Heather R. Nelson

In 2012, I joined forces with Josh Davenport to establish Seal Solar as part of an energy-efficiency initiative through the Clinton Foundation. By 2015, we had completed two acquisitions and began investing research and development into solar. The growth of our solar division quickly skyrocketed. In 2018, we formed a teaming agreement with LightWave Solar out of Nashville, Tennessee, to take on larger-scale projects here in Arkansas, deliver award-winning expertise and continue to grow long-term Arkansas jobs in the expanding renewable energy industry.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion

Everyone around me growing up was an entrepreneur, including my grandparents and father. My family was also full of storytellers. Solar came alive for me once I discovered how to blend the two to educate others about the benefits of the technology.

Biggest challenges in my career

Entrepreneurship will reveal your greatest strengths and your most devastating weaknesses. That said, co-birthing a company that is also helping to birth an industry here in Arkansas has been the challenge, and gift, of my life.

Best advice I ever received

Cultivate mentors and be one to others. My life has been immeasurably impacted by these advisors, and it is because of them that I work hard to give back and support others on their journeys.

I wish someone told me at the start of my career

Hire a counselor or executive coach. Opportunities in leadership came early for me and there are plenty of wince-worthy stories on the highlight reel. Learning and understanding my own triggers taught me how to operate with grace and understanding.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Get outside. If there is anything I have learned, it is that I need Jesus and the beauty of nature on the daily. Hiking has saved my life, if not my sanity, in this season.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Little Rock/Fayetteville

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion

Biggest challenges in my career

Best advice I ever received

I wish someone told me at the start of my career

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Little Rock/Fayetteville

First Thing I Do at the Office

Check my calendar

Hobbies

Writing and photography

Binge Watch

"The West Wing"

Last Good Read

"Catherine the Great" by Robert K. Massie

Favorite Meal in Town

Cafe Bossa Nova's panquecas de frango

Best Recent Local Discovery

Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden in Riverfront Park

Latest Splurge

Tesla Model 3

Most-Used App

AllTrails Pro

Dream Vacation

Trans-Siberian Rail Expedition with National Geographic Expeditions

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