In this compelling episode of the Destination for Innovation series, brought to you by the City of Bakersfield and Green Tech Network, we hear from Janelle Capra, President and CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Embracing Legacy and Leading with Kindness: Janelle Capra's Vision for Bakersfield's Future
In this compelling episode of the Destination for Innovation series, brought to you by the City of Bakersfield and Green Tech Network, we hear from Janelle Capra, President and CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Janelle's journey through Bakersfield's vibrant community and her inspiring leadership highlight the significance of connection, collaboration, and compassion.
Key Takeaways:
Community Legacy: Janelle shares how she was inspired by her predecessors and the rich history of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. She seeks to honor that legacy while forging a path for the future.
Guidance for the Next Generation: Janelle's advice to her daughters, emphasizing that "magic happens outside of your comfort zone," demonstrates the importance of challenging oneself to grow.
Unity in the Community: Janelle reflects on Bakersfield's unique sense of unity, where people come together to support one another. She believes in the power of community to drive positive change.
Compassion as a Superpower: Janelle's belief that "kindness is not a weakness" underscores her approach to leadership and her hope to leave a lasting legacy of encouraging others to be their best selves.
Join us for a deep dive into Janelle Capra's story and discover why Bakersfield is truly the destination for innovation.
Let's connect, collaborate, and create a brighter future together.
Les Mood
Pioneering Renewable Energy: Ella Henanipuakea Aki's Journey Towards Sustainable Change
Cultivating Innovation in Kern County: Insights from Chief Economic Development Officer Jim Damian
Cultivating Innovation in Kern County: Insights from Chief Economic Development Officer Jim Damian
In this enlightening episode of the Destination for Innovation series, brought to you by the City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Jim Damian, the Chief Economic Development Officer of Kern County.
Jim shares his unique journey from a private sector entrepreneur who led a successful technology company to spearheading economic development efforts in Kern County. His insights shed light on how Kern County is fostering an environment ripe for innovation and economic growth.
Key Takeaways:
Community and Collaboration: Jim emphasizes the importance of community and collaborative efforts in driving economic success, highlighting how Kern County's spirit of cooperation has been essential for fostering innovation.
Strategic Advantage: Kern County's unique geology, geography, and community spirit form the "secret sauce" that makes it a prime destination for business and innovation. Jim illustrates how these elements combine to create a robust platform for growth and opportunity.
Government's Role in Innovation: Despite being part of the government, Jim describes how Kern County embraces a culture of experimentation and innovation, aiming to streamline processes and support entrepreneurs and businesses effectively.
Championing Economic Development: Jim's approach to economic development focuses on removing barriers and ensuring that government processes are clear and facilitate rather than hinder progress.
Join us as Jim Damian details how Kern County is not just keeping pace but setting the pace in economic innovation and development.
Let's connect, collaborate, and create a future where innovation continues to flourish.
Les Mood
Empowering Communities through Solar: Insights from Matthew Campbell
Empowering Communities through Solar: Insights from Matthew Campbell
In this insightful episode of the Destination for Innovation series, brought to you by the City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network, we're joined by Matthew Campbell, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Discover Energy Systems. Matthew brings a wealth of experience from his extensive career in the energy storage and solar industry, starting from his early days at Xantrex Technologies to his pivotal role at Discover Energy Systems, focusing on lithium and solar business solutions.
Matthew shares his journey through the evolving landscape of energy technology and markets, offering unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing homeowners and the industry in California’s ever-changing energy rates landscape.
Key Takeaways:
The Evolution of Energy Storage: Matthew discusses the transformative journey of the energy storage sector, highlighting the shift towards lithium technology and the importance of manufacturers working collaboratively to ensure seamless integration of energy solutions.
Empowering Homeowners with Solar and Storage: With an emphasis on the practical benefits of combining solar panels and energy storage systems, Matthew provides actionable insights for homeowners looking to mitigate high energy costs, backed by federal tax credits and the intrinsic value of solar energy.
Community and Industry Collaboration: Illustrating the significance of community and industry partnerships, Matthew underscores the role of collective efforts in advancing energy technology adoption and ensuring products work together efficiently for both installers and homeowners.
Bakersfield as a Hub for Innovation: Reflecting on the potential of Bakersfield to become a destination for innovation, Matthew advocates for closer collaboration with authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) to simplify codes and compliance, thereby facilitating easier installation of energy systems and fosteri
Celebrating Art, Community, and Innovation with Jeanette Richardson
Celebrating Art, Community, and Innovation with Jeanette Richardson
In this captivating episode of the Destination for Innovation series, brought to you by the City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network, we speak with Jeanette Richardson, a visionary artist, author, mentor, and Executive Director at the Arts Council of Kern.
From her early days in San Francisco to her influential role in Bakersfield, Jeanette shares her journey through art, the profound impact of community support, and the enduring spirit of creativity that defines Bakersfield as a hub for innovation.
Key Takeaways:
Community as a Catalyst: Jeanette's story is a testament to the power of community in fostering artistic talent and innovation. Her work illustrates how community support can transform individual grief into collective growth and creativity.
The Importance of Asking and Trying: Emphasizing the need to seek opportunities and engage with art, Jeanette encourages everyone to explore their creative potential, reminding us that the journey of art is about being true to oneself, not achieving perfection.
Art as a Vehicle for Innovation: Reflecting on the unique cultural landscape of Bakersfield, Jeanette underlines the role of art in driving innovation, showing how artistic endeavors can inspire new ideas and bring people together in pursuit of a brighter future.
A Call to Action for Community Engagement: Highlighting her return to the Arts Council to further contribute to the arts scene, Jeanette's narrative is a call to action for everyone to play an active role in nurturing creativity within their communities.
Join us for a journey into the heart of Bakersfield's artistic community, where Jeanette Richardson's passion and dedication shine a light on the endless possibilities that art and innovation can unlock.
Let's connect, collaborate, and create a more vibrant future, inspired by the arts.
Navigating the Future of Electric Vehicles with Brittany Blair
Navigating the Future of Electric Vehicles with Brittany Blair
In this latest episode of the Destination for Innovation series, brought to you by The City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network, we delve into the electrifying world of electric vehicles (EVs) with Brittany Blair, Senior Analyst at Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA). Join us as Brittany shares her expertise on transportation electrification, the transformative power of community engagement in innovation, and the pivotal role of patience and perseverance in advancing sustainable energy solutions.
Key Takeaways:
Electric Vehicles at the Forefront: Brittany emphasizes the significant role of electric vehicles in the future of transportation, shedding light on the current state of public charging infrastructure and the journey towards widespread EV adoption.
Community Engagement as a Catalyst: Highlighting innovative initiatives like Austin Energy's educational programs, Brittany illustrates how community involvement and education are key to fostering a supportive environment for EVs and other green technologies.
Patience and Long-term Vision: Reflecting on the challenges and opportunities within the EV sector, Brittany reminds us that meaningful change requires time, communication, and a commitment to seeing projects through, despite the urgency to accelerate progress.
Bakersfield's Role in Innovation: Brittany envisions Bakersfield as a vibrant hub for demonstration projects and pilot programs, suggesting that such initiatives could not only showcase new technologies but also attract further interest and investment in the region.
Brittany's insights offer a glimpse into the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for electric vehicles and renewable energy, reinforcing the importance of collaboration, community, and long-term strategic planning in achieving a sustainable future.
Join us for an inspiring conversation that not only explores Brittany's journey and the evolution of electric vehicles bu
Unveiling Bakersfield's Innovation Pathway with Justin Salters
Unveiling Bakersfield's Innovation Pathway with Justin Salters
In the latest episode of the Destination for Innovation series, brought to you by The City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network, we sit down with Justin Salters, Interim Executive Director at B3K Prosperity and Founder & President of Hey Salty.
Justin shares his journey from a passionate communicator in high school to a leading figure in Bakersfield's economic development and community engagement. Discover the insights from his roles that blend the art of communication with the science of meaningful impact in our community.
Key Takeaways:
Local Roots, Global Impact: Justin’s deep-rooted connection to Bakersfield powers his mission to foster growth and prosperity in the community, emphasizing the crucial role of communication in achieving these goals.
Economic Development and Inclusivity: Through B3K Prosperity, Justin focuses on creating equitable opportunities for all, particularly in reducing the number of children in struggling families by enhancing job access and training.
Resilience in Entrepreneurship: Reflecting on the challenges of starting his business during uncertain times, Justin underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the significance of setting clear goals.
The Power of Community: Justin envisions a collaborative Bakersfield where innovation thrives on hard work, grit, and the willingness of its people to invest in one another's success.
Join us to explore how Justin Salters is helping to carve a path towards a more inclusive and prosperous future for Bakersfield and beyond.
Connect. Collaborate. Create.
Les Mood
Navigating California's GreenTech Evolution with Gia Brazil Vacin
Navigating California's GreenTech Evolution with Gia Brazil Vacin
In this enlightening episode of the Destination for Innovation series, brought to you by the City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network, we stand below the Golden Gate Bridge to speak with Gia Brazil Vacin, Deputy Director of Zero Emission Vehicle Market Development at the California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz).
Explore Gia's journey from her deep-rooted passion for the natural environment to leading the charge in California's Zero Emission Vehicle initiative. Learn how her early involvement in marine biology and ocean sciences paved the way for a career dedicated to fostering sustainable transportation solutions and environmental stewardship.
Key Takeaways:
Interconnection of People and Planet: Gia underscores the intrinsic link between our treatment of the planet and each other, stressing the need for holistic environmental and societal care.
Embracing Side Roads: Gia encourages embracing diverse paths and being open to opportunities that align with core values and purpose, illustrating how this approach led her to a meaningful role in Zero Emission Vehicle market development.
The Importance of Community: Highlighting California's diverse communities, Gia discusses their crucial role in bringing innovative ideas and ensuring inclusivity in the transition to greener technologies.
California's GreenTech Leadership: Gia attributes California's success in advancing Zero Emission Vehicles to the dynamic synergy between progressive public policies and pioneering private sector innovations.
Bakersfield's Innovative Potential: She points out Bakersfield's unique position to contribute to and benefit from the greentech evolution, emphasizing the region's key role in California's innovative landscape.
Engage with us as Gia Brazil Vacin shares insights into California's commitment to a sustainable and equitable transportation future, powered by Zero Emission Vehicles
Navigating the Future of Innovation with Jeremy Alan Woods at CSUB
Navigating the Future of Innovation with Jeremy Alan Woods at CSUB
In this thought-provoking episode of the Destination for Innovation series, brought to you by the City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network, we speak with Jeremy Alan Woods, Associate Professor of Management and Faculty Director at CSUB Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation.
Join us as we explore Jeremy's journey from Indiana to Bakersfield, delving into his extensive experience in entrepreneurship, venture management, and the transformative power of empathy and dreaming big.
Key Takeaways:
Empathy as a Catalyst: Jeremy emphasizes the importance of empathy in fostering a better world, advocating for understanding and support across the human race.
Championing Entrepreneurship: Through his work at CSUB, Jeremy has been instrumental in advancing over 20 ventures alone in the last year, highlighting the significant impact of nurturing entrepreneurs within our community.
Dreaming Big: Encouraging individuals to dream without limits, Jeremy shares insights on overcoming societal vitriol and fostering kindness worldwide.
Bakersfield & Kern County's Unique Position: With a spotlight on the rare confluence of aerospace, energy, and agriculture, Jeremy discusses Kern County's unmatched potential to lead in innovation and industry.
The Power of Community: Addressing the essential role of community in achieving inclusive and equitable energy transitions, Jeremy offers a vision for leveraging Kern County's strengths to redefine its global significance.
Join us for a compelling conversation that not only showcases Jeremy's personal and professional journey but also casts a vision for Kern Bakersfield's role as a hub of innovation and growth.
Let's connect, collaborate, and create a brighter future for Bakersfield and beyond.
Connect. Collaborate. Create.
Les
Empowering Literacy and Entrepreneurship in Bakersfield with Mike Russo
Empowering Literacy and Entrepreneurship in Bakersfield with Mike Russo
In the latest episode of the Destination for Innovation series, we're delighted to feature Mike Russo, a cornerstone of Bakersfield's business and educational community. As the owner of Russo's Books and a dedicated educator at the Regional Occupation Center, Mike shares his journey of fostering literacy and nurturing future entrepreneurs in Bakersfield.
Key Takeaways:
Dual Passion for Business and Education: With a rich background in both realms, Mike emphasizes the importance of literacy and entrepreneurship as pillars for personal and community growth.
Legacy of Literacy: Through Russo's Books, Mike has been instrumental in spreading the joy of reading and the power of knowledge across the community for over three decades.
Empowering Future Entrepreneurs: In his role as an educator, Mike focuses on expanding students' horizons, instilling confidence, and highlighting the endless possibilities that await them.
Resilience and Persistence: Mike underscores the significance of persistence in both business and personal endeavors, encouraging students and professionals alike to persevere through challenges.
Vision for Bakersfield: Reflecting on Bakersfield's potential as an innovation hub, Mike calls for unified efforts to leverage the region's rich energy resources and educational opportunities to shape a brighter future.
The Destination for Innovation series is brought to you by The City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network.
Connect. Collaborate. Create.
Elevating Solar Energy Through Innovation and Community Engagement: A Conversation with Rudy Saporite
Elevating Solar Energy Through Innovation and Community Engagement: A Conversation with Rudy Saporite
In the latest episode of the Destination for Innovation series, we had the privilege of speaking with Rudy Saporite, Program Director at the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS), during our time at Intersolar North America Energy Storage North America in beautiful San Diego. Rudy shared his unique journey from a hands-on tradesperson to a leading figure in the solar energy sector, underscoring the importance of community, technology, and education in driving the industry forward.
Key Takeaways:
Rudy’s approach to solar energy not just as a standalone field but as a vital proficiency within the electrical trade, highlighting the significance of integrating solar into the broader scope of building science and energy storage solutions.
His dedication to enhancing the solar industry through quality management, workforce development, and the creation of standards and codes to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability in solar installations across the country.
The pivotal role of community in solar projects, from fostering job opportunities to embracing innovative practices for sustainable energy, Rudy emphasizes the collective effort needed to transition towards a greener future.
Rudy’s insights remind us that the path to a sustainable energy future is paved with collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to quality and education. His work with IBTS and beyond serves as an inspiring example of how we can harness the power of solar energy to make a significant impact on our world.
The Destination for Innovation series is brought to you by The City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network, showcasing leaders and innovators who are shaping the future of energy, sustainability, and community resilience.
Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations and join us in our journey to connect, collaborate, and create a brighter, more sustainable future.
Pioneering Solar Innovation with Matt Campbell on the Destination for Innovation
Pioneering Solar Innovation with Matt Campbell on the Destination for Innovation
We had the privilege of speaking with Matt Campbell, CEO & Co-Founder of Terabase Energy Inc., at the recent Intersolar North America Energy Storage North America event in San Diego.
In this enlightening interview, Matt shares his journey from a science fair project to leading one of the most innovative companies in utility-scale solar technology. With over 40 years in the solar sector, Matt's career evolution mirrors the exponential growth and impact of solar energy worldwide. From early skepticism to building projects that power cities, his story is a testament to the transformative power of renewable energy.
Key Takeaways:
Matt's unique background in technology, from software to semiconductors, and how it shaped his path to solar energy.
The formation of Terabase Energy and its mission to scale utility solar to meet global energy needs sustainably.
Insights into the challenges and triumphs of solar energy development, including the pivotal role of digital and robotics technology in deploying solar at terawatt scale.
Matt's vision for Bakersfield as a global solar hub and the importance of community engagement in renewable energy projects.
Matt's perspective underscores the critical role of innovation, collaboration, and community in achieving a sustainable energy future. As we strive for a cleaner planet, stories like Matt's inspire action and reaffirm the potential of renewable energy to change the world.
This episode from the Destination for Innovation series is brought to you by the City of Bakersfield and the GreenTech Network, highlighting the leaders and innovators driving the future.
Bakersfield: A Global Solar Hub Shaping the Future of Renewable Energy
In a recent discussion at ISNAESNA, Matt Campbell, CEO & Co-Founder of Terabase Energy Inc., highlighted Bakersfield's significant contribution to the solar energy sector. Acknowledging the city's global impact, Campbell underscored Bakersfield's pioneering role and its supportive stance towards large-scale solar projects.
"Bakersfield is really one of the solar hubs in the whole world," Campbell stated, recognizing the area's remarkable resources and achievements in renewable energy.
With California's ambitious renewable goals, Bakersfield's continued support and innovation in solar energy are more crucial than ever. Campbell suggests further engagement in research and development and #technology advancements as key areas where Bakersfield can expand its influence.
As projects proliferate across the Central Valley and desert regions, Bakersfield's strategic position and forward-thinking approach offer a unique opportunity to lead in renewable energy #innovation.
This episode from the Destination for Innovation series is brought to you by The City of Bakersfield and the GreenTech Network.
#alternenativeenergy #future #greentech
Connect. Collaborate. Create.
Les
Revolutionizing the Energy Sector with John Zahurancik of Fluence, a Siemens and AES Company
Revolutionizing the Energy Sector with John Zahurancik of Fluence, a Siemens and AES Company
Join us in this enlightening episode of the Destination for Innovation series, where we dive deep with John Zahurancik, President of Americas at Fluence. Discover how Fluence is leading the charge in transforming our energy landscape with large-scale battery solutions and complimentary technology. John shares his journey from dreaming big to implementing tangible changes that enhance grid efficiency, reduce costs, and lower emissions, while enhancing reliability.
From pioneering energy storage technologies to envisioning a future powered by renewable sources, John's insights are not just about reimagining power but actualizing a sustainable and equitable energy future.
Key Takeaways:
The pivotal role of large-scale batteries in modernizing the power grid.
The evolution of renewable energy from a niche to a dominant force in the market.
The necessity of complementary technologies like energy storage for a reliable power supply.
The potential of community engagement in driving policy and infrastructure changes.
This conversation is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolution of the greentech industry and the technological, policy, and community-driven efforts that make it possible.
Brought to you by The City of Bakersfield and GreenTech Network.
How do you see energy storage shaping the future of our power systems? Share your thoughts and insights below.
Connect. Collaborate. Create.
Les Mood
