What happens when solar projects outgrow the workflows built to design them?

In this episode of Sounds of Solar, we talk with Clarke DeLisle, Product Development Lead at EVS, about how automation is reshaping utility scale solar engineering. Clarke shares what it looks like when traditional design workflows start to strain under growing project complexity, and how smarter tools can help engineers move faster without losing judgment or rigor. The conversation explores where automation genuinely adds value versus where hype can fall flat, how human expertise still anchors good design, and what skills will matter most as AI becomes part of everyday engineering work. Clarke also reflects on learning in fast-changing industries, taking smart risks, and building better ways of working from the inside out.

What really happens after you graduate with an engineering degree?

In this episode of Sounds of Solar, emerging engineers in electrical power studies, substations, and civil engineering share candid perspectives on their first years in the renewable energy industry. From imposter syndrome and steep learning curves to mentorship, asking questions, and finding purpose in their work, this conversation explores the realities of moving from classroom theory to real-world engineering. A thoughtful look at early careers, growth, and what it truly means to become an engineer in renewables.

In this episode of Sounds of Solar, we sit down with Ryan Grady, Director of Transmission at EVS, to unpack why the U.S. transmission grid is under unprecedented pressure. As aging infrastructure collides with explosive load growth from data centers, electrification, and renewable energy, transmission has become one of the most critical bottlenecks in the energy transition. Ryan explains how decades old lines are being pushed beyond their original design intent, why reliability and resilience are now central to planning decisions, and what utilities and engineers are doing to adapt. From data center driven demand to emerging design strategies, this conversation explores how transmission is being reshaped to support the grid we will rely on for decades to come.