Chuck Hassebrook

Chuck joined us in 2015 and has been instrumental in developing our solar projects and driving our success. He is focused on strategy, identification of new project opportunities, and project initiation.

Before joining Sandhills, Chuck dedicated 37 years to the nonprofit sector, serving as Executive Director at the Center for Rural Affairs for 17 years. Under his leadership, the organization achieved significant policy reforms and supported over 10,000 small businesses through loans and training. Chuck’s extensive experience in advocacy and governance also includes an 18-year tenure as an elected member of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, representing northeast Nebraska.

His transition to Sandhills Energy stemmed from a desire to contribute directly to advancing renewable energy. His background in advocacy and governance has brought a unique perspective to the renewable energy sector, emphasizing the importance of rural revitalization through development of a sustainable and environmentally responsible future.

Outside his role at Sandhills, Chuck serves as a Board Member for Nebraska Cures, promoting medical research and science literacy, and as the Director of the Biochar Policy Project of the National Center for Appropriate Technology, advocating for federal policy to support development of a carbon-negative biochar and biofuel industry that benefits rural America.