
MEET OUR TEAM.
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Ed Tuchler
Owner
Energy Check business owner Ed Tuchler trained in architecture at Virginia Tech before applying his knowledge to practical field experience as owner, designer, and builder of Shelter Alternatives. He created Energy Check in 2007 to advise his clients and community on how to make their homes as healthy, safe, and energy efficient as possible. Ed has always been a strong environmentalist and enjoys outdoor activities such as biking and hiking. You can often find him attending regional dancing events or sharing his love of music with others at the Shelter Alternatives, Inc. weekly jam sessions on Fridays.
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Chris Nicholson
Director of Operations / Lead Auditor
Chris earned his B.S. in Biology from Earlham College in Indiana. He is a Qualified Home Energy Score (HES) assessor and BPI-Certified Residential Building Analyst. He has worked as both an Energy Installer and Auditor making him a great resource for advice and information as you move through considering how to maximize your home’s performance as a system. Chris takes extra efforts in helping to coordinate all aspects of your project. When not working on residential energy efficiency solutions, Chris enjoys spending time with his wife and three small children, permaculture gardening, and raising pigs and chickens at his Christiansburg home.
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Ian Akers
Lead Energy Installer
Ian has been with Energy Check since 2010 and is the leader of our field crew. He knows his way around crawlspace and attic air sealing projects. He takes our prioritized recommendations and applies his understanding of Building Science to address goals. Ian has a very dedicated work ethic with close attention to detail, making him an asset on any project, and he really rocks a Tyvek suit. When Ian is not working, he enjoys reading, woodworking, longboarding and general outdoor activities with his dog.
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Alex Dalton
Project Manager / Energy Retrofit Installer
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Kolten Price
Energy Auditor / Code Compliance Analyst
Growing up in Montgomery county has helped me understand the issues people may face when our weather and environment challenge our homes. My number one priority at EnergyCheck is to help get you to a better spot then you were in before we arrived. With consultancy in everything we do, I will make sure you get on the right track to efficiency and happy comfort in your home
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Justine Brillhart
Marketing / Administration
Justine is a devoted wife, mother, and outdoor enthusiast. Since marrying McKinley Brillhart in 2015, they’ve built a life centered around family, adventure, and community. Together with their two active children, they enjoy boating, riding side-by-sides, and exploring the outdoors. Justine’s love for nature and dedication to her family shines through in every part of her life.

Who We Are.
Energy Check, a division of Shelter Alternatives in Blacksburg, VA, specializes in energy efficiency and building science, offering audits, energy solutions, and sustainable home improvements.

Join our Team
Are you passionate about energy efficiency? Experienced in construction? We’re hiring!
Join our team! We are actively seeking talented individuals for two key roles: Field Crew Technician and Energy Auditor. Be part of team that’s making a difference!
Contact Us
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