Founder and President of Leave It Better Than We Found It, LLC and Waters & Associates, LLC, John has been committed to developing sustainable solutions since his early work in developing the world’s first (mass produced) electric car, GM’s EV1. Designed to solve major environmental and economic issues, John realized that whole-system engineering and energy efficiency could not only improve the lives of individuals but entire communities, and nations.
John is currently utilizing this systems thinking approach to solving complex issues in energy, food, water, transportation, and economic development in Africa, Australia, Asia, Europe, Island Nations, South America, and throughout the U.S.
Since the early days of developing the EV1 battery pack, John’s interests led him to develop sustainable energy storage solutions in lithium-ion batteries for Delphi, forming the EnerDel joint venture, and launching Bright Automotive as founding CEO. John also created and led Rocky Mountain Institute’s (RMI) consulting practice in sustainable transportation and advised multiple Fortune 1-to-100 companies in sustainable transportation solutions, energy storage, and energy efficiency.
At RMI John developed his passion for whole-system design in energy, economics, food, water, the built environment, and transportation – all to improve the quality of life for people around the planet. John is also a Senior Fellow at the Sagamore Institute, previously a member of Duke Energy’s “Thought Leaders Council”, and advises multiple “plug-in” automotive and battery companies, investors, and financial analysts.
While at GM and Delphi, John was responsible for the design, testing, and production of multiple battery pack products, including certified solutions for the Chevrolet Electric S-10, GM/Allison Hybrid Bus, iBot® and Segway®. Mr. Waters holds ten U.S. and international patents, two defensive papers in battery pack designs, and has received numerous industry awards. His Universal Energy Module® – a simple battery solution for both homes and mobility – is currently patent-pending in 65 nations including Africa, Australia, Asia, Europe, and U.S.
His inspiration has come from historically acclaimed mentors: Ilker “Ike” Bayraktar, Dean Kamen, Amory Lovins, Paul MacCready, Ph.D., and “Battery Bill” Wylam, Ph.D.