Sologistics Spotlight: Ryan Schevis
Welcome to Sologistics Spotlight, an inside look at and celebration of the Sologistics team! This spotlight is on our Executive Project Manager, Ryan Schevis! Ryan’s management expertise and attention to detail ensures that our delivery team regularly manages and processes hundreds of residential and commercial solar projects!
Before Sologistics, your background was in manufacturing and Aerospace. Why move to Renewables?
I started out working as a project manager in semiconductor and medical imaging and later went to work as a contractor at Raytheon in Aerospace. My career before Sologistics brought me to a lot of different industries. Each had their strong points and have allowed me to get to where I am today, but they didn't quite feel like the end destination for me. That changed when I started working at Sologistics. We’re making a difference in New York’s renewable energy, and it feels really good to be a part of the renewable energy sector.
What are some insights you’ve picked up about the New York Solar Market?
It is one of the most tumultuous and exciting industries out there. The New York solar industry is still very much a toddler, and there’s a lot of work to go before it finds its footing. A lot of companies are coming in, exiting, and merging. That has a lot to do with the federal and industry regulations changing. As regulations develop or new laws pass, a lot of companies have to work pretty hard to keep up. The solar incentive programs in particular are carrying the industry right now, and that’s really really important to keep it moving forward.
Favorite parts of your job?
Easily my colleagues, and the clients I work with. I like to think that I am one of the most social people on the team and because of this, I thrive on being around others. I love getting to go to solar trade shows and bumping elbows, shaking hands, and learning about all the cool stuff in the industry. I also love the passion other people have for the job, which isn’t something I ran into very often outside of the renewable industry.
How do you balance being extroverted with being remote?
Poorly (laughs). One of the biggest issues is how much I genuinely miss being in the office. I think hybrid environments would be best for me, but I’m still 4 hours away from NYC, with traffic. But I am working on creative solutions to that - working from cafes, using a shared office space, getting out and interacting with people. I go to every one of the events Sologistics hosts, which gives me some really valuable face time with the team and allows me to visit New York. It’s always nice to actually see a face. Of course I also pack my non-work hours seeing as many people as possible too.
Most exciting thing you’re working on this year so far?
We’re doing a lot of work towards being a frontrunner in solar storage applications at Sologistics. Battery systems with photovoltaic arrays are a huge part of the future of renewables. There are a lot of build regulations that are developing and changing to help New York boost its storage capacity and Sologistics is really focused on staying in front of it. We’re also doing a lot of work in EV Charging as well. I’m not directly involved in our work in the Caribbean yet but there are exciting developments underway there too.
What advice would you give to someone interested in entering the solar industry?
Remember to stay focused on the bigger picture. There are lots of different parts in the solar industry, and it can be easy to lose the forest for the trees. The majority of people in the industry get involved initially based on a desire to make a difference. But people who get into specific roles that aren’t as directly connected to installing solar panels should still keep in mind that they’re contributing in a practical way. Don’t forget that the paperwork and drudgery is all in support of that cause. At Sologistics, we keep the MW per hour and end result in mind as a reminder, while we’re in the weeds. You’re not just a paper pusher. There’s a larger picture…. you are a part of that.
Favorite thing about Sologistics?
Easily the culture. A lot of companies (especially now) like to claim they’re a family, or put employees first, etc. yet still foster environments to the contrary. For us, it’s not just a marketing pitch. The leadership and staff at Sologistics genuinely care about each other’s well being. Today, I actually just got off a call where my boss was genuinely concerned about my well being, even without me saying anything. It’s incredible to work at a place where the culture matters so much and the policies reflect this. Sologistics’ profits are going back into the company and the people. You can see from top to bottom that the people really are the priority here.
“It’s incredible to work at a place where the culture matters so much and the policies reflect this. Sologistics’ profits are going back into the company and the people. You can see from top to bottom that the people really are the priority here.”
How do you see the industry growing/changing/moving in the future?
Energy storage is going to be a big part of it. A lot of regulations are mandating a battery system with solar arrays.This is really helpful for places like New York, where the grid is overtaxed. Instead of replacing and improving the entire system, we can create an effective system of expansion where there’s demand. Smarter to build in a bunch of smaller systems rather than overhauling the whole grid. The regulations aren’t the easiest to keep track of, but all of the people involved in permitting and regulations want the process to be easier and I think it will be streamlined soon, (with our help of course!). In particular, I think a lot of the process could benefit from digitization, where right now much of it requires hand signatures, physical paper submissions, and red tape. There are lots of hurdles to overcome, but everyone wants it to happen. So much opportunity to streamline it in the future.
Favorite things to do outside of work?
Spending time with my kids
Boating
Skiing / Snowboarding
Building / House Projects
Let’s end on a fun question: What song would you add to the Sologistics Soundtrack?
“So Alive” by the Goo Goo Dolls!