Watts Up Renewables

EP 71 - Everyone Is A Safety Manager | Mike Williams

In this powerful episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Mike Williams — a renewable energy trainer who’s deeply passionate about building a stronger, safer industry from the inside out. ⚡🦺
We dive into a critical question that doesn’t get asked enough: Are we actually training the people we promote into leadership roles? From new leads to managers, the expectation to lead safely is there — but the support and development don’t always follow. Mike challenges the industry to rethink how we prepare those stepping into positions of influence, and what happens when we don’t.
This conversation also reinforces a mindset shift: safety isn’t just a department — it’s everyone’s responsibility. Every technician, every lead, every person on site has the authority to call a stop work if something doesn’t feel right. That kind of culture only works when it’s truly supported, not just stated.
We also break down the importance of something simple, yet often overlooked — buddy checking your PPE. It’s a small act that can prevent major incidents, and a reminder that looking out for each other is a core part of the job.
At the heart of it all, Mike brings it back to one idea: safety starts from within. It’s not just procedures or policies — it’s personal ownership, awareness, and the standards we hold ourselves to every single day.
If you care about leadership, accountability, and building a safer future in renewable energy, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. 🌎⚡

EP 70 - Conferences: Don't Just Attend - Dominate | Ian Steele | Here To Serve Renewables

In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we welcome back Ian Steele of Here To Serve Renewables for a powerful, real-world conversation on leadership and industry growth. ⚡🎙️
We kick things off by diving into what truly separates great managers from the rest. From autocratic styles to influencer-driven leadership, Ian breaks down the different approaches to management — what works, what doesn’t, and how leadership directly impacts team performance and safety in the field. 🔧
Then we shift gears into a deep discussion on renewable energy conferences — the good, the bad, and everything in between. We talk about what actually makes these events valuable, where companies often miss the mark, and how to maximize ROI whether you’re attending or exhibiting. From networking tactics to deciding when it’s the right time to invest in a booth, this episode is packed with practical insights for companies looking to grow and stand out. 🚀
If you’ve ever wondered how to lead better, connect smarter, and get more out of industry events — this one’s for you. 🌎

EP 69 - High Voltage, Higher Standards | Stephen San Juan | Rise Renewable Energy

In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we welcome back Stephen San Juan of Rise Renewable Energy — a company dedicated to developing, training, and supporting the technicians who keep this industry moving.
This conversation dives deep into the growing demand for medium voltage (MV) and high voltage (HV) expertise as renewable energy systems continue to scale. Stephen shares real-world insights on why the industry must evolve its training standards to match the complexity and risk of today’s infrastructure.
We also tackle a critical operational question: Is one technician ever enough on-site? From efficiency to safety, we break down the challenges and risks of solo work versus having a second set of eyes — and how that decision can directly impact outcomes in the field.
Safety takes center stage as we explore how injuries can be prevented through stronger training, better procedures, and a culture built around proactive risk management. One of the biggest takeaways? PPE is not your first line of defense — it’s your last. The real protection comes from planning, communication, and doing the job right before hazards ever escalate.
If you’re in the field, leading a team, or shaping training programs, this episode delivers practical insight into what it takes to build a safer, more capable renewable energy workforce. ⚡

EP 68 - Colton Tiefenthaler | Utilizing Skills In The Field

In this special episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we welcome back a familiar voice — Colton Tiefenthaler — for a conversation that blends career insight, industry perspective, and real-life milestones.
Colton shares his unique journey from pursuing a degree in political science to discovering the vast opportunities within the renewable energy industry. From breaking into the field to navigating the transition between solar and wind, he offers a firsthand look at how these sectors differ in operation, culture, and day-to-day work in field service.
We also dive into the often-unspoken “politics” of the field — how teams operate, how decisions are made, and what it really takes to grow in this industry. It’s an honest and insightful discussion for both new technicians and seasoned professionals alike.
Beyond the technical side, this episode carries a deeper personal meaning. Colton opens up about becoming a new father, while Adam reflects on stepping into the role of grandfather for the first time — creating a full-circle moment that brings both heart and perspective to the conversation.
This episode is packed with real-world experience, industry knowledge, and genuine moments that remind us what this journey is all about.
🎙️ Tune in for a conversation that bridges generations, careers, and the future of renewable energy.

EP 67 - Josh Rogers | Truckroll | The Importance of Mental Fitness

In this episode of Watts Up Renewables, we sit down with Josh Rogers, founder of Truckroll, for a powerful conversation about the evolution of technicians in the renewable energy industry and the often-overlooked topic of mental fitness in the field.
Josh shares his journey from military service into the renewable energy sector, beginning in residential solar, transitioning into wind energy, and eventually working in battery storage. His path mirrors the natural progression many technicians are experiencing today as the industry expands and skillsets evolve across multiple technologies.
We dive into how technicians are moving between sectors like wind, solar, and storage as the industry grows, and why collaboration between trades and technologies is becoming more important than ever. Josh also explains how Truckroll is helping technicians strengthen their mental resilience, decision-making, and cognitive readiness—skills that are just as critical as technical ability when working in high-stakes energy environments.
The conversation also explores the rapid rise of AI, how learning is changing across the renewable workforce, and what the future might look like for technicians navigating an increasingly digital and data-driven industry.
From career transitions and industry collaboration to mental performance and the future of learning, this episode is packed with insight for anyone working in or entering the renewable energy space.

EP 66 - Jeremy Norris | Wind Power Solutions | Blade Recycling With Integrity

In this episode, we welcome back Jeremy Norris of Wind Power Solutions for a powerful follow-up conversation on where the wind industry is headed — and what it takes to build a company with integrity at its core.
We dive deep into one of the most important conversations in renewables today: blade recycling. Jeremy shares how Wind Power Solutions is tackling end-of-life challenges head on, why sustainability must extend beyond generation, and what responsible stewardship of wind assets truly looks like.
We also unpack a topic that doesn’t get talked about enough — why the best sales professionals in this industry are seasoned field operators first. Experience on the blades, in the nacelle, and on the ground builds credibility that can’t be faked. In wind, respect is earned.
Beyond business, Jeremy opens up about where he and his family are in this season of life, what growth looks like now, and where Wind Power Solutions is going next. From operational excellence to long-term vision, this conversation highlights what happens when strong leadership meets real industry experience.
This is our second time hosting Jeremy — and the depth, honesty, and forward thinking make this one a must-listen for anyone serious about the future of wind energy.

EP 65 - Dave J Reece | BHive Live | Bringing The Work To The Worker Bees

In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Dave J Reece, Founder of BHive Live, a platform built to change the way renewable energy technicians connect with opportunity.
After spending decades in the wind industry, Dave has seen firsthand the challenges technicians face when trying to showcase their skills, track their experience, and connect with the right companies. He’s also seen companies struggle to cut through the noise to find qualified, reliable techs who truly fit their operational needs.
That’s where BHive Live comes in.
Designed specifically for renewable energy technicians, BHive Live allows techs to build detailed professional profiles that highlight certifications, experience, and specialized skills — making it easier than ever to get discovered. For employers, it creates a streamlined way to search, filter, and identify the right technician for the job without relying solely on outdated hiring methods or word-of-mouth.
In this conversation, we dive into:
⚡ Dave’s early start in wind and the evolution of his career⚡ How the hiring landscape in renewables has changed⚡ The biggest gaps between technicians and employers⚡ Why technicians deserve a platform built specifically for them⚡ The long-term vision behind BHive Live
This episode is about ownership, visibility, and the future of workforce development in renewable energy.
If you’re a wind tech, hiring manager, or anyone who cares about building a stronger renewable workforce, this conversation is for you.
Tune in and join the movement. 🌎⚡

EP 64 - David Grant | Flagstone ROC | Breaking Barriers In Remote Operations

When it comes to remote operations centers, David Grant is the guy. In this episode, we sit down with David, co-founder of Flagstone ROC, a remote operations center based out of Tehachapi, to break down what it really takes to monitor, secure, and optimize renewable assets at scale. If you’ve ever wondered how modern ROCs actually work behind the scenes, this conversation sets the bar. 🔐⚡
We dig into how security protocols used to look versus how they operate today—and why that evolution matters as renewables become more connected and data-heavy. David shares insights on the growing complexity of asset monitoring and how the industry has shifted toward more proactive, intelligence-driven operations instead of reactive problem solving.
Data takes center stage as we compare wind, solar, and battery storage. Which technology generates the most data points? And what does that volume mean for real-time decision-making and system reliability? The answers highlight why remote operations centers are quickly becoming mission-critical across the energy landscape. 📊🌬️☀️🔋
We also cover the origin story—how Adam and David met, recognized a gap in the industry, and decided to build Flagstone ROC from the ground up. Add in a few candid stories, plenty of industry insight, and some forward-looking perspective, and this episode delivers a professional, informative, and genuinely fun look at where renewable operations have been—and where they’re headed next. 🎙️🚀

EP 63 - Kasper Hammer | TS Tech | No Bad Days In Wind Training

Kasper shares his journey from the Danish military into instructing the next generation of wind technicians—and why those two worlds naturally go hand in hand. From discipline and preparation to accountability and mindset, he explains how real-world experience shapes better training outcomes.
We dive into why it’s critical for instructors to truly understand what it takes to service a turbine, not just teach from a book. Kasper talks about demystifying the wind turbine—why it shouldn’t be feared, but absolutely must be respected—and why, as an instructor, there’s no room for “off days” when others are depending on your guidance.
This episode offers a unique international perspective on wind training and safety culture. While our environments and countries may differ, the passion for doing the job right, protecting technicians, and elevating the industry is universal. Conversations like this remind us why crossing borders to share stories matters.
⚡ Tune in for a grounded, honest discussion on leadership, training with integrity, and building confident technicians—no matter where in the world you climb.

EP 62 - Ross Bohmann | Altair Energy Services | Altair In The Truckffice

In this episode, we sit down in the Truckffice while on an active wind energy jobsite in Nebraska with Ross Bohmann of Altair Energy Services. With turbine blades actively being set, the conversation captures a real-time perspective from the field.
Ross shares an update on where Altair Energy Services is today and what has fueled the company’s continued growth. We dig into the operational philosophies and workflows that truly sets Altair apart—how their teams execute on site, make decisions in real time, and maintain consistency at scale.
The discussion also turns inward as we talk about the podcast itself, its evolving direction, and the importance of recording conversations directly from the environments where the work is happening. This episode offers a grounded look at leadership, operations, and storytelling within the renewable energy industry—straight from the jobsite, without the studio filter.