David Sellers

Principal Architect
Hawaii Off-Grid

David Sellers’ architectural journey began in Alaska, working as a ship’s engineer on commercial fishing boats to finance his undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University. This hands on experience gave him expertise in battery systems, potable and wastewater systems, and generators. He later earned a master’s in Architecture, Urbanism, and Building Science from the Technical University Delft in the Netherlands.

After a decade abroad, David returned to the U.S. to join The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii, managing the Palmyra Atoll program and leading the transition from diesel generators to a renewable microgrid, saving over $1 million annually.

In 2015, he co-founded Hawaii Off-Grid (HIOG), a sustainable design focused architectural firm, and as AIA Maui President in 2024, he contributed to wildfire recovery, serving as a county deputized safety assessor and leading the Ohana Hope Village housing project for displaced Lahaina residents.

David also serves on the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity Maui, advocating for innovative construction methods, including mass timber, to advance sustainable and resilient building solutions across the Hawaiian Islands.