Ari first joined AEI in 1996, as an installer, to help pay for his education at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He grew up in Aiea and also lived in San Jose, California. He eventually moved back in 1995. He spends his free time with his wife, 2 daughters, and now calls Kaneohe his home.

His customers value his knowledge and expertise in the solar industry and often rely on his consultative style. As one customer stated, "Ari always puts in the extra effort and always puts his customers ahead of all else."