Bob Underwood has lived around dam people his entire life. His legendary grandfather managed the construction of a number of major hydroelectric facilities. A venture capital/private equity veteran, Underwood has a doctorate in engineering from Stanford University and an MBA. He built his career developing technology-based businesses and has extensive experience with climate change and renewable energy. He is a long-time past member of the National Science Foundation's Advisory Committee on Industrial Innovation. He is considered an authority on the history of hydropower.