Rising Star Spotlight: Dema Headley 🌟

The FlaSEIA Rising Star Award celebrates young professionals making an extraordinary impact on Florida’s solar and storage industry. Dema Headley, a 2023 Rising Star Award winner, embodies the heart of innovation and leadership in solar financing.

Reflecting on her award, Dema shares, “Winning the Rising Star Award was an incredible honor. It reminded me that the work I do every day makes a difference and has a lasting impact.”

Pictured: Dema receiving the Rising Star Award in 2023

A Career Built on Helping Others

Dema's journey to the solar industry began nearly two decades ago when she transitioned from a demanding customer service role into the banking world. Over the years, she found her true passion in helping people, whether individuals or businesses, achieve their dreams. Her love for fostering relationships and making a tangible difference in the lives of her customers has always been the driving force behind her success.

In December 2021, Dema joined Climate First Bank, where she quickly became a key player in expanding solar financing nationwide. Thanks to her leadership, the Bank made significant strides:

• In June 2024, the Bank expanded into nine new markets and introduced small commercial solar financing to all 50 states
• In January 2025 the Bank began offering consumer solar financing across 41 states.
• The Bank is on track to be offering consumer solar financing in all 50 by Q3 2025.

Empowering Solar Growth, One Step at a Time

What drives Dema is her deep belief that solar financing should be accessible to everyone. She’s passionate about the potential of small contractors to grow their businesses with the proper support and about empowering homeowners to embrace clean energy. As Climate First Bank grows into the nation’s largest solar lending bank, Dema is excited to help more people go solar, ensuring that financing stays fast, easy, and digital.

Dema’s Advice for Rising Stars

"Stay committed to your goals and make each day count toward something meaningful. Embrace risks, pursue new opportunities, and keep evolving with the industry."

Know a Rising Star? Nominate Them Today!

Do you know someone under 40 who’s making a major impact in Florida’s solar and storage industry? Or maybe you are that person? The FlaSEIA Rising Star Award is your chance to shine a spotlight on the next generation of leaders.

Nomination Guidelines:

• Nominee must be between 18 and 39 years old as of May 14, 2025
• Nominee must be from a FlaSEIA member company
• Self-nominations are encouraged!
• Deadline to submit: March 15, 2025

Winners will be recognized at the 2025 Florida Solar & Storage Summit, May 12-14, at the Tampa Convention Center. Submit your nomination today here and learn more about the Summit here!