Overview
The APAICS Energy & Commerce Summit brings together industry and community leaders alongside Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander members of Congress to discuss top-line energy concerns that are affecting the nation and AA & NH/PI community at large.
Panel topics can range from AA & NH/PI representation in the energy sector, challenges and opportunities with the energy transition, the future of mobility and transportation, as well as the potential effects of new energy infrastructure legislation, and what our partners are doing to adapt to these changing conditions.
The 2025 Energy & Commerce Summit will air virtually on July 23 on YouTube.
Interested in sponsoring the 2025 Energy & Commerce Summit? Please email sponsor@apaics.org.
Congressional Speakers
Tune into the virtual Summit to hear from our Congressional Speakers—Rep. Ami Bera (CA-06), Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Rep. Deborah Ross (NC-02), and Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13)—as they discuss the pressing energy and commerce issues affecting the country.
Panel Overview
The Changing Landscape of Transportation
As technology rapidly transforms how we move through the world, communities face new challenges and opportunities in creating accessible, sustainable, and inclusive transportation systems. This panel will explore innovations shaping the future—from autonomous vehicles to alternative fuel sources—while grounding the conversation in the lived realities of communities like Daly City, CA, and Honolulu, HI, where car dependency remains high. This panel will examine how to expand mobility options and discuss the policy shifts needed to ensure these advancements are equitable, environmentally responsible, and responsive to the needs of diverse populations.
Speakers:
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Sukh Kaur, San Antonio, Texas City Council Member, District 1
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Jacob Aki, Senior Public Affairs Manager, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines
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Robert Chiappetta, Director, Government Affairs, Toyota
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Jumana Masters, Program Manager, Sustainable Customer Experience, Global Sustainability, Delta Air Lines
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Moderator: Jarret Stoltzfus, Director of Infrastructure, Transportation, Arnold Ventures
Innovations in Modern Manufacturing
Manufacturing is undergoing a dramatic transformation. From advanced robotics and AI to smart factories and sustainable production, "Manufacturing 4.0" is redefining how goods are made—and who makes them. This panel will explore the cutting-edge innovations reshaping modern manufacturing and examine the broader implications for the workforce and consumers alike. How are companies adapting to new technologies? What skills will tomorrow’s manufacturing jobs require? And how will these shifts impact the quality, cost, and sustainability of the products we use every day? Join us for a forward-looking conversation on the future of manufacturing and its role in driving economic growth and consumer value.
Speakers:
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Sitaram Arkalgud, Vice President, Integration, Operations and Major Program, Tokyo Electron Limited
David R. Brousell, Founder, Vice President and Executive Director, Manufacturing Leadership Council
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Natalie Wilkinson, Vice President of Production Engineering, Vehicle Manufacturing Engineering, Toyota Motor North America
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Moderator: Lauri Ng, Principal, Mindset
The Future of Agriculture and Food Access
Agricultural innovation is accelerating at an unprecedented pace. From precision farming and climate-smart tools to advanced livestock management, new technologies are transforming the way food is produced—delivering higher yields, reducing the need for water, fertilizer, and pesticides, and lowering costs throughout the supply chain. These changes are driving greater efficiency and helping stabilize food prices, with major implications for food access and affordability. As climate pressures mount and consumer demand evolves, policy tools like the Farm Bill will also play a supporting role in shaping the landscape of modern agriculture. This panel examines how innovation, sustainability, and smart policy can collaborate to ensure a more secure and equitable food future.
Speakers:
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Steven Raga, New York State Assemblymember, District 30
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Lanon Baccam, USDA Appointee, Obama & Biden Administrations
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Sarah Brenholt, Director, International Government Affairs, Cargill
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Sarah Towles, Senior Director, Government Affairs, PepsiCo
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Moderator: Mike Glymph, Vice President, Government Relations, Monument Advocacy
The Evolving Demand and Landscape of Energy Production
As Asian Americans continue to lead in the early adoption of AI and other emerging technologies, the demand on our energy infrastructure is rapidly increasing. This panel will explore how the rise of AI, cryptocurrencies, and domestic manufacturing is reshaping energy consumption, straining current power grids, and driving innovations needed for a sustainable and equitable future. Panelists will examine technology, policy, and infrastructure solutions to meet the evolving needs of a tech-driven society, while also highlighting the critical role of AA & NH/PI communities—as innovators, advocates, and impacted populations—in shaping an energy transition that is not only efficient but inclusive and just.
Speakers:
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Norman Bay, Partner, Corporate & Financial Services, Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP
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Alia Hidayat, Senior Policy Analyst, Center for American Progress
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Lashelle Johnson, Senior Director of State Climate & Equity Policy, League of Conservation Voters
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Yvonne McIntyre, Vice President, Federal Affairs, PG&E Corporation
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Moderator: Jeanette Pablo, CEO, Climate Equity Foundation
Fireside Chat with Manish Bapna
Join us for a dynamic conversation on the future of clean energy with Manish Bapna, President & CEO of the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC).
Speakers:
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Manish Bapna, President & CEO of the National Resources Defense Council
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Moderator: Tania Laden, Vice President of Development & External Affairs, APAICS
Thank You to Our Partners!
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