Meet the Lumos Solar Team Members!

Scott Franklin – Founder, CEO

Scott Franklin is the Founder and CEO of Lumos Solar. He has led the company since 2006 in designing and producing innovative architectural solar products. His vision has helped redefine how solar can be integrated into the built environment, balancing performance, aesthetics, and sustainability.

Long before Lumos, Scott made his mark on the climbing world with pioneering first ascents and by founding Franklin Climbing Equipment. From iconic routes at New River Gorge, Smith Rock, and Rifle to countless ascents of El Capitan and Half Dome, he became one of the sport’s defining figures. His love for design and innovation fueled Franklin Climbing Equipment. A company which quickly became one of the most cutting-edge climbing brands of its time.

Scott has shared his journey and solar insights through multiple podcasts. On “The Enormocast”, he reflects on how climbing shaped his creative approach. Whereas on the “Ultra High Net Worth Clients” podcast’s episode “Turning Parking Lots into Beautiful Power Plants,” he explores overhead solar canopy design, aesthetics, and practical business models for architectural solar.

Outside of work, Scott continues his passion for outdoor adventures—backcountry skiing, climbing, and world travel—with his family. His creative design sensibility, environmental dedication, and leadership continue to drive Lumos toward a future where solar is seamless, elegant, and impactful.

Georgia Franklin – COO

Gea first built a career as a professional dancer before discovering climbing—a pursuit in which she quickly rose to become one of the strongest female climbers of her time. Gea made history for the longest “fall” in the blockbuster movie, Cliffhanger, with an epic 450′ fall!

Together with Scott Franklin, Gea co-founded Franklin Climbing Equipment. This is where her passion for design flourished. She focused on creating top performing apparel at Franklin Climbing, Turbo, and La Sportiva before launching her own active-wear line, GeaWear. This blend of creativity, discipline, and vision carried naturally into her leadership at Lumos Solar.

As COO and VP of Human Resources at Lumos, Gea plays a central role in shaping both the operations and the culture of the company. She ensures that the team is not only effective and aligned, but also supported and inspired. Her infectious energy, unshakable kindness, and high expectations set the tone and bar for Lumos’ workplace. And her strategic leadership helps drive the company forward.

Gea continues to climb at a high level, teach and practice dance, and bring out the best in those around her. She embodies the balance of strength, creativity, and compassion that defines Lumos.

Ryan Schaub – Director of Sales

Ryan has been integral to Lumos since the very beginning. He brought with him a career devoted to protecting the environment and connecting people to the outdoors. Before joining Lumos, he worked as a park ranger, lift operator, and later as a lead solar installer and operations manager. Each role reflected his commitment to sustainability and gave him the hands-on experience that grounds his work today.

As Director of Sales, Ryan blends this diverse background with deep technical knowledge to guide clients through every stage of their solar projects. His approachable style and dedication stand out—one client remarked that “Ryan went above and beyond” to answer design and performance questions and ensure they were confident in their investment.

For Ryan, solar isn’t just business—it’s purpose. He believes in solar’s ability to make a real difference for both people and the planet, transforming everyday spaces into sustainable energy solutions. His long history with Lumos and unwavering commitment to the environment make him a cornerstone of the company’s mission.

Dinesh Goundla – Director of Engineering

Dinesh loves working in solar because it brings together design, technology, and impact. With a passion for creating things that matter, he’s found solar to be the perfect space to scale meaningful innovation. His work is driven by the belief that solar can be both functional and beautiful. He wants to create solutions that inspire while making a real difference for people and the planet.

At Lumos, Dinesh leads engineering, project, and product development, overseeing everything from early-stage concepts to production. He thrives on bringing design, manufacturing, and technology together to transform ideas into finished products. Dinesh especially values the collaboration it takes across teams to bring innovative visions to life. His leadership ensures Lumos continues to set the standard for architectural solar solutions.

Outside of work, Dinesh enjoys hiking, rock climbing, and exploring Colorado with his daughter. Whether geeking out over maps and city planning, taking photos of wildlife and landscapes, or simply watching the world through his daughter’s eyes, he finds inspiration in everyday adventures.

Chris Beyer – Warehouse Manager

Every day, Chris shows up to Lumos with contagious energy, bringing kindness, positivity, and unmatched hard work to the warehouse. His steady presence helps create a sense of order in the middle of the inevitable chaos. And his leadership sets a healthy, productive tone for the entire team. As a father of four, Chris knows chaos well—and the lessons he’s learned as a parent guide his approach at work: understanding yet firm, hardworking yet fun.

With extensive warehouse experience, Chris thrives in an environment where moving parts and shifting priorities are the norm. At Lumos, he uses that expertise to keep operations running smoothly while continuing to make a meaningful impact for those around him. His ability to balance efficiency with empathy makes him the kind of teammate and leader you want on your side.

Chris is always chasing adventure. Whether exploring high in the mountains, crossing rivers, camping, hunting, or cheering on his kids passion projects, he brings the same energy and dedication to his family life as he does to Lumos. His love of the outdoors, his family, and his community make him an anchor in every sense of the word.

Phil Kao, PhD – Production Engineer

Phil plays a key role at Lumos as a Production Engineer. The role requires he work closely with both the assembly and engineering teams to keep projects moving smoothly. His focus on detail and quality ensures that every Lumos product meets the highest standards of performance and design.

He has been dedicated to mechanical engineering since his undergraduate experience at Purdue University where he received his bachelors in the field. Phil later when on to earn his PhD in mechanical engineering from University of Colorado, Boulder! With an extensive background in engineering and production, Phil bridges the gap between design and execution, helping transform ideas into reliable, real-world solutions. His problem-solving skills and commitment to precision make him an invaluable part of the Lumos team.

Outside of work, Phil can usually be found outdoors. Whether he is skiing or cycling, it is likely he’s really wishing for more snow. His love of adventure and the mountains reflects the same energy and dedication he brings to his work every day.

James Toomey – Design Engineer

James was born and raised in Rock Springs, Wyoming, where his love of the outdoors took root early. After earning both an Associate of Arts and an Associate of Science from Western Wyoming Community College in 2017, he went on to complete a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wyoming in 2019.

Following graduation, James worked in construction, gaining hands-on experience building roads and highways by testing soils, concrete, and asphalt. This foundation in infrastructure and materials gave him a practical, problem-solving perspective on engineering.

Since joining Lumos Solar in April 2022, James has focused on designing solar array layouts and collaborating with the sales team to deliver solutions that balance function and aesthetics. Most days find him deep in CAD modeling and drawings, translating technical precision into clean energy projects. Outside of work, James enjoys gaming with friends, fishing, camping, and catching live music or movies—always ready for an adventure, whether indoors or outdoors.

Jesse Franklin, PhD – Assistant Controller

Jesse Franklin brings a rare mix of analytical expertise and adventurous spirit to his role as Controller at Lumos Solar. Introduced to climbing through countless adventures with his dad, he went on to complete his first ascent of El Capitan at just 16. Since then, his dedication and talent have made him a strong and passionate climber, with deep roots in the sport.

Academically, Jesse pursued his love of mathematics with equal commitment. After earning his undergraduate degree in math, he went on to complete a PhD in Mathematical Sciences in Vermont. Even with the rigor of his doctoral studies, he always carved out time for his ravenous climbing appetite, balancing complex theory with real-world adventure.

To Jesse, Lumos approach to solar “just makes sense”—the places where shade is most needed are also the best places for solar. At Lumos, he applies this perspective, along with his mathematical precision and problem-solving skills, to strengthen the company’s financial and operational foundation. His combination of intellect, discipline, and lived experience makes him an invaluable part of Lumos’ leadership team.

Kara Stepanik – Community Outreach Specialist

A Colorado native, Kara has always been passionate about systems change in the realms of sustainability, zero-waste, and urban planning. After completing her degree in Urban Planning at Columbia University in 2024, she brought her knowledge of how cities can adapt and thrive into her work at Lumos Solar. For Kara, architectural solar isn’t just technology—it’s a way to reimagine the built environment by transforming underused spaces into vibrant places that provide both shade and clean energy.

As Outreach Specialist and Marketing personnel, Kara connects people to Lumos’ mission, helping partners, clients, and communities see the value of solar beyond kilowatts. She loves that her work allows her to bridge design, planning, and sustainability. For Kara, solar is an opportunity to put her urban planning lessons into practice, integrating renewable energy into everyday spaces in ways that benefit both people and the planet.

Outside of work, Kara enjoys practicing yoga, dancing, and spending time outdoors. Her creativity, curiosity, and enthusiasm shine through everything she does. Kara is a vibrant part of the Lumos team and a passionate advocate for building a cleaner, more sustainable world.

Isabella Franklin – Marketing

As one of the youngest member of the Lumos team, Isabella brings a special “Gen-Z-se-quoi” to the company’s marketing and outreach. A graduate of American University in Washington, D.C. with degrees in Criminology and Psychology, she jokes that she’s now focused on catching the “real criminals”—those who still aren’t using solar.

An avid climber who lives on the road in her van to chase remote destinations, Isabella’s passion for adventure fuels her creativity. She thrives on finding fresh ways to connect people with Lumos’ mission, blending digital strategy, storytelling, and design to showcase how solar can be both beautiful and impactful.

At the heart of her work is a deep commitment to environmental protection and awareness of the social consequences of inaction. Isabella is dedicated to getting people to not only understand the value of architectural solar, but also to care about the planet and the communities it affects. Her mix of energy, curiosity, and drive makes her a dynamic force in Lumos’ mission to inspire change.

Terry Cordova – Production & Assembly

You always know when Terry is in the building—there’s music playing, he’s singing along, and the warehouse feels lighter. As the oldest member of the Lumos team, his energy is unmatched. Growing up in Commerce City, Colorado in the 1970s taught him the importance of community, trust, and communication—values that still guide him today.

With more than 35 years of warehouse experience, Terry entered the world of solar as a complete newcomer. He joined Lumos during a major production transition and jumped in with enthusiasm, learning alongside the team and supporting wherever he was needed. Though he has since returned to his warehouse roots, he now ships heavy rails and glass panels instead of electronics. What inspires him most is working with our Warehouse Manager, Chris Beyer—a leader he admires so much he jokes that “when [he] grows up, [he] wants to be just like Chris.”

Outside of work, Terry prioritizes family, community, and staying active. He often golfs with his family, including his daughter Gracie, who also works on the Lumos production team. His positivity and love for classic rock brighten every day at Lumos.

Scott Richards – Production & Assembly

The only member of our Production Crew not born and raised in Colorado, Scott brings his northern roots from Minnesota to Lumos. Growing up in a small town taught him that quality matters more than quantity and that community outweighs material gain. Those early lessons shaped his appreciation for minimalism and cleanliness—values that naturally drew him to solar energy.

Scott loves working in a field that protects, rather than harms, the environment. His commitment to being a helping hand and contributing to a better future motivates him every day. As a natural doer, he embraces new challenges and jumps in wherever he’s needed—often everywhere at once. His enthusiasm, adaptability, and willingness to learn make him an indispensable part of the Production team.

Outside of work, Scott stays equally energized and creative. He enjoys working out, writing short stories and poetry, and diving into fantasy or science fiction books. A kind, curious, and upbeat presence, Scott brings warmth and positivity to the Lumos team and never fails to make people smile.

Gracie Cordova – Production & Assembly

Lumos is a family business in more ways than one. When Gracie walks into work, she’s greeted not just by her team but by Terry’s familiar 80s playlist—an echo of her childhood in Arvada/Westminster. Growing up surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and a close-knit community shaped her deep respect for nature and her appreciation for hard work. While that love for the outdoors guides her, it’s the fast-moving “solarcoaster” of production that energizes her most.

With no prior solar experience, Gracie quickly embraced the constant learning the industry demands. Her role spans production, quality control, and inventory, where her precision and focus stand out. As the only woman on the production team, she sets a strong example—grounded in the confidence, calm, and kindness shaped by a family full of powerful women. Watching her work come to life and supporting an environmentally meaningful product motivates her every day.

Outside of work, Gracie brings the same drive and balance. A softball player, golfer, and snowboarder, she approaches everything with strength, discipline, and fearlessness. Shaped by sisterly chaos and Terry’s big-hearted influence, she carries a steady, composed presence that strengthens the entire production team.

Carlos Castruita Lopez – Production & Assembly

The newest member of the Lumos team, Carlos brings the same calm, easygoing energy that defines his hometown of Firestone, Colorado. That grounded steadiness serves him well in solar, where solving small kinks and uncovering quiet lessons is part of the job. He’s drawn to the details, the patience it takes to get things right, and the simple truth at the heart of it all: solar is one way he can help protect the planet.

At Lumos, Carlos splits his time between production and quality control—spaces that are quiet, methodical, and perfectly suited to him. He takes pride in knowing that each component he checks or builds plays a part in something bigger. His consistency and calm presence keep the workflow steady, even when the details get demanding.

Outside of work, Carlos keeps things just as laid-back. He plays soccer, takes long walks and drives, and works on his car to make it feel more like him. A fan of music, fashion, and anything that lets him add a personal touch, he brings that same subtle style and intention to everything he does.