Russell Schmit

Russell Schmit has an extensive work experience in the solar power industry. Russell started their career at Photowatt International, where they served as the Managing Director and successfully drove significant revenue growth and profitability. Russell then founded Advent Solar, a company that commercialized a new solar cell technology. Advent Solar was later acquired by Applied Materials.

After that, Schmit founded CleanSwitch, Inc., where they served as the Founder, President, and CEO. Russell later joined Banyan Energy, a venture-backed start-up, as the President and CEO. Russell led the development and market introduction of new products at Banyan Energy.

Schmit then worked as the Managing Principal at Stinson Energy Group before becoming the President and CEO of Schletter Inc. In this role, they led the restructuring and sale of the North American business unit of a global metal manufacturing company serving the solar power industry.

Following their time at Schletter Inc., Schmit served as the COO of Sage Energy Consulting, where they led the growth of the company and facilitated its sale to NV5. Russell then worked as the Interim CEO of kW Engineering, where they led operational improvements and growth strategy.

Currently, Schmit is the Head of North American Manufacturing Strategy at Canadian Solar Inc. In this role, they are responsible for leading strategic manufacturing initiatives in the United States.

Throughout their career, Schmit has demonstrated expertise in clean energy projects, solar technology, and energy efficiency. Russell has successfully led companies and contributed to the growth and development of the solar power industry.

Russell Schmit pursued their education in Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering graduate work at Arizona State University. Russell obtained a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from this institution. In addition to their degree, they hold certifications as a Certified Energy Manager from the Association of Energy Engineers and as a Registered Professional Engineer from the Arizona Board of Technical Registration. However, specific details regarding the year of obtaining these certifications are not provided.