Powering jobs in the New Energy Economy: Meet Troy Waddell
Troy Waddell, 44, is a journeyman electrician for KACO new energy.
Troy wires up the Integrated Power Stations that convert the DC power from solar panels into usable AC power that flows into the grid. KACO new energy builds the power stations at its new 56,000 square foot manufacturing plant on Binz-Engleman Road. Known as “skids,” they are shipped from the factory with all the wiring and equipment pre-assembled, saving solar companies substantial installation costs.
Troy does some work on site, out at the solar farms, but mainly he works at the factory. We spoke with him as part of our ongoing series “Powering jobs in the New Energy Economy” to highlight some of the diverse San Antonians hired to fill the nearly 300 jobs already created by CPS Energy’s partner companies.
How long have you worked for KACO new energy, and what did you do before that?
“About four months. I came from ERCAM Trackers, which makes the trusses that hold up the solar panels. I worked as an industrial welder at ERCAM. Before that I did some other electrical work.”
Were you looking to get into the solar field specifically?
“I was looking for something in renewable energy, because I believe creating clean energy is the way of the future. I love it. I love learning these new technologies, and knowing how these processes work. This is the future.”
What kind of training did you have?
“I actually got a lot of on the job training. I did have basic electrical training and some assembly. I had done some manufacturing in the past.”
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