's ambitious Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Master Plan. This innovative program seeks to identify, develop, and act on long-range sustainability, energy efficiency and energy revenue opportunities for the DOE, at all of its schools and premises.
Ray has also worked tirelessly to secure funding that would boost the AEE certification for Hawaii's workforce, in order to better serve the state's clean energy transformation. He was nominated as for a 2012 Legend in Energy award at the AEE.
Additionally Ray volunteers with other non-profit organizations, having recently been involved in initiating a Department of Sustainability at the University of Hawaii's Leeward Community College. He has a particular interest in advancing the cause of ensuring access to renewable food and energy for all sectors of society, for the future prosperity of America. As such, he is a founding member of the Center for Sustainable Energy (www.cfse.org) – A Hawaii based 501(c)3 charitable non profit who's mission is to empower individuals in need by providing energy alternatives using the power of non profit, the sacrifice of donors, the passion of volunteers and the creativity that comes from community involvement.
This organization believes low-cost energy options for those most in need is good for the community, the economy the environment. Nowhere is this more important than for those living in low-income communities, and none are more in need than those living with the high-utility rates that are associated with island energy markets. The Center For Sustainable Energy’s works collaboratively with communities and local organizations to identify specific needs and to develop renewable energy solutions that are environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.
Away from work, Ray likes to keep active, enjoying surfing and helicopter flying.