Mike Werner

CEO

Mike has been with Qualterra (formerly NuPhY & Ag Energy Solutions) for over 3 years.  In that time the Company has made major strides in the areas of science, engineering, and commercialization of high through-put Controlled Environment Horticulture systems, biomass processing/carbon sequestration, and molecular diagnostics. Prior to his time with Qualterra, he spent 5 years as Chief Executive Officer of a software company focused on fintech, sales enablement solutions, digital marketing, and parking. Much of Mike’s career has been spent building businesses and partnerships in agriculture sustainability, software, venture capital, real estate/asset management, and pharmaceutical/biotech industries. He has served in a diverse set of leadership roles including sales, marketing, training, finance, human resources, and executive leadership. Mike has a passion for spending time with his family skiing, fly fishing, cooking, and hiking.

Dr. Amit Dhingra

Chief Science Officer

I accidentally ventured into the entrepreneurial space while being a professor of genomics and biotechnology at Washington State University. While working with my lab members, the insights of several farmers and nursery industry members guided the development of many innovative technologies for agriculture and sustainability. I have recently moved to Texas A&M University where I serve as the Head of the Department of Horticultural Sciences as well as continue my role as Professor of genomics and biotechnology working on very important crops such as grapes, pecans, pears, and tomatoes. My research focuses on the critical role soil health plays in ensuring plant performance in harsh environmental conditions.

Here is a list of my publications.

David Drinkard

VP, Biomass Processing

I am the VP of the Regeneration Division at Qualterra. I’m a Mechanical Engineer who has spent over 30 years bringing innovative concepts to the market. The first half of my career was focused on aerospace and advanced electronic cooling. The last eight years have focused on converting ag waste to valuable products that make farmers more profitable while having a significant positive impact on the environment.

Heather Murray

Senior Director, Human Resources

Heather joined Qualterra in February 2025 as the Sr. Director of Human Resources.  She will lead the shaping of Qualterra’s people strategy to drive growth, engagement, optimizing performance and organizational effectiveness.  Throughout Heather’s career, she has demonstrated a commitment to fostering a high-performance culture, driving business transformation, and championing innovative HR practices that align with an organization’s goals. Heather holds a Master of Arts in organizational leadership from Gonzaga University and a Bachelor of Business in human resources from Eastern Washington University.  Heather enjoys spending time with her family, boating, hiking, camping, and cooking.

Laura Wood

Director, Plant Production

Every day I use communication centric and science-based approaches to oversee our Plant Production Department in our micro-propagation lab and greenhouse facilities. I love the purpose and importance of working in the sustainable agriculture field. My degree is in Ecology and Evolution from the University of Colorado, and have a Master of Science degree in Biology from John Carroll University. I aim to tackle all day to day challenges with a critical, ethical, and equitable lens. In my free time, I enjoy running, swimming, and enjoying all the outdoor amenities that the Palouse region of Eastern Washington State has to offer.

Gina Valencia

Director of Greenhouse Production and Operations

Gina joined Qualterra in August 2024 as Operations Lead and was soon promoted to Director of Greenhouse Production and Operations. With 26 years of horticulture industry experience in inventory, production, shipping, selection, customer service, and quality control, she leads the Mabton greenhouse and is transforming operations to maximize productivity and deliver top-tier quality. Using LEAN principle she maximizes team performance for least waist ways. Gina enjoys her free time with family watching movies, reading, and cooking.