Ryan Witt, 25
Energy Solutions Specialist
NorthEast Electrical
Upon graduating from Bryant University in 2019, Ryan joined NorthEast in the Sonepar Operations and Development program. “This was a rotational program that allowed me to learn all aspects of the business—warehouse operations, counter sales, inside and outside sales, and project management,” he explained. “From there, I joined the Energy Solutions team as a lighting specialist and was promoted to my current role as an energy solutions specialist in 2021.”
Ryan’s father is an electrician, “so I was doing electrical jobs with him since I was a kid,” he said. “I’ve been around the industry my entire life. What appealed to me as a new hire was the rotational program that NorthEast/Sonepar offered. It allowed me to learn the whole business and industry as opposed to being thrown right in.”
Asked what continues to appeal to him about the industry, Ryan explained: “I enjoy how my role is different every day and I can experience technology changes in the industry firsthand. Whether that be lighting control advancements, LED advancements, adoption of EV charging stations, etc.”
Ryan identified the adoption of digital technology as one of the challenges facing the industry today. “The digital world is here to make our customers’ experiences easier and faster than traditional pen and paper ordering,” he said. “I am constantly pushing the use of digital ordering and the added benefits and power this gives our customers. Our digital platforms allow our customers, no matter their size, to be faster, more organized, and more competitive in their day-to-day operations.”
Looking ahead, Ryan would like to have an influence in planning and strategy within NorthEast. “I am involved in Sonepar Leadership trainings, have responsibility for lighting stock portfolio, and assist in energy business strategies—and I am constantly looking for more responsibility and involvement within the organization,” he said.
To someone just entering in the industry, Ryan offers this advice: “Be a sponge and soak in as much information as possible. There are many veterans in this industry who are great mentors and people to learn from. I would also say networking is everything and creating relationships with people outside of your own organization is so valuable.”
Outside of work, Ryan enjoys staying active by working out and playing pick-up sports with friends. “I also enjoy traveling, attending sporting events, and going to the beach,” he added. “I just recently traveled to the Bahamas, which was gorgeous.”
Each year tED magazine recognizes 30 of the industry’s best and brightest under the age of 35. Please visit tedmag.com/30Under35 for nomination information and updates about the 2023 program. Questions can be sent to tED Editor Misty Byers at mbyers@naed.org.
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