About
Because Building People, Builds Communities
FLIPP Inc creates an inclusive workforce that breaks down employment barriers. We open doors for justice-impacted individuals, veterans, BIPOC, women, youth, and the LGBTQ community. Our training gives low-income communities real access to renewable energy and entrepreneurship careers.
Who We Are
FLIPP Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in rural Dillwyn, Virginia. We’ve trained people in clean energy and entrepreneurship since 2020. Our programs now reach across Virginia, Georgia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, building skills and certifications that lead to real careers in energy efficiency and skilled trades.
Our Impact
We work to solve for the system, not just the silo, and our impact shows just that. We partner with community-based organizations, skilled trade employers, state and federal government entities, and local businesses to build robust programs and outcomes. Our participants receive in-the-classroom and on-the-job training and attain globally and nationally recognized industry credentials. Connecting with us, connects them to full-time, permanent positions with benefits and a clear career track. Register for a program, donate, spread the word, or become an employer partner to be part of the work.
Leadership
Led by experienced professionals, including co-founder and Executive Director Raye Elliott, FLIPP Inc brings expertise in government contracting, construction, and workforce development.
Staff Members
Meet the People Behind the Mission
Ms. Raye Elliott
Co-Founder and Executive Director
AJ McDonald
Co-Founder and CFO
Erika Reel
Senior Project Manager
Emily Axelbaum
Operations Manager
Drayco Elliott
Director of Guidance & Excitement (D.O.G.E.)
Staff Members
Meet the People Behind the Mission
Erika Reel
Senior Project Manager
Emily Axelbaum
Project Coordinator
Drayco Elliott
Director of Guidance & Excitement (D.O.G.E.)
AJ McDonald
Co-Founder and CFO
Ms. Raye Elliott
Co-Founder and Executive Director
Board of Directors
We are incredibly proud to have such amazing board members guiding our way. Their dedication, expertise, and passion are truly invaluable. Each member brings a unique set of skills and perspectives to the table, contributing to the success and growth of our students. Their unwavering commitment to our mission and vision inspires all of us to strive for excellence.
B David Hunter, EIT
Board Chair, Civil Engineer
Lieutenant Colonel, US Army (Retired)
FLIPP Inc relies heavily on highly decorated Retired Lieutenant Colonel, B. David Hunter, EIT (civil engineer) 21 years of experience in the construction & renewable energy sector. David oversees FLIPP Inc’s sustainability training pathway & serves as the solar training & sustainability program administrator.
Tanesha Hudson
Community Activist
Filmmaker, Activist and Community Leader Tanesha Hudson, is a lifelong Charlottesville resident that believes it is important for black people to know where we have been, and for us to have something to look forward to on where we want to go. Hudson started a women’s program to honor women of color fighting for social justice. Tanesha was also a 2020 UVA Fellow and hopes partnering with UVA will be beneficial to the community and help repair relationships that have been fraught in the past.
Akhenaton Mikell
CEO-Imani Star Development Inc.
Serves as the Principal of Imani Star Development Inc a Philadelphia, PA 501c3 Nonprofit established in 2002. Imani Star Development focuses on assisting the youth of Philadelphia with guidance and violence prevention programming. The organization currently runs a skilled trade apprenticeship program and also partners with the Urban Affairs Coalition through the Philadelphia Summer Work-Ready program.
Elliott Harding
Esq-Harding Counsel, PLLC
As founding partner of Harding Counsel, PLLC, Elliott Harding practices primarily on criminal defense representation throughout Virginia before all levels of State, Federal Trial and Appellate Courts. Attorney Harding also, handles civil rights claims, commercial litigation and small business development.
Mary Thigpen
Board Secretary
Mary is a US Army Veteran and the CEO of Conext 1 Veteran Woman Inc, a nonprofit organization committed to taking care of our homeless women veterans.
Coles Jennings
C3 Director of Corporate Sustainability
Coles combines 15 years of engineering experience with a passion for sustainability, energy conservation, and affordability.
Nicole Lee
Board Member
Advisory Board Member of Training & Programs
Lorenzo Wood
Board Member
Lorenzo is proud to to serve on the Flipp Board