Basalt International is made up of a cohesive team with significant operational experience, technical skills, and expansive networks.
BI has assembled a world-class leadership team with proven basalt technical expertise.
Benjamin Kim, CEO of Basalt International, is leading a transformation in global infrastructure by pioneering the use of basalt composites in construction. With over 25 years of experience as an “Architect of Business Models,” Ben has launched more than 40 companies, consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation and fostering sustainable growth. His forward-thinking leadership and commitment to resilient solutions make him the ideal leader for Basalt’s mission to redefine construction materials for a more sustainable future.
"At this point, I wanted to create something that will last and leave a legacy," Ben shares. "For me and the rest of the team, basalt was the ideal choice because it embodies the long-lasting, sustainable future we’re committed to." Unlike traditional materials, basalt resists rust, is environmentally friendly, and can last for centuries, making it the ultimate choice for enduring infrastructure.
Guided by an unshakeable belief in overcoming challenges, Ben inspires his team and partners to build infrastructure that will stand the test of time. Under his leadership, Basalt International is laying the foundation for a stronger, greener world—an infrastructure legacy for generations to come.
Tony Tsai, President and Chief Commercial Officer of Basalt International, brings a wealth of global expertise in marketing, manufacturing, logistics, and global brand-building to drive Basalt’s mission for resilient, sustainable infrastructure solutions. A Stanford-educated engineer with over 25 years at industry giants like Procter & Gamble, Beijing Hualian, and Nestlé (Vital Proteins), Tony has a proven track record of scaling operations and fostering brand loyalty across diverse markets. His leadership in launching Febreze as a global household name underscores his ability to build trust and scale innovations that last.
“Creating lasting impact through sustainable innovation is the goal,” Tony shares. “Basalt composites offer a greener, more durable future, like seawalls that can last for generations. That’s a legacy worth building.” With a passion for reimagining infrastructure using sustainable materials, Tony’s vision empowers Basalt’s commitment to revolutionizing construction for a stronger, greener future.
Known for his dedication to solutions that stand the test of time, Tony’s extensive global experience and strategic foresight empower Basalt International’s mission to transform the construction industry with innovative, sustainable solutions.
Quintin Gregor, Chief Operating Officer at Basalt International, brings over 44 years of expertise in operations, management, and data analytics, with a deep understanding of international markets across the Middle East, Europe, and North America. His career spans diverse sectors, from oil and gas to legal technology and construction, where he has consistently driven operational efficiency and innovation. “Effective operations require an understanding of both global dynamics and precise local execution,” Quintin notes, underscoring his commitment to advancing Basalt’s mission.
With a strong background in big data and AI, Quintin enhances Basalt International’s capacity for data-driven, strategic decision-making on a global scale. Known for his ethical approach, fairness, and dedication to operational excellence, he fosters trust and collaboration within the team. “I’ve been working with basalt technology for years, and this mission aligns deeply with my commitment to sustainable innovation,” he shares. Quintin’s leadership reinforces Basalt International’s pursuit of transforming infrastructure through sustainable solutions that endure.
Jeffrey Frank, Chief Financial Officer at Basalt International, brings over 38 years of expertise in management, finance, and operations. With a deep background in scaling growth-stage companies and two decades in construction and alternative building material industries, Jeffrey’s breadth of experience equips him to help advance Basalt’s mission of transforming infrastructure with sustainable, innovative solutions.
“My experience in financial, managerial, and operational processes is essential for supporting Basalt’s goals,” Jeffrey shares. “Building a company that promotes cost-effective, environmentally friendly products aligns with my values.” A dedicated steward of capital for impact-driven, renewable energy, and ESG-focused ventures, Jeffrey’s commitment to sustainability is integral to Basalt’s vision. His leadership—rooted in integrity, respect, and fairness—builds trust and credibility across the team and with partners.
Jeffrey holds an undergraduate degree in Accounting from Adelphi University, which he completed while building his first company. Mr. Frank received his MBA in Finance from the Wharton School of Business, with a focus on Entrepreneurship and Healthcare Management. His Series 7, 63, and 79 licenses further reinforce his knowledge of finance and financial markets, ensuring Basalt’s growth aligns with financial stability, proper corporate governance, and environmental responsibility.
Colonel Bryan Green, Chief Development Officer at Basalt International, brings over 30 years of distinguished experience as a retired U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Colonel and former Military Lab Director. With a career dedicated to high-stakes construction and innovation, Bryan has led transformative projects, including an $18 billion construction program on the Korean Peninsula and the $2 billion Engineer Research and Development Center, one of the U.S. Army’s largest research facilities. His extensive work across challenging global environments—from the Gulf to the Pacific—has honed his expertise in technology, construction, and sustainable innovation.
“Delivering sustainable solutions to protect and advance humanity and nature. That’s the mission.” Bryan shares, highlighting his dedication to Basalt’s purpose-driven vision. Known for his integrity and strategic insight, Colonel Green’s leadership empowers Basalt’s efforts to drive a new era in resilient infrastructure. His expertise in program development, innovation integration, and cross-functional leadership is pivotal to Basalt’s success in reshaping global construction for a sustainable future.
Lee Berry serves as Chief Technology Officer at Basalt International, bringing over 30 years of expertise in technical sales, business development, and market expansion. Known for successfully introducing advanced materials to new markets, Lee has led sales and marketing efforts across aerospace, automotive, power generation, and infrastructure sectors. His role is crucial in expanding Basalt’s reach and showcasing the advantages of basalt composites for high-performance applications. “Basalt composites offer unmatched environmental benefits, durability, and lifecycle savings,” Lee shares, underscoring his commitment to driving widespread adoption.
Before joining Basalt International, Lee served as VP of Global Sales and Marketing at Mafic USA, where he was instrumental in establishing the market presence of basalt fibers. His strategic approach, technical expertise, and dedication to building long-term client relationships foster trust and credibility with partners. With a background in polymer and textile chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology, Lee’s technical foundation strengthens his role in advancing Basalt’s mission of leading sustainable innovation in construction.
Nick Gencarelle is a key leader at Basalt International, driving the mission to advance sustainable building materials with over 40 years of experience in construction. Known as the “Basalt.Guru,” he brings eighteen years in being one of the first people to recognize and embrace the advanced properties of basalt volcanic rock. Nick pioneered its use as a stronger, lighter alternative to steel in concrete reinforcements across the U.S. “A USA basalt fiber facility will allow for competitive pricing, quality control, sustained availability and use by local, state, federal and military applicaitons.
Prior to joining Basalt International, Nick founded Smarter Building Systems, where he introduced basalt reinforcement products to the U.S. market, engaging clients with hundreds of millions in potential sales. Known for his commitment to sustainable innovation and deep technical expertise, Nick plays a pivotal role in Basalt’s mission to create resilient, eco-friendly infrastructure solutions that are built to last.
AIT is the wholly-owned engineering arm of BI and specializes in engineering and manufacturing composite bridges and reinforced building components.
Brit Svoboda leads Composite Bridge & Infrastructure Technology Business Development at Basalt International, bringing over a decade of expertise in advancing sustainable composite solutions for modern infrastructure. With a clear commitment to transforming the construction industry, Brit focuses on integrating durable, cost-effective materials that significantly reduce environmental impact. “Sustainability isn’t just a feature—it’s our brand’s identity,” he shares, underscoring his mission to position Basalt as the sustainable alternative to traditional, resource-intensive materials.
As the face of Basalt International Engineering, Brit works closely with strategic partners, senior management, and industry leaders to realize Basalt’s long-term goals and introduce green, innovative solutions to the market. “We need materials that increase lifespan and decrease costs while leaving a smaller carbon footprint,” he emphasizes, reflecting his commitment to reshaping infrastructure for a sustainable future. Known for his dedication to sustainable development, Brit’s collaborative approach builds trust and credibility, furthering Basalt’s mission to deliver resilient, future-ready infrastructure solutions.
Key board members and advisors will help drive new customers and partners to propel BI’s growth.
Dr. Habib Dagher is a member of Basalt International’s Advisory Board, bringing world-renowned expertise in composite innovation and structural performance. As the founding Director of the Advanced Structures and Composites Center at the University of Maine that grew to 420 employees, Dr. Dagher has pioneered high-performance composite materials that set new standards for durability and sustainability in construction. “Basalt composites are the future of infrastructure—they’re non-corrosive, resilient, and ideal for projects that demand strength and longevity,” he shares.
With over 40 years of experience and more than 100 patents, Dr. Dagher has led groundbreaking projects that won him world recognition. He was named White House Transportation Champion of Change for the award-winning “Bridge-in-a-Backpack” composite technology and received the inaugural Academic Pioneer Award by the American Composites Manufacturers Association. His innovations in composites applications in bridges also won him the Charles Pankow Award for Innovation by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). He was named Top 25 Newsmakers by Engineering News Record and Innovator of the Year by Windpower Engineering and Development Magazine for leading the design and deployment of the first floating wind turbine in the US, which also featured the first composite tower technology. Dr. Dagher led a team that received 3 Guiness World Records, including 3D printing the largest polymer boat as well as the Engineering Excellence Award, American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC).
“Basalt International has the vision and resources to transform global infrastructure sustainably,” he adds, inspired by the company’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions through innovative solutions. Known for his collaborative approach and visionary insight, Dr. Dagher’s contributions are instrumental to Basalt International’s mission of reshaping infrastructure for a sustainable future.
Gregory Nadeau serves as a member of Basalt International’s Advisory Board, contributing over 35 years of expertise in infrastructure innovation, public policy, and sustainable development. A former Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and a Nic While at FHWA, he led the groundbreaking Every Day Counts (EDC) partnership with the states, which helped transform project delivery nationwide by promoting technologies that enhanced sustainability, saved time, money and highway safety.
With an extensive background in policy and program development—including his role as Chairman and CEO of Infrastructure Ventures since 2017—Greg is a pivotal advisor to Basalt’s mission of sustainable infrastructure. “Basalt is a perfect fit for projects requiring long-lasting materials, from bridges to coastal protections that stand the test of time,” he shares. Aligned with Basalt’s vision, Greg’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and building resilient infrastructure guides his work to advance solutions for future generations.
Joe Andrew is a member of Basalt International’s Advisory Board, bringing over 30 years of expertise in corporate law, strategic leadership, and global policy. As the founding Global Chairman of Dentons, the world’s largest law firm, Joe offers invaluable insight into scaling complex organizations and navigating high-stakes, multinational environments. Known for his leadership as National Chair of the Democratic National Committee, he has cultivated relationships worldwide that he believes will drive Basalt’s international growth. “Basalt is a game-changer for industries that require strength, lightness, and sustainability,” Joe shares.
Throughout his career, Joe has led deals exceeding $500 billion, consistently building trust with his strategic expertise and commitment to sustainable growth. “Basalt International has the potential to redefine the materials industry globally,” he adds, inspired by the company’s vision. A seasoned entrepreneur and advocate for innovation, Joe’s dedication to advancing sustainable solutions aligns seamlessly with Basalt International’s mission to transform infrastructure worldwide.
Alvin Ericson, Technical Consultant at Basalt International, brings over 35 years of expertise in concrete reinforcing systems, like Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) and Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP). This makes him an invaluable asset to Basalt International's mission of advancing basalt-based sustainable, high-performance materials.
An MIT graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Building Technology and an MBA in Marketing from Northeastern University, Alvin has dedicated his career to revolutionizing concrete construction through innovative reinforcement technologies. As a Fellow of both the American Concrete Institute (ACI) and the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI), Alvin has contributed to shaping industry standards and advancing composite innovations. His work includes chairing the PCI FRP Committee and serving on multiple ACI committees, influencing key advancements in precast and cast-in-place (CIP) concrete systems.
Alvin’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable construction aligns seamlessly with Basalt International’s mission. "Basalt composites represent the next frontier in construction innovation, offering unmatched durability and sustainability," Alvin shares. With his vast technical expertise and passion for innovation, Alvin plays a pivotal role in Basalt International’s efforts to redefine global infrastructure.