922: From One Engineer to 1 in 6 Utility-Scale Projects | Tyler Nelson, Revamp

In this episode of Suncast, host interviews Tyler Nelson, founder and president of Revamp Engineering, a firm that has become a cornerstone of the U.S. utility-scale solar and storage industry. With a career spanning from early SunPower projects to building Revamp into a company responsible for roughly 15% of all utility-scale solar installations and 10% of battery projects in the U.S., Tyler shares the strategic, cultural, and operational insights behind Revamp’s success. He discusses how the company leveraged early industry credibility, the 'SunPower effect,' and a culture of problem-solving to scale rapidly—especially during the pandemic, when Revamp grew from 13 to 100 people in two years. A pivotal moment came in 2025 when Tyler transitioned Revamp into an employee-owned company via an ESOP, reinforcing long-term commitment and trust. The conversation dives into how Revamp maintains quality at scale through automation, hiring from outside the industry, and a relentless focus on culture and psychological safety. Tyler also reflects on the evolving landscape of hybrid projects, data center demand, and the importance of leadership humility, transparency, and long-term thinking in building a 100-year company. The episode underscores that engineering excellence is not just technical—it’s deeply human, rooted in trust, team, and values. Key takeaways include: 1) Trust is earned through track record and problem-solving, not just technical drawings; 2) Scaling a firm isn’t about hiring more engineers—it’s about building a culture where people can bring their full selves to work; 3) The most sustainable competitive advantage is a company that treats its people well, which directly translates to client satisfaction and project success; 4) Long-term vision—like transitioning to an ESOP—can align ownership, purpose, and employee motivation; 5) The future of energy is hybrid, and engineering firms must be agile in integrating renewables with other technologies while staying true to their core mission.