259 | From Oilfields to Solar Fields: Building Ridgeline Solar and the Future of Clean Energy

About this episode

Drew Mair discusses his transition from the oil and gas sector to founding Ridgeline Solar, focusing on entrepreneurship and the future of clean energy.

In this episode of the Art of Consulting Podcast , hosts Andy Fry and Cat Lam sit down with Drew Mair , President of Ridgeline Solar, to explore his inspiring journey from Alberta's oil and gas sector to building one of the most respected solar manpower companies in Western Canada. Drew shares how his early career as an electrician shaped his transition into renewable energy, and the challenges of moving from "one guy in a truck" to running a full-fledged solar construction business. He talks candidly about balancing golden handcuffs with flexibility, the risks of entrepreneurship, and the mindset shift from being self-employed to leading a team. The conversation dives into: Starting Ridgeline Solar – why Drew left the oilfields to build something of his own Golden Handcuffs vs. Flexibility – making the choice to prioritize freedom and family over security Scaling a Business – moving from solopreneur to building teams, hiring operations managers, and creating systems Pipeline Fears – how Drew manages the ever-present fear of "dry spells" in project work Quality and Transparency – why Ridgeline Solar stands apart, with in-house electricians, rigorous QA, and complete transparency…

People in this episode

Hosts: Andy Fry, Cat Lam

Guest: Drew Mair

Topics covered

• clean energy
• entrepreneurship
• solar energy
• business growth
• renewable energy
• career transition

Keywords

• solar energy
• entrepreneurship
• clean energy
• Ridgeline Solar
• Alberta
• business growth
• renewable energy
• electrician
• scaling a business

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Ridgeline Solar

Places: Alberta, Western Canada

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