Energy Convertors…

is an organization that focuses on building agentic students and agentic communities in order to ensure our students get the education they deserve.

We exist to utilize the voices of the end-users of education - THE STUDENTS, PARENTS, AND THEIR COMMUNITY. Our starting place is with those that public education was meant to serve from day one rather than the “system”. We prioritize the quality students and parents desire over any system. Through our research, students and their families understand their power and agency in education. You can find the voices of of our convertors through our blog, our reports, our videos, our podcast, and other forms of media.

Our fellows are not victims, they are every day change agents.

our leadership team

CHARLES COLE, III, Edd, FOUNDER

Dr. Charles Cole, III is an educator focused on the advancement of all youth of color but more specifically Black males. The passion comes from his own experiences growing up without proper support. His life's goal is to better the communities he grew up in through his work. Through Energy Convertors, he is able to help students activate their leadership by building and supporting students to realize their agency and improve systems in which they are most impact.  

Dr. Cole has has served as a social worker, a Director for Teach for America, the Vice Chair of the California Young Democrats, Black Caucus and at a Director's level at various youth-focused nonprofits.

Dr. Cole is a national speaker, a writer and can be found in Oakland and around the country working with youth on how to equip themselves appropriately to lay the ground work for a bright future. Charles was a Community Engagement Specialist for the Oakland Unified School District before leaving to launch Energy Convertors. 

#BeAnEnergyConvertor #DoWork

Sarah Aronson, Director of Development

Sarah leads fundraising and donor strategy at Energy Convertors, bringing more than a decade of experience in advocacy, fundraising, and graphic design. With roots in a family of educators from the Chicago area, Sarah partners with Charles to grow and sustain a national community of supporters committed to agency and community power. Her work spans organizations such as Educators for Excellence, GO Public Schools, and 50CAN, where she built fundraising systems, coached nonprofit leaders, and helped raise millions for equity-focused initiatives. She launched her consultancy in 2022 and now advises organizations across the country.

Victor Sandifer, Director of Programs

Victor is a creative educator and proud Oakland native dedicated to helping young people understand their power. A graduate of UC Berkeley and a product of OUSD, Victor has spent his career teaching, mentoring, and building programs rooted in Black culture and student agency. He previously served as Program Coordinator in UC Berkeley’s African American Student Development office and is co-founder of Run The World, a brand that uses fashion and storytelling to honor Black history and radical imagination. At Energy Convertors, Victor leads our fellowships and curriculum design with an unwavering commitment to student-centered learning.

Ryan Phillips, manager of Communications & Special Projects

Ryan is a writer, editor, and strategist from Oakland who helps shape and amplify the Energy Convertors voice. With over a decade of experience in journalism, education, and equity-centered communications, Ryan brings a critical lens and creative skillset to every part of the organization—from editing reports and managing blog content to supporting program implementation and storytelling. His past work includes leadership roles in communications for Oakland and West Contra Costa Unified School Districts. He now consults for a range of nonprofits focused on justice, education, and community transformation.

Angela Skelton, Executive Assistant

Angela brings over 20 years of executive administrative experience to Energy Convertors. Before joining the team, she provided high-level support at District of Columbia Public Schools and pursued a degree in early childhood education. A trusted collaborator, Angela is known for her reliability, professionalism, and heart. She is also a devoted wife, mother, grandmother of seven, and caretaker to her beloved Chihuahua, Peanut. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and attending church.