Biography

Jesse Henson is an accomplished architect and designer who has been practicing architecture for over 25 years, and has been active in the solar industry for over 14 years. In 2009, he co-founded Oculus Studio (OS) with a focus on projects that realize the feasibility of sustainable design. OS has a multi-disciplinary approach of architecture, planning, engineering, and renewable energy that leads to best project outcomes and results. Jesse's key responsibilities involve new business, client relations, new product development, maintaining successful profitability, and overseeing staff productivity and efficiency. Indeed, he provides detail-oriented consulting related to architecture for what is a project-oriented business, combining a background of top design with building science. Jesse graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture from Rhode Island School of Design and earned his graduate degree in Building Science from Arizona State University in 2004. He also studied for a year in Rome where he was able to sketch and draw extensively in inspiring settings and learn to speak Italian. In fact, the company name was inspired by the oculus of the Pantheon. Throughout his education and subsequently in his career, Jesse has focused on attaining a balance of both technical and design sides. He has lectured and given talks at American Solar Energy Society and is a national board member of NCARB - National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, and previously served in the City of Scottsdale Green Building Association. Originally, Jesse was drawn to this field as it allows the opportunity to make the world a better place by giving it form. He sees design as transformative and facilitative for positive change. He has been a pioneer in developing solar carport concepts as exemplified by the award winning Kyocera Solar Grove, located at Koycera’s North American Corporate Headquarters in San Diego, CA. Certainly, Jesse excels in the business aspects of his role, knows what he does very well and is an expert in his field, all of which he parlays into generating new business for the company. Design is his core strength with both solar and architectural expertise, which allows him to straddle two worlds. In addition, he has written magazine articles for industry publications, such as American Institute of Architects' Architect Magazine, Architect Record, and Solar Pro. Tenacious and a lifelong learner, Jesse is always approaching new challenges, stepping outside of his comfort zone, and catalyzing change. He is proud to be apart of the OS launch of a new product service, Active Shade, for which they have a trademark and patent. He is keen to network, increase exposure, enhance his branding and make quality connections. When he's not working, Jesse enjoys being in the outdoors and in the ocean, kayaking, hiking, and spending time with his family. He is the proud father of three daughters, ages two, five, and seven. Jesse loves to cook and supports NPR.