Justin Nielsen, General Manager and co-founder of Wolf River Electric, was recently featured in an exclusive online interview, sharing his unique journey from a degree in Christian Ministry to leading one of the Midwest’s most innovative renewable energy companies. The interview provides a deep dive into Nielsen’s leadership philosophy, the challenges of the renewable energy industry, and his vision for sustainability and employee empowerment.
Nielsen, a former junior hockey player and Minnesota native, co-founded Wolf River Electric with a mission to make renewable energy accessible and impactful for communities. In the interview, he discusses how his background in Christian Ministry shaped his approach to leadership, emphasizing empathy, active listening, and collaboration. "My leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room—it’s about creating an environment where every voice matters, and solutions are built collaboratively," Nielsen shares.
The feature also highlights Wolf River Electric’s transformation into a 100% employee-owned company, a milestone Nielsen describes as “transformative.” He elaborates on how this model has enhanced accountability, fostered a sense of community, and driven innovation within the company. "When every employee has a stake in the company’s success, it changes the way they approach their work," he explains.
Nielsen provides candid insights into the challenges of managing a renewable energy business, from supply chain disruptions to educating customers about the long-term benefits of solar energy. He emphasizes the importance of transparency and adaptability in overcoming these hurdles. "We’ve created a culture of adaptability, where challenges are seen as opportunities to innovate," Nielsen notes.
Beyond the operational aspects, the interview delves into Nielsen’s commitment to customer relationships, which he places at the heart of Wolf River Electric’s mission. "Our job is to make the process as smooth and transparent as possible," he says, adding that proactive communication and tailored solutions are key to building trust.
Looking ahead, Nielsen discusses his plans for the company’s future, including expanding into new markets and introducing cutting-edge technologies such as advanced battery storage and EV charging infrastructure. He also shares his personal goal of fostering the next generation of leaders within Wolf River Electric, ensuring the company’s culture and values continue to thrive.
For those considering a career in renewable energy, Nielsen offers this advice: "Dive in with curiosity and a willingness to learn. The human element—helping people and making a tangible difference—is what makes this work so fulfilling."
About Justin Nielsen
Justin Nielsen is the General Manager and co-founder of Wolf River Electric, a Minnesota-based renewable energy company specializing in innovative solutions and customer-centric services. With over a decade of experience in the energy sector and a bachelor’s degree in Christian Ministry from Bethel University, Nielsen combines technical expertise with empathetic leadership. Under his guidance, Wolf River Electric has grown into a 100% employee-owned enterprise, empowering customers and employees alike while driving sustainable energy adoption across five states.
To read the full interview, click here.
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Company Name: Wolf River Electric
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City: Isanti
State: MN
Country: United States
Website: https://wolfriverelectric.com/
