True progress in clean energy comes from challenging the status quo. Kelly Mantei, Chief Operating Officer at Delta CleanTech, shares what keeps him motivated amid the complexities of the clean energy transition and the continuous push to innovate beyond what’s already done.

How do you stay motivated and resilient when facing the complex challenges of the clean energy transition?

I stay motivated by focusing on the impact—knowing that the work we do contributes to a more sustainable future helps me stay focused. The challenges are complex, and adoption often takes longer than expected, but that’s part of the reality of meaningful change. I try to stay patient and persistent, and leaning on a strong team and a clear sense of purpose helps me stay resilient when progress feels slow.

When you think about Delta CleanTech’s core values (Figure it Out, Disruption for the Better, Work Hard, Good Vibes, Great Energy), which one resonates most strongly with you, and why?

“Disruption for the better” resonates most with me because it reflects the mindset needed to lead real change in carbon capture and clean energy. I’m excited by the idea of continually challenging the status quo and pushing past what’s already been done to imagine what’s possible. At Delta, that means not just solving problems but rethinking them—bringing forward bold, practical solutions that move the industry forward in meaningful ways.

What is the most important non-technical skill (ex., communication, project management, or adaptability) needed for success in the clean energy sector?

At the end of the day, while technical know-how builds clean energy systems, it’s strong communication and collaboration that actually move things forward. The ability to work well with others, bring people on board, and keep everyone aligned is what turns good ideas into real-world impact. If we can do that, we’ll move clean energy forward.