COLUMBUS – The Utility Scale Solar Energy Coalition of Ohio (USSEC) – the trade association representing utility-scale solar developers, manufacturers and industry leaders in Ohio – recently announced the hiring of Will Hinman as its Executive Director. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Will Hinman as the new Executive Director of USSEC,” Board President Pat Tully said. “Will’s wealth of expertise in the legislature, his understanding of the state landscape, and his experience driving policy and economic development positions USSEC to successfully navigate the intersection of policy and industry growth in Ohio.” 

Hinman, an Ohio State University graduate, served as Director of the Speaker’s Office for Speaker Bob Cupp from 2020 through 2022. He then founded Forrest Hinman Capitol Consulting, LLC, which he continues to operate. Previously, Hinman worked in Gov. Mike DeWine’s administration, where he was responsible for advancing the governor’s transportation policy as Legislative Liaison at the Ohio Department of Transportation. 

Before serving in the DeWine Administration, Hinman was the top aide to Chairman Cupp, who chaired the Public Utilities Committee in the Ohio House of Representatives. Throughout his career, Hinman also has worked on several campaigns in various capacities, in Washington, D.C., in the office of Congressman Steve Stivers and at the NFIB, and for State Rep. Marlene Anielski. 

“The utility-scale solar industry in Ohio is leading the way to meet the demand for energy and development benefitting Ohio’s communities, schools and rural landowners,” Hinman said. “I am excited to continue working with the growing number of utility-scale solar companies having a positive impact on local communities across Ohio. With simultaneous momentum and challenges at the state and local levels, it has never been more crucial to educate government officials and citizens about the vast benefits of utility-scale solar and to advocate for public policy that will further our industry.”

During this year’s biennial budget process in Ohio, Hinman served as Interim Executive Director of USSEC. Under Hinman’s leadership, USSEC helped secure major victories for the utility-scale solar industry in the budget, including a four-year extension of the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program.