Innovate DuPage, IL
As a Loyola University Chicago graduate with degrees in Biology and Environmental Science, Ricardo has worked across the country in roles that helped develop his systems thinking, behavior change, leadership, and marketing and communications skills. In May of 2016, Ricardo graduated with an M.S. degree in Environmental Management from the University of San Francisco where he completed coursework focusing on Environmental Law & Policy and Sustainable Business. Ricardo’s notable work in sustainability began when he worked as a Green Operations Specialist for San Francisco International Airport’s Environmental Operations division where he managed both the Green Business and Construction & Demolition Debris Management Programs and supported other airport environmental programs and initiatives such as zero waste to landfill, green cleaning, and airport tenant water conservation. Ricardo was honored as a 2018 GreenBiz 30 Under 30 while working at San Francisco International Airport for his work on the Airport’s Zero Waste initiative. From 2020 – 2025, Ricardo was the Air and Pollution Prevention Division Manager for Cook County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability where he worked to reduce air pollutants, such as greenhouse gas emission and criteria pollutants, from businesses that required air permits throughout the County. Ricardo led a $10 million American Rescue Plan Act funded effort to establish the County’s first Pollution Prevention program for businesses called the BRITE Program. Ricardo now works for Innovation DuPage as the Program Manager for the organization’s Clean Energy Incubator. He is also an Adjunct Professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology’s Stuart School of Business where he teaches Industrial Ecology and the Circular Economy.
