The FlaSEIA Rising Star Award recognizes young professionals shaping the future of Florida’s solar and storage industry. Jacob Traverso from Solar Source, a 2024 Rising Star Award winner, is a perfect example of how passion, perseverance, and dedication can drive meaningful change in the industry.

Jacob says, “I have been very lucky to work with a lot of great people who have given me opportunities to grow and who help steer me either through shared wisdom, tough criticism, or just setting an example with their own actions. Most of my best attributes in the professional world are owed to other people and the experiences that I shared with them.”

From Boardshorts to Business Owner

Jacob’s solar journey began the day after graduating high school, when he walked into a Central Florida solar company in boardshorts and flip-flops looking for work. By the next day, he had the job, diving into thermal solar pool heating.

After a brief move to Seattle, his entrepreneurial grandfather encouraged him to return to Florida and re-enter the solar industry. He rejoined the solar industry in 2010, where he saw the industry’s shift from thermal to PV firsthand. In 2013, motivated by his growing family, Jacob earned his solar contractor license and started his own company, gaining experience in Florida, New York, New Jersey, and even the Caribbean.

Pictured: Jacob Traverso & Tampa International Airport, St. Croix Project, Jacob & St. Croix Wiring

Shaping the Future of Solar

Jacob’s work has taken him from small residential installs to large-scale projects, including the 2 MW solar carport at Tampa International Airport with Solar Source. Beyond his technical expertise, Jacob is passionate about helping others succeed. As a coach outside of solar, he brings that same energy to his work today - mentoring young professionals, motivating teams, and ensuring others grow along with the industry. "The most fulfilling part of my job isn't just completing projects - it's helping others grow in their careers and succeed in the industry," says Jacob. 

Pictured: Tampa International Airport 2 MW solar carport project by Solar Source Panoramic 

Advice for Rising Stars

• Master the fundamentals - Don’t rush. Take time to learn the technology, the hands-on work, and how systems operate.
• Be patient and grow with the industry - Solar is evolving rapidly, and opportunities are everywhere for those willing to put in the effort.

Know a Rising Star? Nominate Them Today!

Do you know someone under 40 who is making a major impact in the Florida solar and storage industry? Or are you that person? The FlaSEIA Rising Star Award is your opportunity to highlight the next generation of industry leaders.

Nomination Guidelines:

• Nominee must be between 18 and 39 years old as of May 14, 2025
• Nominee must be from a FlaSEIA member company
• Self-nominations are encouraged!
• Deadline to submit: March 15, 2025

Winners will be recognized at the 2025 Florida Solar & Storage Summit, May 12-14, at the Tampa Convention Center. Submit your nomination today here and learn more about the Summit here!