Solar Power World is proud to present the inaugural SPW Rising Stars. These solar industry workers are improving the industry and inspiring others to join the green workforce. Read all of our Rising Star profiles here.
Nick Korth is responsible for marketing strategy at cable management manufacturing company HellermannTyton. After getting his start at the Midwest Renewable Energy Association, he has spent his entire career in the solar industry and is a leading voice in the eBOS sector.
What accomplishments are you most proud of so far in your career?
I would say my curiosity and openness is what I am proud of most. I really enjoy talking to my customers every day and understand what they need and want, and in turn I’ve been able to develop innovative parts that have helped push the industry (and eBos) forward. I have also really enjoyed the podcast I’ve created with Jeff Spies, called The Solar Panel, and my pickleball tournament I’ve hosted the last two years in conjunction with RE+. The friends I’ve made in the industry the past 15 years are countless and I’m happy to have been a small part of this energy revolution.
What’s a lesson you learned the hard way in this industry?
This industry has had its share of highs and lows, but each challenge has made me more resilient. By consistently focusing on adding value to both my organization and my customers, I’ve learned that perseverance pays off — the sun always rises the next day.
Who or what has had a major influence on your work in the renewable energy field?
I owe much of my growth to my mentor Amy Heart, who hired me as an intern at the Midwest Renewable Energy Association and remains a close friend still today. Amy, now a VP at Sunrun, is incredibly smart and kind, and her guidance has been invaluable. Early in my career, I also worked with Rex Gillespie at Caleffi, a solar thermal company. Rex gave me the confidence in myself in the manufacturing and solar industries, and my experiences at Caleffi really set me on my path.
Korth reviews Hellermanntyton products in the field.
What’s a Big Idea you have about the renewable energy transition?
I see tremendous potential in green hydrogen and distributed storage. We’re already witnessing the benefits of residential storage in stabilizing the grid in places like Texas and California, and with growing demand from EVs and data centers, decentralized storage will be essential. I’m also intrigued by the potential of green hydrogen to serve as a “peaker plant,” integrating with existing infrastructure to support the transition to cleaner energy. The energy industry moves at an incredible pace, and it’s exciting to be part of such dynamic change.
Why should young people consider careers in the solar space?
Working in solar means you can have a direct impact on both the economy and climate change. This industry offers diverse career paths and the chance to make a good living while helping to create jobs in communities like the rural area I grew up in. Supporting the manufacturing and installation of solar modules is rewarding work that contributes to a cleaner future. We need young, smart talent to keep driving the industry forward.
Are there any companies or organizations that have especially helped to foster your career in solar?
To start my career, I was fortunate to find an internship with the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA). MREA is a leading advocacy and training organization in the U.S. Going from intern to manager there, I was so fortunate to learn from some of the best training professionals in the country. Being able to learn about solar every day from as many brilliant trainers as I was able to was invaluable.