October 7, 2026
In honor of Veterans Day, Community Energy Project (CEP) is recognizing two members of our team who served in the United States Navy: David Saenz, Community Solar Coordinator, and Roc Aiken, In-Homes Services Manager.
Through our In-Homes services, educational workshops, and advocacy efforts. CEP works to create healthier, safer, and more energy-efficient homes for our community. Behind this work are dedicated individuals who bring a wide range of experiences, perspectives, and skills to the people we serve.
What was your branch and rank? Is there anything else you’d like to share about your service?
Roc: I served in the U.S. Navy for two years and held the rank of E-2. I experienced a lot during my short time in the military, and I still keep in touch with 10–15 people I served with. One of them recently visited Oregon, and we went out for dinner and reminisced about the good old days. We talked about our six-month deployment aboard the USS Kitty Hawk and three months aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln.
David: I served in the U.S. Navy as a machinist's mate aboard three vessels: the USS Ponce, USS Ronald Reagan, and, for a short time, the USS Carl Vinson. I enlisted in 2010 and advanced to petty officer third class. I also had the opportunity to attend Cryogenics C-School, where I became certified to produce liquid nitrogen and oxygen aboard aircraft carriers. I served four years on active duty and four years in the Navy Reserve, with assignments across the country. I was fortunate that my service did not involve direct conflict. I realized that the military lifestyle and culture weren't the right long-term fit for me, so I decided not to reenlist. However, my service provided opportunities that shaped my life. I graduated from Portland State University using my VA education benefits, something I will always be grateful for. I grew into adulthood during my time in the Navy, developed discipline, and had the opportunity to meet and learn from people from around the world. Those experiences helped shape my perspective and appreciation for different cultures.
Lived experiences play an important role in allowing CEP staff to connect with our clients. How does your experience inform your work today?
Roc: My military experience has helped me communicate with many of our clients who are veterans. In my opinion, serving in the military was a humbling experience, and it's something our veteran clients can relate to.
David: I learned so much about myself during my service. Working with people from around the world gave me a broader perspective on how big and diverse the world is. Even today, I feel more comfortable connecting with people from different backgrounds because of those foundational cultural experiences in the Navy.
What is it like to build trust with individuals in the veterans community?
Roc: Building trust with veterans may be a natural thing as we already have something in common. Veterans are typically very thankful and grateful. I like being able to assist veterans and sharing information about assistance offered by other non-profit organizations as well.
David: Respect goes a long way with Veterans. Showing appreciation for their service is always welcomed. I would say don’t be shy to say, “Thank you for your service” to a vet. I think asking them how I can try to support them is helpful. Along with showing up to community events like CEP does to show that we are here for vets.
What do you wish more people knew about the veteran community?
Roc: I wish more people knew about the sacrifice that veterans make when joining the military. People are away from their family for extended periods of time, working long hours was a normal occurrence, and there was no paid overtime. I will never forget Boot Camp or how badly walking in boots more than ten miles a day hurt my feet. All of these experiences strengthen veterans mentally and emotionally.
David: Veterans come from many different backgrounds, and we all experience and carry our service differently. Some wear it proudly, while others, like me, don't necessarily like to announce it. I want people to understand that military service affects everyone differently, and some veterans may need more grace and understanding than others.
This Veterans Day, we extend our appreciation to David, Roc, and all veterans in our community. Their experiences remind us that service takes many forms and that every individual brings a unique perspective to the work of strengthening our communities. We're grateful for the compassion, dedication, and lived experiences David and Roc bring to CEP and the people we serve.
