Bainbridge Island, Wash. — Teragren, a North American manufacturer of environmentally-friendly bamboo flooring, panels, veneer, and worktops, recently named Caitlyn Kari as marketing communications manager, and Bryan Ripka as Northwest Regional Sales Manager.
“Caitlyn brings an outstanding focus to this new position based on her experience at one of the leading sustainable organizations in the wine industry. Her understanding of sustainable supply chains, social media and environmental ethics make her a great addition to the Teragren team,” said Teragren president, Mike Boshart.
“Bryan is an excellent addition to Teragren, bringing a terrific background in green building materials, with experience on both the manufacturer and retail side of the selling equation”, said Teragren president Mike Boshart.
In her new role, Kari will be responsible for representing the Teragren brand with the public and building products industry. Prior to joining Teragren, Kari was the communications & sustainability manager at Willamette Valley Vineyards. She also served on committees for several industry environmental leadership organizations, including as a founding steering committee member for Oregon Certified Sustainable Wine, and as a founding advisory committee member to the Oregon Winery Carbon Neutral Challenge.
In particular, Kari has significant experience in brand development, strategic communications strategy and sustainable product design. Kari graduated from Willamette University where she earned her BA degree in Anthropology and French.
As NW regional sales manager, Ripka will be responsible for representing all Teragren product categories – flooring, panels, veneer and worktops – in the Pacific Northwest.
Ripka’s background includes time at EcoTimber and Ecohaus in sales management and commercial development positions. He has significant experience with green building products and a strong record of customer relationship management, especially in the Architecture and Design market. Ripka graduated from Portland State University where he earned his BA in Urban Studies and Planning with a LEED focus.
Ripka volunteers with several regional organizations promoting sustainable efforts, including serving on the board of directors for Northwest Natural Resource Group and as a regional Steering Committee member for the US Green Building Council.