Central California Region
Central California Region
Central California Region
USGBC Central California is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that educates, inspires, and provides resources to build and maintain resilient and sustainable communities in Central California, covering Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, and Tulare County.
We believe in better buildings; places that complement our environment and enhance our communities. Places that give people better, brighter, healthier spaces to live, work, and play. We believe in people: people who come together, collaborate, learn, and inspire each other.
Mission: Engage San Joaquin Valley communities in the transformational development and promotion of ecologically healthy built environments.
Vision: Empowered local communities that foster resilient solutions in the built environment.
Call for nominations for our local board that is due November 7th!
Leadership
Board of Directors:
- Aya Shitanishi, Partner, Teter AE, President
- Sheila Hakimipour, Principal, Urban Diversity Design, Secretary
- Ellis Vance, Retired Educator, Treasurer
- Andres Jauregui, Director of Gazarian Real Estate Center, Associate Professor, CSU Fresno, Member-at-Large
- Anthony Williams, County of Fresno Facilities, Member-at-Large
- Uris Giron, Fresno State Interior Design, Member-at-Large, liasion to USGBC-CA board
Staff:
- Laura Gromis, Executive Director
- Emiliano Fajardo, Outreach and Event Fellow
History
USGBC Central California was formed in 2005, driven by the desire to network and learn from one another, as well as explore the concept of sustainability and its impact on the building industry. The initiative to start this new organization was led by the CSI Fresno Chapter, and USGBC Central California achieved non-profit status in 2007.
In 2008, the U.S. Green Building Council awarded the Central California region full chapter status, allowing us to promote a mission to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built, and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life.
In 2016, USGBC Central California became an aligned chapter of USGBC National and is developing its own regional approach to increase sustainability in Central California in the built environment.
In 2025, USGBC Central California signed a partnership MOU with the newly formed USGBC California, formerly USGBC Los Angeles. With this partnership, USGBC Central California is able to increase capacity through training and resource offerings and increase exchange with the statewide green building network.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
Our workshops, events, and hands-on sessions focus on sustainability, green building practices, and leadership in the built environment. Join us for expert-led learning opportunities, networking, and real-world strategies that empower professionals to drive change and advance sustainable solutions in the industry.
Programs
- Green Building Education
- Green Building Tours
- Green Drinks
- Building Innovations Summit
- Bike Safe Fresno
Become a Member!
Become a Member!
Our community is authentic, inspiring, and purpose-driven, and we want you to be part of it! We work alongside each other with a sense of collective purpose, a focus on higher learning, and an ever-present awareness of the impacts of the work we do.
Join our Central California Community Hub!
Ready to connect and collaborate? Access the Central California Community Hub today and join a network of passionate individuals driving positive change. Be part of the conversation, share ideas, and help shape the future!
Volunteer!
We’re seeking passionate volunteers to contribute to impactful projects, events, and programs in the Central California area. By volunteering, you’ll expand your professional network, gain hands-on experience, and help transform our built environment. To get involved, please submit your interest through our volunteer form.
