Power Players Spotlight: Meet Chuck McCallumWhat is your approach to helping clients meet their renewable energy goals?
“I want to ask the questions and provide the support that our clients need. In the energy environment, there are many areas where we can help—we need to understand our clients’ obstacles and goals. Once we do, we can find a solution. Our team has been able to help our clients with their electrical, civil, structural, and permitting goals.
My long-term experience in hydrology and grading has been a big benefit to the team, as well as to our clients, by helping them successfully navigate difficult sites and make long-term, successful investments.”
What is your favorite source of renewable energy and why?
“I particularly enjoy the larger utility-scale projects because of the hydrology and grading involved. I also enjoy new niche technology focused on utilizing hydrogen systems and microgrids to create solutions for our clients.”
What project is your favorite and why? (Please mention if it’s under NDA.)
“I’m enjoying two projects in South Carolina—the complexities of hydrology and grading are intriguing. Helping the development client provide something to an EPC that will bring immediate value brings me joy.”
I also enjoyed working with our team and EPCs on projects in New Mexico and California, specifically helping with the permitting of those projects.”
What’s your favorite solution to a challenge you’ve faced?
“How you grade a site and design the long-term storage basins around it is critical—both for the EPC and the developer. On one project, we saved the client significant money by reducing the size of the basins. On another project, we increased the size of the drainage basins and saved future heartache by ensuring the site would last.”
Why are you passionate about renewable energy?
“I’m passionate about energy! That’s why I took a position as Chairman of the Energy Committee for ACEC California. I enjoy working with my fellow engineering companies to come up with solutions for our country and move toward building a cleaner, greener future.”
Outside of KWRE, what are your favorite hobbies?
“I have a few standout hobbies—you can find me camping and hiking, scuba diving, playing pickleball, or golfing with my friends. I love spending time with my wife, kids, and grandkids.”
What are you currently reading?
“Atomic Habits, Blind Spots, and The Power of a Positive Team are three books I’ve been enjoying.”
What’s been your favorite moment at KWRE?
“Working with my team to solve problems and mentoring the young engineers on our team. Those moments have really stuck with me.”