Author: Verde Solutions, LLC

The energy industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation—driven by new technologies, sustainability goals, and a growing demand for smarter solutions. At the forefront of this evolution are the talented women of Altimus Capital’s family of companies, including Navigate Power, Verde Solutions, RxSun, and Fresh Coast Solar. This Women in Energy series celebrates their expertise, achievements, and the meaningful impact they’re making across the sector. From sales, finance, and operations to engineering and client solutions, these professionals bring unique perspectives and a shared commitment to shaping the future of energy.

Q&A with Grace Rasmussen, Renewable Energy Engineer, Verde Solutions

What unique perspective do you bring to your role?

I started my career as a Piping Engineer. The piping industry is well-documented and driven by strict processes. Being able to bring that process documentation experience to Verde has proven useful as we grow and develop processes to set us up for success.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the energy sector? 

I have always been interested in a career in renewable energy because I wanted to contribute to a cleaner future.

What drew you to Altimus Capital and its family of companies (RxSun, Verde Solutions, Navigate Power, Fresh Coast Solar)?

All of the companies feel like one cohesive organization. I was drawn to the dynamic environment. Being a part of a smaller company allows me to have opportunities to develop a variety of skill sets.

What excites you most about your job and/or working in the energy industry right now?

It has been exciting to be a part of a fast-growing company.

What advice would you give to other women looking to enter or grow in this field?

The solar industry is relatively small but growing, and you will continue to see the same network during your career. Don’t hesitate to make and maintain those connections.

How do you see your work contributing to customer’s broader goals of clean energy & sustainability?

We are helping our customers hedge against rising electric costs, take advantage of the numerous incentives available, and produce clean energy for their facility. It is inspiring to work with local businesses, organizations, and municipalities to make a sustainable impact on their communities.

What qualities do you think make someone successful in a fast-evolving industry like renewable energy?

It is important to embrace change while following established standards. Industry-wide, solar is driven by policy, so it’s important to stay up to date on the latest local and federal legislation.

The energy industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation—driven by new technologies, sustainability goals, and a growing demand for smarter solutions. At the forefront of this evolution are the talented women of Altimus Capital’s family of companies, including Navigate Power, Verde Solutions, RxSun, and Fresh Coast Solar. This Women in Energy series celebrates their expertise, achievements, and the meaningful impact they’re making across the sector. From sales, finance, and operations to engineering and client solutions, these professionals bring unique perspectives and a shared commitment to shaping the future of energy.

Q&A with Kim Gryzlo, President, Altimus Capital

Tell us about your path to your current role.

As President of Altimus Capital, the parent company of several leading energy companies, I oversee Legal, Finance, HR & Operations for various Altimus entities. Over the last 30+ years, I have worked for Fortune 100 companies, small to mid-size businesses, and private-equity owned portfolio companies in various leadership roles within Finance and Operations. This experience has provided me with a solid foundation contributing to my success at Altimus Capital.

What unique perspective do you bring to your role?

With 30+ years of experience in leadership roles including Finance and Operations, I bring a wealth of knowledge and deep understanding of financial acumen, business process and strategy. I understand the impact of streamlining processes, reducing costs, and implementing systems that promote operational efficiency contributing to profitable and sustainable growth.

What drew you to Altimus Capital and its family of companies?

I joined Altimus Capital because I envisioned a role where I could make a difference utilizing my knowledge and experience to set structure, implement best practices, establish process, and create a foundation for growth and long-term success. In addition, l was attracted to the opportunity to work amongst leaders with similar goals, values and ethics in a culture where transparency and giving back to the community is valued.

What excites you most about your job and/or working in the energy industry right now?

I am most excited about the growth, challenges, and ability to continuously learn while working in one of the largest growing sectors. I take much pride in the fact that our companies make a positive impact to the environment through the development and construction of renewable energy projects.

The people are what I enjoy most about my job. I work alongside individuals who are equally driven to succeed, take pride in their work, value ongoing improvement, and want to make a difference. This is one of the most supportive, collaborative teams I have experienced in my career and it stems from individuals who have strong values, mutual respect, and genuine concern for others. Super grateful for this team!

What advice would you give to other women looking to enter or grow in this field?

Women can be successful in any field they choose. It’s about being confident in themselves, their skills and applying their knowledge to a new industry. It’s important to stay informed about the market and the challenges that impact the renewable energy field. This is a fast-evolving industry with much to learn, but it also presents an amazing opportunity for significant professional growth. I am still learning and growing every day.

How do you see your work contributing to the broader goals of clean energy and sustainability?

Overseeing operations for the development of renewable energy projects positively contributes to the impact on clean energy, sustainability, and the environment. The more projects we build, the bigger the impact. Our goal is to design and build high quality projects for clients, on time, while delivering on all of our commitments. We have built systems, processes and best practices within our operations to efficiently manage projects and are continuously improving upon them. This has provided us with a solid foundation for growth and resulted in a strong reputation with clients and in the industry.

What qualities do you think make someone successful in a fast-evolving industry like renewable energy?

Individuals that are successful in this fast-evolving industry must be strategic thinkers, anticipate trends and aware of the constant shifts in this dynamic market. They possess traits such as adaptability, resilience, strong communication, and a passion for learning and continuous improvement. They are leaders who empower people while challenging the status quo.

What’s one project or accomplishment you’re especially proud of, and why?

I am most proud of cultivating a strong, positive, organizational culture for our employees. It’s important to create an environment where employees enjoy what they do, are passionate and engaged, confident in knowing they are making a difference and feel valued. Leading by example, fostering open communication, focusing on employee development, encouraging collaboration, and recognizing success creates a culture with no limits. There is no better investment than in people – they are the future leaders of our organization!