Our Team

David J. Powers & Associates consists of a tight-knit team of professional environmental planners who specialize in providing comprehensive environmental consulting and impact analysis services to public agencies and private developers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and California.

Our staff uphold a fundamental principle of providing high quality and objective environmental analysis, while developing innovative mitigation and impact avoidance solutions. We are experts at managing projects through the environmental process, and are often hired for our ability to deliver complex projects with aggressive schedules and multi-stakeholder involvement on-time and on-budget.

NB. Team members below are listed alphabetically.

Will Burns

AICP, Principal Project Manager | VP

Will joined DJP&A in 2003 and has a deep understanding of CEQA and NEPA and has extensive experience preparing Environmental Impact Reports (EIR), Initial Studies, and Environmental Assessments. Among his many achievements, he was the Project Manager for the preparation of the Envision San José 2040 General Plan EIR which required substantial coordination with City Staff, various service providers, and other City consultants to ensure the EIR was completed on time and under budget. Will has also served as Project Manager on other important planning endeavors including the Morgan Hill Downtown Specific Plan, which planned for increased density and mixed uses in a 20 block area adjacent to the City’s Caltrain Station. Since 2016, Will has managed projects out of our Oakland office.

Will is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), American Planning Association, and Association of Environmental Professionals. He holds Bachelor degrees in Environmental Studies and Global Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

In his spare time, Will enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, gardening, and watching the 49ers.

Will can be contacted directly at (510) 902-5851 or by email.

Akoni Danielsen

President

Akoni has 21+ years of experience working in land use planning and environmental impact analyses. Before joining DJP&A in 2010, Akoni worked for the City of San José for 13 years, most recently as Principal Planner, where he was responsible for the City’s preparation of CEQA and NEPA documents, as well as managing the City’s environmental review, historic preservation, urban runoff management, and green building policy programs. During his time with the City, he managed the preparation of over 40 program- and project-level Environmental Impact Reports, and participated in the preparation of the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Plan.

Akoni has overseen the environmental impact analysis of hundreds of projects in dozens of jurisdictions, including: the City of Santa Clara General Plan 2010-2035Samsung Office North San Jose Campus, Bay 101 Casino, North First and Brokaw Corporate Campus, Morgan Hill Downtown Parking Garage, Daly City Westlake Mixed-use Project, City of San Mateo E. 4th Street Mixed-use Project, Redwood City 2580 El Camino Real Mixed-use Project, Mountain View 580 Clyde Office (Samsung) Project, Palo Alto 3223 Hanover Office Project, Valley Fair Mall Expansion, Santana Row Expansion, and the Silicon Valley Clean Water Wastewater Conveyance and Reliability Project.

Akoni earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Geological and Environmental Sciences from Stanford University, and the degree of Master of City and Regional Planning (Environmental Planning emphasis) from the University of California, Berkeley. In his free time, Akoni enjoys fishing, hiking, watching sports, and spending time with his wife and many pets. He can be reached by phone at (408) 454-3406 or by email.

Desiree Dei Rossi

Project Manager

Desiree joined DJP&A in 2018 after graduating from Cal Poly University, San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Management and Protection and a concentration in Wildlife Biology. Her education provided her with hands on experience with local city projects and environmental issues.

At DJP&A, Desiree helps prepare various environmental review documents including Categorical Exemptions, Small Power Plant Exemption Applications with the California Energy Commission, Initial Studies, and Environmental Impact Reports. Her diverse project experience includes transportation projects such as the Amendment to the San José Airport Master Plan EIR; utility and infrastructure projects including various Data Center projects; and community development projects such as the Veteran’s Memorial Senior Center/YMCA project in Redwood City. Desiree is a positive and diligent Associate Project Manager who excels at providing clear communication and quality environmental review.

In her free time, Desiree enjoys camping, traveling, and volunteering with wildlife rehabilitation centers and the Native Plant Society.

Desiree can be contacted directly at (510) 902-5853 or by email.

Shannon George

Principal Project Manager | VP

Shannon is an experienced Project Manager who has been in the environmental field for 20+ years. She graduated from San José State University with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and worked for another environmental firm before joining DJP&A in 2001. Since then, Shannon has managed the environmental review for many iconic projects throughout Silicon Valley, including the 49ers Levi’s Stadium, popular Santana Row shopping center, and bustling San Pedro Square Market. Other notable projects Shannon has managed include the CityView Plaza development in Downtown San José, Santa Clara University Five-Year Master Plan, and Santana West office development.

In her spare time, Shannon enjoys gardening, traveling, home improvement projects, and volunteering in her local community.

Shannon can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3402 or by email.

John Hesler

Principal Project Manager

Where do we start with John Hesler? John is DJP&A’s third employee, and joined in 1982 after he completed his undergraduate studies in Environmental Planning at San José State University. John immediately developed a focus on transportation, from roads and highways to transit and airports. With a 37+ year tenure at DJP&A, John is our “transportation guru,” and boasts successful environmental review for projects such as construction of the 18.7-mile California State Route 85, conversion of SR 237 and SR 87 from expressways to freeways, and construction of the VTA Light Rail system. John is one of DJP&A’s primary points of contact for on-call environmental consulting services to the Mineta San José International Airport, San José Department of Transportation, Santa Clara County Roads and Airports Department, and Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority.

Aside from his unparalleled transportation experience, John brings to the table a light-hearted energy that prioritizes building and maintaining professional relationships. Though this comes naturally to him, he has also found that positive interactions among team members facilitates compromise and results in better projects.

When not working on a deadline at DJP&A, John enjoys volunteering for a number of local non-profits.

To experience John’s good nature, give him a call directly at (408) 454-3424. If his line is busy, try his email.

Patrick Kallas

Project Manager

Patrick joined DJP&A in 2019 and works closely with staff to prepare environmental documents. He has experience writing CEQA and NEPA reports on freeway projects, railroad grade separations, California High Speed Rail projects, and development projects. He also has experience with field monitoring and research from his previous work at the Santa Clara Valley Water District and Jet Propulsion Laboratories.

Patrick holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management and Protection with a minor in Water Science from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Outside of work, you can find Patrick hiking, golfing, painting plastic models, playing board games, and swing dancing.

Patrick can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3432 or by email.

Maria Kisyova

Project Manager

Maria joined DJP&A in 2019 after graduating from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Management and Protection and a concentration in Environmental Policy. Her studies allowed for a hands-on experience in environmental analysis, with projects that included preparing a mock impact analysis for a housing development project and a proposal to assess impacts on bird populations from a large-scale solar power facility. During her time as a student, she interned at Templeton Community Services where she developed and oversaw water conservation and recycling programs. Prior to starting with DJP&A, Maria worked at Family Supportive Housing where she gained a greater knowledge of community issues along with experience in public outreach and event coordination.

At DJP&A, Maria works closely with staff researching and preparing environmental review documents. Her educational background and excellent communication skills makes her a valued team member at DJP&A. Maria has worked on a variety of projects, including residential/mixed-use developments, commercial/office developments, parks, and data centers. She also has experience working on larger-scale program-level documents. Notable projects Maria has worked on include the Lillian Commons Medical Campus in Morgan Hill and the San José Flea Market Rezoning Project.

Outside of work you can find Maria lifting weights, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.

Maria can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3426 or by email.

Michael Lisenbee

Senior Project Manager

Mike joined DJP&A in 2006 after graduating from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies. Since then, he has prepared environmental documents in compliance with both CEQA and NEPA for highly complex projects, including the Communications Hill Residential Development in San José, which consists of 2,200 residential units and 1.44 million square feet of industrial uses, as well as single-use bag reduction ordinances that cover San José, Alameda County, and West Contra Costa County.

Aside from typical residential and commercial/retail projects, Mike specializes in solid waste infrastructure projects such as landfills, material recovery and recycling facilities, and waste to energy facilities. Many of these projects are located near sensitive habitats adjacent to the San Francisco Bay and environmental review requires special knowledge of the laws and regulations governing these areas. Mike also has expertise in completing environmental review for large data center facilities, which house computer servers in secure and environmentally controlled structures and present unique environmental challenges related to energy use and emissions of air quality pollutants.

Mike can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3401 or by email.

Demetri Loukas

Principal Project Manager

Demetri graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo with a degree in Ecology and Systematic Biology. Working as a Biological Technician for the National Park Service out of college, he transitioned to a career in planning with DJP&A in 1998. His diverse project experience includes environmental review for transportation projects, schools, field and stadium lighting projects, quarry and other industrial development, commercial/retail projects such as IKEA, and General Plan amendments. He is one of DJP&A’s in-house experts on interchange, bridge, and other transportation-related projects. With his background in systematic biology combined with his planning expertise, Demetri approaches his projects in a holistic manner that ensures a comprehensive and thorough environmental analysis.

Demetri is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys biking, fishing, hunting, golfing, and hiking.

Demetri can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3422 or by email.

Mimi McNamara

Associate Project Manager

Mimi McNamara joined DJP&A in 2022 after previously working as a technical air quality and greenhouse gas specialist in the private sector. She has an extensive experience with both subject areas and has prepared numerous technical reports to support environmental documentation prepared pursuant to CEQA and NEPA.

At DJP&A, Mimi provides technical support and expertise pertaining to air quality and greenhouse gas emissions and works closely with staff to prepare environmental review documents. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and Management from the University of California, Davis. Outside of work you can find Mimi trying new baking recipes or sightseeing along the coast.

Mimi can be reached directly at (408) 454-3430 or by email.

Matthew Moore

Project Manager

Matthew joined DJP&A in 2019 with an undergraduate degree in Political Science from the University at Albany’s prestigious Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy, and earned a Master’s in Urban Planning at San José State University in 2022. Matthew’s undergraduate studies and experience working for elected officials and the United States government make him an effective collaborator in the political and regulatory realms. In his previous position at Hoffman Southwest, Matthew managed utility network inspections and provided localized remediations for public and private clients.

At DJP&A, Matthew works alongside fellow staff researching and preparing environmental review documents. Notable projects Matthew has worked on include San Francisquito Creek Bank Stabilization, 160 El Camino Real Hotel, and La Paloma to Robleda Off-Road Pathway.

Outside of work, Matthew has a passion for triathlons, snowboarding, music, and literature.

Matthew can be contacted directly at (510) 902-5857 or by email.

Carolyn (Neer) Mogollon

Project Manager

Carolyn joined DJP&A in 2019. She is a professional planner certified by the AICP with experience preparing numerous environmental documents pursuant to CEQA and NEPA for development projects and planning policies throughout California. Carolyn also has experience providing contract planning services to local government agencies and assisting in the documentation and recordation of historic resources. Carolyn holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Environmental History from University of California at Berkeley and a Masters of Urban Planning Degree from San Jose State University.

At DJP&A, Carolyn manages projects and prepares environmental documents in compliance with CEQA and NEPA for commercial, residential, and mixed-use projects. Her educational background, local government agency experience, and project management skills make her an asset to DJP&A. Carolyn has worked on several notable projects including Google Landings, San José 2030 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategy, and 600 Ellis Street Office projects.

In her free time, Carolyn enjoys backpacking, baking, and woodworking.

Carolyn can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3437 or by email.

Natalie Noyes

Senior Project Manager

Natalie Noyes joined DJP&A in 2017. She holds a Masters in City Planning from San Diego State University, and is a professional planner certified by the AICP. Natalie has 15+ years of experience managing the preparation of environmental resource studies and planning documents pursuant to CEQA and NEPA for a variety of commercial and infrastructure development projects throughout California. Her favorite projects are often those that challenge her the most. Natalie was the Project Manager for several notable projects including the Heritage House & Valle Verde Housing project in Napa and the City-Owned Affordable Housing and Parking Garage project in San Mateo.

Natalie enjoys creating do-it-yourself masterpieces, spending time with her three children, and traveling with her husband.

Natalie can be reached directly at (510) 902-5852 or by email.

Ryan Osako

Administrative Assistant / Graphic Artist

Ryan joined DJP&A in 2018 and plays an integral role in the company as our Administrative Assistant, Graphic Artist, and as a member of our marketing team. He graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies. He works closely with our CFO on accounts receivable, prepares all the graphics for our documents and manages their reproduction, and assists with marketing needs

Outside of DJP&A, Ryan enjoys hiking, listening to music, playing basketball, and indulging in movies and TV shows.

Ryan can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3421 or by email.

Fiona Phung

Project Manager

Fiona joined DJP&A in 2016 after graduating from the University of California, Davis with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning. While attending UC Davis, Fiona interned for the University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources 4-H Youth Development Program where she was able to work with others to develop an animal welfare curriculum. Her internship and prior involvement in Calpirg has provided her experience in research as well as working in a collaborative environment.

Since joining DJP&A in January 2016, Fiona has prepared numerous environmental documents in compliance with CEQA for a variety of residential/mixed-use, commercial/retail, and office projects. Fiona has been the Project Manager on several notable projects including CityView Plaza, Winchester Ranch Residential, and 200 Park Avenue.

Outside of work, Fiona enjoys photography, being a crafty lefty, and traveling.

Fiona can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3427 or by email.

Tyler Rogers

Project Manager

Tyler joined DJP&A in 2017. He previously worked as an intern for the City of Mountain View’s Economic Development Division, and as erosion-control inspector for the Town of Atherton. While in college, he worked as a GIS intern for a local agricultural nonprofit in San Luis Obispo.

At DJP&A, Tyler manages and prepares environmental documents for both private and public sector projects in compliance with CEQA and NEPA. His educational background, field experience at active construction sites, and public sector work experience make him an asset to DJP&A. Tyler has been the Project Manager for several notable projects including the Sunnyvale Downtown Specific Plan Amendments, 3896 Stevens Creek Boulevard Office/Commercial Project in San José, and the JESD Faculty and Staff Housing Project in Daly City.

In his free time, Tyler enjoys skiing, surfing, and traveling.

Tyler can be contacted directly at (510) 902-5854 or by email.

Amber Sharpe

Project Manager

Amber’s eclectic range of work experience is reflected in the diversity of her project experience. Over the years, Amber has experience working for environmental and engineering firms where she was able to garner a comprehensive outlook on the many facets of the planning field. After joining DJP&A in 2012, Amber has contributed to a wide variety of projects, including: 100+ unit high-density residential/mixed-use developments, residential subdivisions, commercial, schools, parks and open space, a LED billboard, and a data center. On a larger scale, Amber has also prepared program-level Environmental Impact Reports, including the North Bayshore Precise Plan for the City of Mountain View and Morgan Hill General Plan Amendments to allow for residential developments.

Amber holds a Bachelor of Arts in Geography from the University of California, Berkeley and a Master of Science in Environmental Management from the University of San Francisco. Amber enjoys hiking, traveling, and sporting events.

Amber can be reached at (408) 454-3409 or by email.

Martha Silveira

Chief Financial Officer

Martha joined DJP&A in 1991 and is deeply familiar with the culture and operational aspects of the firm. She manages the firm’s finances, employee benefits, and office administration. She is responsible for all aspects of financial matters for the firm, which includes: accounts receivable, accounts payable, client billing, cash and accrual financial statements, payroll, and analyzing financial data. In addition, she is responsible for various human resources tasks, including purchasing and administering health insurance plans and administering the company’s 401k plan. Martha is also responsible for managing the company’s corporate insurance policies.

Outside of DJP&A, Martha’s interests include camping and spending time with her family.

Martha can be contacted by phone at (408) 248-3500.

Nick Towstopiat

Associate Project Manager

Nick joined DJP&A in 2021 after previously working in the public sector for multiple planning agencies in Santa Clara County. In his previous positions, he was responsible for processing planning permits, conducting plan checks, and providing excellent customer service to applicants. From this experience, Nick has become skilled at working with developers, public agencies, and other consultants. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning degree with an additional certificate in Environmental Planning from San Jose State University.

At DJP&A, Nick assists in preparing various environmental review documents ranging from Categorical Exemptions to Environmental Impact Reports. In his free time, Nick enjoys traveling, outdoor activities, sports, and reading.

Nick can be reached directly at (408) 454-3407 or by email.

Connor Tutino

Associate Project Manager

Connor joined DJP&A in 2019 after graduating from California State University, East Bay with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. His studies prepared him to enter the environmental services industry through hands-on projects and a well-rounded set of courses covering various environmental issues such as biology, atmospheric science, geology, hydrogeology, environmental health, and environmental law. Before coming to work for DJP&A, Connor interned with the East Bay Regional Park District where he performed biological field surveys, worked on habitat restoration projects, and co-authored an article on California Red-legged Frogs that was published by the Western Wildlife Journal in 2019.

At DJP&A, Connor helps prepare various environmental review documents ranging from Categorical Exemptions to Environmental Impact Reports. Connor is a team player, assisting fellow staff with their projects, aiding in marketing tasks, and preparing several Statement of Qualifications for on-call consulting.

In his free time, Connor enjoys exploring, playing guitar, exercising, games, and spending time with friends and family.

Connor can be contacted directly at (510) 902-5856 or by email.

Amy Wang

Project Manager

Amy joined DJP&A in 2016 after graduating from the University of California, Davis with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning, focusing in City Regional Planning.

At DJP&A, Amy manages and prepares environmental documents for both private and public sector projects in compliance with CEQA. Amy has been the Project Manager for several notable projects throughout the Bay Area, including Fountain Alley Commercial in Downtown San José, 10th/Chestnut Commercial in Gilroy, and Fire Station 16 Replacement in San Carlos.

Her educational background, strong work ethic, and love of learning make her an asset to DJP&A.

Outside of work, Amy enjoys hiking, traveling, and visiting art exhibits.

Amy can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3423 or by email.

Kristy Weis

Principal Project Manager | VP

Kristy joined DJP&A in 2003 and has a wide breadth of experience preparing environmental documents in compliance with CEQA. Kristy’s strong organizational and project management skills enables her to effectively manage complex projects. She was the Project Manager for several notable projects including the Sunnyvale Downtown Specific Plan Amendments, Vallco Town Center Specific PlanMain Street CupertinoAvaya Stadium, and Newby Island Sanitary Landfill expansion. Kristy also has experience preparing the environmental analyses for Election Code 9212 reports. Kristy is extremely responsive and strives to provide excellent client service.

Kristy graduated from both the University of California, Santa Cruz and San José State University and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies and a Master’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning. In her spare time, Kristy enjoys going to the local farmer’s market, cooking and baking with her kids, and volunteering.

She can be contacted directly at (408) 454-3428 or by email.

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David J. Powers & Associates, Inc.

Environmental Consultants and Planners

San Jose (Main) Office

1871 The Alameda, Suite 200
San Jose, CA 95126
Phone: (408) 248-3500
Email: info@davidjpowers.com

Oakland Office

1736 Franklin Street, Suite 400
Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 902-5850
Email: wburns@davidjpowers.com

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