In honor of Veteran's Day, host Nick de Vries is joined by former U.S. Army Special Forces officer Keyes Metcalf to explore how his military training prepared him for leadership in the solar industry. We'll find out how drones, digital twins, and AI are transforming project management, boosting efficiency while keeping human expertise at the center. From navigating complex construction schedules to tackling supply chain issues, Keyes offers insight into how technology and teamwork are driving the next era of solar innovation, including advances in battery storage and automation.

Scott Canada, President of Renewable Energy at McCarthy Building Companies, brings over 27 years of experience in the solar industry. In this episode, Scott shares with host Nick de Vries how solar project construction has transformed over the past 15 years, with a sharper focus on data, safety, quality, and productivity. He highlights McCarthy's innovative use of digital tools, from GIS systems to design scoring and data analytics, that drive a continuous improvement cycle to optimize future projects. As Scott transitions into leading McCarthy's data center construction business, he reflects on how these same data-driven strategies and process improvements will shape the next chapter of his career.

Jeff Dykes, president and CEO of BrightRidge Electric, shares how the Tennessee-based public power utility partnered with Silicon Ranch to develop solar projects under TVA's Generation Flexibility Program, enabling BrightRidge to deliver renewable energy while lowering costs for customers and funding STEM and tech programs in local schools. Focused on community service over profit, the utility also engages students in energy education and supports local economic growth. These projects have improved grid reliability and exemplify how renewable energy partnerships can generate widespread community benefits.