The Achievement Category honors the exceptional leaders, innovators, and visionaries whose contributions have significantly advanced the solar industry. These individuals and teams exemplify excellence in their respective fields, whether through strategic leadership, operational success, or groundbreaking developments. Their efforts have not only propelled their organizations to new heights but have also had a profound impact on the industry’s overall progression towards sustainability.

These awards recognize outstanding achievements that demonstrate a deep commitment to the growth and influence of solar energy worldwide. Join us in celebrating the dedication and success of these pioneers who are instrumental in driving the solar industry forward and making a lasting impact on our planet’s energy landscape.

Excellence In Achievement Awards

Industry MVP Award

The 2024 Industry MVP Award salutes the extraordinary individuals whose actions are characterized by selflessness and resilience, setting a gold standard for conduct within the solar sector. These individuals earn widespread respect through their exemplary behavior and steadfast adherence to honesty and integrity. This award recognizes those who have made significant, positive impacts on the solar industry through their commendable actions and ethical practices, truly embodying the spirit of an MVP in every aspect of their professional endeavors.

Vanguard Award

The Vanguard Award is bestowed upon visionary leaders who exhibit fearlessness and a relentless drive to push the boundaries of the solar industry. Recognized for pioneering innovative solutions and adeptly navigating the ever-evolving landscape of solar technology and market demands, these changemakers inspire progress and transformation. This accolade honors individuals who not only anticipate the future but actively shape it, embodying the spirit of innovation and leadership that propels the solar industry forward.

Comeback Player of the Year

This prestigious award celebrates the remarkable individuals in the solar industry who exemplify resilience in the face of adversity. Honoring those who have battled through mental, physical, or emotional challenges with grit and unwavering determination, this award highlights the triumphant return and perseverance of individuals who have overcome significant obstacles to reclaim their positions of influence and success in the solar sector.

Excellence in Company Culture

This award is a tribute to companies that foster an environment of inclusivity, empowerment, and continuous growth. Recognized for their servant leadership and commitment to process-oriented operations, these companies set the standard for a positive and dynamic company culture. By prioritizing the well-being and development of their teams, these organizations not only excel in their operational achievements but also contribute to a healthier, more vibrant solar industry.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Celebrating a career dedicated to advancing the solar industry, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals with at least 5-7 years of exemplary service who have received overwhelming support from their peers. These are the luminaries whose supportive nature, uplifting presence, and unwavering commitment to core values have made a lasting impact, driving the industry forward with purposeful actions and vibrant contributions.

Unsung Hero Award

The Unsung Hero Award shines a spotlight on the invaluable individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes. Whether they are spouses, partners, assistants, or collaborators, their dedication plays a pivotal role in advancing the solar industry. This award honors their silent contributions, celebrating the profound impact of their support, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the success of the industry.

Industry Coach of the Year

This accolade honors the exceptional coaches in the solar industry, whose dedication, tenacity, and ability to inspire admiration make them indispensable to their teams or mentees. Recognized for their instrumental success in nurturing talent and fostering professional growth, these coaches have made an indelible impact, guiding their protégés towards outstanding achievements in the solar sector.

Charitable Champion Award

Celebrating the spirit of altruism within the solar industry, the Charitable Champion Award recognizes individuals and companies that exemplify selflessness, caring, integrity, and dedication through their charitable endeavors. This award honors those who inspire others with their commitment to making a difference, supporting causes within or related to the solar industry, and positively impacting communities and the environment.

Achievement Committee

Abby Buchmiller stands out as an Inc. 5000-recognized Chief Executive and a pioneering force in the solar industry, demonstrating a leadership style that's both innovative and results-driven. With a commendable 15-year tenure at the executive level across contracting and skilled trades, she's redefined the CEO archetype, merging strategic acumen with relentless drive and creativity. Under her guidance, her teams don't just reach targets; they surpass them, propelled by a culture of passion and ingenuity. As CEO, Abby's impressive feats include escalating annual sales revenue to $250 million in four years, building a committed 500-member team, and significantly impacting the solar sector through a standout dealer program and extensive installations.

At the helm of RDCL Services, a venture she co-founded, Abby is spearheading the transformation of the solar construction process with an innovative on-demand service model. Her strategic vision has fueled RDCL's growth, facilitating the installation of 150 MW of solar energy across over 20,000 homes and expanding operations across 18 states with 20 branches—all in just four years. Abby's leadership not only drives financial success and expansion but also cultivates a brand and workplace culture characterized by empowerment and appeal, setting new standards in the industry and positioning RDCL as a trailblazer in solar technology and services.

Jenz, the visionary founder of MOMENTUM Mental & Emotional Performance, is renowned for his expertise in enhancing the mental and emotional well-being of business professionals globally. Leveraging the powerful MOMENTUM framework, which integrates principles of performance psychology and therapeutic practices, Jenz has successfully empowered business owners, entrepreneurs, and managers to achieve greater fulfillment, healing, and productivity. His innovative approach extends beyond individual success, benefiting organizations by improving retention rates, cultivating a positive culture, and boosting overall performance.

With an impressive educational background that includes a PhD in Psychology and an MBA, Jenz combines academic rigor with practical experience. His tenure at prestigious institutions like Goldman Sachs and roles in corporate sales have provided him with a unique perspective on the demands of high-stakes environments. This blend of knowledge and real-world insight enables Jenz to design strategies that are both effective and empathetic, making him a sought-after expert in the field of mental and emotional performance optimization.

John Frampton is recognized as a trailblazer in the solar direct-to-home sector, embarking on his journey in 2007 with a deep-seated commitment to service and empowerment. His illustrious career includes a key leadership role as Senior Vice President at SolarCity, a tenure marked by innovation and growth before its acquisition by Tesla, culminating in his current position as CEO of NIVO Solar. Under John's guidance, NIVO Solar champions an ethos of growth, positivity, and transformative change, aiming to leave an indelible mark on the sales community, its employees, and the next generation of industry innovators. His leadership philosophy not only drives business success but fosters a nurturing environment where individuals are encouraged to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the solar industry.

Beyond his professional achievements, John is profoundly committed to giving back to the community, serving on the board of Lift Up Voices, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering disadvantaged youth. With the steadfast support of his family, friends, and mentors, John aspires to excellence and professionalism, embodying a mission-driven approach to catalyze positive change globally. Living by his motto, "#ForTheBetter," John embraces every challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning, aiming to inspire others to adopt a mindset that every experience, good or bad, contributes to a greater good.

Joe 'Moose' Mousakheel is a distinguished figure in the solar sales industry, with a commendable track record that spans over two decades in sales, including more than eight fruitful years in the solar sector. His exceptional performance, demonstrated by averaging over 200 installations annually for three consecutive years, rightfully garnered him the "Salesman of the Year" accolade in 2017. Joe's dedication to fostering community and collaboration is evident in his creation of the Solar Objections Facebook group, a thriving online platform with over 25,000 members dedicated to addressing challenges and sharing insights within the solar community.

Beyond facilitating dialogue and peer support, Joe has cemented his influence in the industry through co-founding SolarCon, the premier conference for solar professionals, now celebrated for its third successful year. His entrepreneurial spirit also shines in his co-ownership of Virtual Solar Club and Sunivo, where he continues to drive innovation in solar sales strategies and solutions. Residing in Sacramento, California, Joe is not only admired for his professional achievements but also cherished for his dedication to his family, demonstrating that success is not only measured by career milestones but also by the love and commitment to one's loved ones.

Dustin Mansell is the esteemed Senior Director of Business Development & Strategy at GoodLeap, leveraging his extensive 24-year tenure in residential financing and sustainable home improvements. His career, rooted in the mortgage industry, evolved through roles from owning a brokerage to pivotal positions during his time with Paramount Equity Mortgage, where he transitioned to the solar sector with Paramount Solar, ultimately contributing to its acquisition by SolarCity and later Tesla.

Now with GoodLeap, Dustin is at the forefront of the largest solar lending platform in the U.S., fostering growth across more than 4,000 contractors and various sustainable home improvement verticals. Since its foundation in 2018, GoodLeap has facilitated funding exceeding $60 billion, reinforcing its commitment to customer-centric solutions. Under Dustin's guidance, GoodLeap remains dedicated to driving innovation and expanding its positive impact within the renewable energy industry.