About BuildUp MN

Julia oversees several focus areas of the Minnesota Advanced Energy Codes Partnership, including management of the BuildUp MN energy code compliance program. In previous roles, she supported the Minnesota Air Source Heat Pump Collaborative, delivering training for residential HVAC contractors, conducting modeling and data analysis, and supporting utility and distributor engagement. Julia holds a BA in Physics from Wellesley College.

Eric manages the technical aspects of the Energy Codes Program within the Market Transformation department. In this role, he works closely with the state to support its goal of dramatically increasing the energy efficiency of new buildings over the next 15 years through updates to the state energy code and improvements in code compliance. His work includes identifying new technologies and strategies to incorporate into the code, conducting research and analysis to evaluate these innovations, and developing educational resources and training for key stakeholders.

Prior to joining CEE, Eric worked as a senior energy solutions engineer at Xcel Energy, where he focused on electrification strategies in gas-constrained territories and served on the IECC 2027 Residential Codes voting committees.

Sophia manages CEE’s Community Codes Support Program through the MN Advanced Energy Codes Partnership. Additionally, she supports commercial energy code compliance through resource and curriculum development and training for construction professionals and code officials. She also serves as the tribal nations' liaison for the MN Advanced Energy Codes Partnership, working alongside Minnesota's tribal nations to provide technical assistance for implementing energy code improvements for new and existing buildings.