Sologistics Spotlight: Matthew Mathosian, Design & Engineering Production Specialist

Welcome back to the Sologistics Spotlight, an inside look at and celebration of the Sologistics team! This spotlight is on Matt, our fantastic design expert. Read on to learn all about Matt and his solar design work at Sologistics.

Solar Design Expertise

In his role, Matt designs and engineers flat and sloped roof solar systems for both commercial and residential buildings. He also reviews solar designs from other contractors to ensure that the plans are NYC code compliant so that DOB approval is received the first time. Matt has 16 years of solar experience, holds a BA in Architecture, and is a NABCEP Certified PV Professional.

Background in Solar

Matt deepened his interest in solar as a result of studying architecture in college at the NY Institute of Technology. While in school, he participated in the 2011 Solar Decathlon Team which is an interdisciplinary and national competition, at the time sponsored by NREL. The competition challenges student teams to design and construct a fully sustainable and renewable energy-powered building, which is then transported to Washington DC where it must successfully run for 30 days while being judged. Through this experience, Matt honed his passion for the architectural aspects of solar design and made connections within the renewable energy industry. His participation in the Solar Decathlon served as a further catalyst to his career in solar.

Sologistics Experience

Matt has been a part of the Sologistics team for almost two years. From his very first interaction with Sologistics, he experienced an instant connection and was excited by the talent on the team. For Matt, it is a pleasure to work on a team with the expertise and dedication to advancing solar in NYC. His favorite part of working at Sologistics is the relaxed environment and the great team. Matt says that it is a pleasure to be on such a skilled and efficient team of true professionals and experts. The geographic-specific challenges of the job are interpreting the extensive DOB and FDNY codes and designing with the limited roof space in NYC. Of course, Matt skillfully handles these challenges. 

Here’s what his co-workers have to say about working with Matt. Project Coordinator Juanita Watkis shares that “Matt is a highly knowledgeable designer who never hesitates to offer insight and guidance. He is very dedicated to his work and a great team player. It is a pleasure having him as part of the Sologistics team.”  Project Manager Kimoya Francis says, “I’ve had a great experience working with Matt since he has joined the Sologistics team. His mastery of solar design in the NYC market and beyond is incomparable and he has helped me to expand my own knowledge.” Delivery Team Manager Ryan Schevis shares: “Matt is the first one on our meetings each morning.  He is consistently available upon request, for both; internal discussion or to jump on a client call. He is humble and realistic about his contributions to the team and company. Matt is a key asset that continues to deliver top-notch materials for our clients.”

Value-Based Culture

Out of the ten Sologistics guiding principles, Matt most appreciates the following principle: We try to learn, evolve and improve in all we do. In Matt’s experience, working at Sologistics is a constant learning process as each project presents unique circumstances. Solar design requires creative problem solving due to the variety and lack of standardization between job types from old buildings, new construction, new code requirements, differing zoning requirements, to working with different contractors.  Matt enjoys finding the best and most efficient ways to solve problems and then passing on the learned knowledge. 

NYC Solar

Compared to when Matt started in New York solar, there are now significant amounts of solar being installed and many projects in the pipeline in the city. In fact, it is now much more common to encounter solar on any block in NYC. Having worked in the solar industry for over ten years, it has been amazing for Matt to watch the industry grow and evolve with building permit requirements relaxing, incentives increasing, equipment costs decreasing, and the overall more widespread adoption of solar.

Matt’s advice to those interested in working solar is that there are many areas within solar to get involved with regardless of whether you have studied renewable energy in school. It is inspiring to be in an industry with great people committed to working towards an important cause all while in an enjoyable work environment.

Additional Fun

Outside of solar, Matt is passionate about restoring classic cars and participating in car shows. He is especially proud of his restored 1971 Datsun 240Z which has won numerous awards. Matt developed his love of engines and working on cars from his father. He also enjoys 3D printing which he sometimes utilizes to print car parts.

If Matt could be an apex animal he would choose an Elephant due to their extreme intelligence, attentiveness, excellent memory, and caring personality. His song choice for the Sologistics soundtrack is Bein' Green by Joe Raposo performed by Kermit the Frog or Ray Charles.