Ep 33: Passion, Purpose, and Progress in Renewable Energy - A Conversation with Michael Klein
Release Date: 05/30/2024
Ep. 51: Resilience in Renewables - Leading Through Uncertainty
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
In this season finale of Sounds of Solar, we sit down with EVS leadership for a wide-ranging conversation on the evolution of renewable energy and where the industry is heading. From EVS’s bold pivot into solar in 2014 to today’s battery boom, data center demands, and the rise of AI-driven engineering tools, this episode explores what it takes to lead through uncertainty. Hear insights on policy, investment trends, and how EVS is preparing to modernize the grid for a cleaner, smarter future.
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Ep. 50: Cabins, Culture & Career Growth: Why Monday’s Don’t Have to Suck!
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
In this episode of Sounds of Solar, host Chris Bruhn sits down with EVS' President Andy Kim and Director of HR Divya Divakaran for a candid conversation on what sets EVS apart in a competitive job market. They explore how culture drives recruitment, retention, and innovation—from Gen Z hires to seasoned engineers. Learn how EVS fosters psychological safety, supports remote teams, and turns core values into real-world impact. Whether you're navigating workforce challenges or curious about the future of renewables, this episode offers an inside look at building a purpose-driven team that’s...
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Ep. 49: The Role of EPCs - Shaping the Future of Solar Energy
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
In this episode of Sounds of Solar, Michael Benitez, Senior Director of Engineering at Moss Construction, returns to discuss the evolving world of solar construction. Mike shares insights on Moss’s EPC approach, the importance of construction-driven engineering, and the challenge of scaling skilled labor. We explore innovations like perovskite panels, the shift to higher voltage systems, and AI’s growing role in design and delivery. From project logistics to the future of battery storage, Mike offers practical perspectives and a candid look at the technologies shaping large-scale solar...
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Ep. 48: From the Arctic to Advocacy - An Explorer’s Call for Climate Action
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
Legendary explorer and environmental advocate Will Steger shares powerful stories from his groundbreaking expeditions, his eyewitness account of climate change, and his lifelong commitment to purpose-driven leadership. We explore the founding of the historic Antarctic Treaty efforts, the vision behind the Steger Center for leadership and innovation, and his outlook on renewable energy and the future of the human spirit. From crossing frozen continents to inspiring global change, Steger offers insights on resilience, community, and building a better world. Whether you're passionate about...
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Ep. 47: From Passion to Purpose - Emerging Engineers Journey Into Renewable Energy
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
In this episode of Sounds of Solar, we shine the spotlight on the next generation of engineers powering the renewable energy transition. Sit down with Franc Pettang, Alyeska Dellinger, and Sam Walker—three emerging professionals at different stages in their EVS journey—to hear what drew them to engineering, how they found their way into renewables, and the surprises and challenges of building solar infrastructure. From international career pivots to hands-on site visits, this candid conversation explores what it means to learn by doing, embrace curiosity, and find purpose in clean energy...
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Ep. 46: Shepherding Success Through Multi-Disciplinary Project Management
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
In this special Director's Roundtable episode of Sounds of Solar, host Russell Hamilton sits down with EVS veterans Teresa Lassegard, Rob Kack, and Noah Waterhouse to explore the evolution of EVS—from its roots as a small environmental firm to a 200+ person engineering powerhouse in renewables. With over 75 years of combined experience, the trio shares insight on the company’s culture, the strategic creation of the Project Management Office (PMO), and what it means to be a true one-stop shop for solar and energy clients. Learn how EVS keeps quality high and communication seamless across...
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Ep. 45: The Solar Surge: Navigating Change and Opportunity in the Energy Sector
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
In this episode of Sounds of Solar, we invite you to pull up a chair and enjoy an indepth conversation with Alfredo Espinosa, Senior Vice President of Solar Preconstruction at Moss Construction. Alfredo shares his journey from intern to industry leader, revealing how Moss has grown into one of the top solar contractors in the U.S. We dive into the exponential growth of solar, the evolving energy demand driven by AI and data centers, and the role of EPCs in shaping the future. Alfredo discusses Moss’s innovative approach to workforce development, the importance of strong industry...
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Ep. 44: Weird Science: Wild Renewable Energy Sources You Won't Believe Exist!
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
Hosts Russell Hamilton and Chris Bruhn take a deep dive into some of the most bizarre yet fascinating renewable energy sources. They discuss body heat-powered buildings, urine-powered batteries, and piezoelectric sidewalks that turn footsteps into electricity. The duo also explores the potential of sound energy, heat-harnessing roads, and gyms that generate power from workouts. Along the way, they share personal anecdotes—including Russ’s leap into sprint car racing—and reflect on career growth in renewable energy. With humor, curiosity, and engaging discussions, this episode offers a...
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Ep. 43: From Soil to Structure: Exploring the Role of Geotech Engineering
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
In this episode of Sounds of Solar, we welcome Eric Johnson, Geotechnical Manager at EVS, for an insightful conversation on the evolving role of geotech in solar energy. Eric shares his journey from residential and commercial projects to leading geotech for large-scale solar, highlighting the increasing project sizes and the unique challenges of soil testing, frost heave, and pile load testing. He discusses groundbreaking advancements in geotech, such as frost-resistant coatings and improved frost analysis methods. Eric also explores the crucial interplay between geotech, civil, and electrical...
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Ep 42: Drones, LiDAR, and the Future of Solar Survey
The Sounds of Solar Podcast
Join us as we welcome back Scott Alwin, Survey Manager at EVS as he shares his journey from growing up in a surveying family to leading cutting-edge survey operations in the renewable energy sector. Learn how advancements in LiDAR technology and drone surveying have transformed data collection, improving efficiency and accuracy for large-scale solar projects. Scott dives into the critical role of ALTA surveys, the challenges of massive solar sites, and the future of aerial surveying—hint: it might involve helicopters! This episode is packed with insights on industry trends, surveying best...
info_outlineNavigating the complexities of green hydrogen and power-to-X technology is crucial for driving progress in the renewable energy sector. In this episode, Michael Klein, Head of Project Development at EE North America, shares his expertise on the regulatory framework, cost-effectiveness, and safety aspects of hydrogen projects. Solar engineers and decision-makers cannot miss this insightful conversation on the transformative potential of green hydrogen in decarbonizing various industries.
Must Hear Moments:
- Michael's thoughts on the misconceptions surrounding green hydrogen production (29:25)
- The importance of skill stacking and a well-rounded skill set in the renewable energy industry (09:10)
- The role of collaboration and trust in developing safe and efficient hydrogen projects (19:17)
Notable Quotes:
- "Our industry has proven time and time again, we can get to a cost-effective point where we can compete with other traditional forms of energy."
- "If we're not all having this conversation, like we're having right now, we're never going to get there as an industry."
- "As an industry, if we're, if we want to play with the big boys, we need to have big boy safety programs and safety systems in place to keep people safe long term and get them home to their family."
Contact Information:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldkleinpe
Twitter: https://twitter.com/michaeldklein23?lang=en
Website: https://eenorthamerica.com/
To learn more about the Sounds of Solar, visit https://evs-eng.com/. Subscribe and leave a rating for the podcast to help us continue bringing you valuable insights from renewable energy experts.