According to Moss & Associates, new vice president of solar in Hawai‘i Bob Conshue’s arrival couldn’t have come at a better time. With experience in utility-scale solar, community solar, wind and battery storage projects worldwide, he offers more than 35 years of experience in the industry.
After focusing on vertical building, general contracting and electrical work, Conshue transitioned to renewable energy, working on projects in locations that include the U.S., South and Central America and Asia.
Conshue has also served on the American Subcontractors Association National Board of Directors, as president of the ASA’s Arizona chapter and is a former member of IBEW Local 581.
QUESTION: Can you please describe your current role at Moss?
ANSWER: I’m the vice president of solar for Hawai‘i. I oversee all aspects of the solar business, from pre-construction to operations and project closeout. I’m responsible for [our] Hawai‘i solar strategy, growth and development.
Q: What initially drew you to a career in construction?
A: My family had two businesses, a small general contracting business and a restaurant, [so] I grew up working construction during the day and the restaurant kitchen at night.
I was accepted to a few schools for engineering and construction management as well as the Culinary Institute of America, [but] I decided I loved cooking too much to make it a full-time job.
Q: What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?
A: Managing change and maintaining transparent communication. The people aspect of my job presents a unique set of challenges. I try to be a mentor to everyone and available to everyone. I often joke I would be better at my job if I went to school for psychology in lieu of engineering.
Q: What is a typical day at work like for you?
A: Morning meetings, project management, client meetings, strategic planning, team management, network and business development and problem-solving.
Q: Which project has had the biggest impact on your career so far?
A: Six different times in my career I’ve had the honor to be involved with the biggest, the first or the most technologically challenging built at that time, including Mesquite Solar, Solar Star, Mililani Solar, Panda Solar (China), MAGIC [and] Daggett Solar.
Q: Who are your role models?
A: My professional role model/mentor was a man named Carl Dumont. [Carl] taught me a true leader helps people be the best versions of themselves [and] that you cannot mentor or lead any two people the same way. You can lead them to a common goal, but everyone has a different path to get there. It’s up to the leader to find the best path for each employee and lead them there.
Q: Do you have any advice to those starting out in construction?
A: For those starting out on a journey in the construction industry, several fundamental principles can guide your path toward success.
First, prioritize gaining practical experience by immersing yourself in real-world construction environments. Hands-on experience is invaluable in understanding the intricacies of the field and developing essential skills. Moreover, never compromise
on safety.
Additionally, commit to continuous learning to keep pace with the dynamic nature of the industry. Stay updated on emerging technologies, evolving techniques and changing regulations through training programs, certifications and professional development.
Effective communication is another cornerstone of success in construction. Hone your communication skills to convey information clearly and cultivate positive relationships with colleagues, clients and stakeholders.
Additionally, foster a strong work ethic characterized by reliability, diligence and a willingness to go above and beyond expectations. Embrace versatility by embracing different roles and responsibilities. Seek mentorship from seasoned professionals to gain insights, guidance and support as you navigate your career path.
Finally, invest in networking and relationship-building within the industry to unlock opportunities for growth, collaboration and advancement.
Q: What is your favorite plate lunch, and where is it from?
A: My favorite plate lunch is from K&K Bar-B-Que Inn in Kailua. I get a combo plate with half barbecue chicken and half chicken katsu, with their delicious katsu sauce on the side.
The barbecue chicken is so tender and juicy, with this amazing sweet and smoky flavor and the chicken katsu is perfectly crispy on the outside.
