Ryan Wright, co-owner of OHM Solar Solutions, is renowned for his adeptness in team-building, fostering winning cultures, mentoring top performers, and guiding individuals towards embracing a more fulfilling narrative in life. His journey is nothing short of remarkable. Transitioning from a 21-year tenure as a youth pastor to becoming one of the foremost male trailblazers in the solar industry, Ryan’s trajectory is emblematic of his resilience and adaptability.
Ryan’s roots ran deep in the tight-knit community of Paradise, California, where he had forged meaningful connections over the years. However, the devastating impact of a blazing fire brought unimaginable loss, stripping away everything he held dear in his beloved hometown. This marked one of Ryan’s earliest and most profound struggles as a growing leader.
One of the deadliest and most destructive wildfires in the history of California started in a rural area. In November of 2018, the Camp Fire ravaged Northern California’s Butte County, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. In spite of the catastrophic circumstances, Ryan emerged as a sign of hope and renewal.
Wright found solace in the enduring bonds he shared with the people around him. While physical possessions could be lost and rebuilt, the steadfast relationships he had cultivated remained unshaken. Through the trials and tribulations of displacement and rebuilding, Ryan’s unwavering commitment to his community and his resilient spirit served as guiding beacons, anchoring him amidst the turmoil of loss and uncertainty.
In the aftermath of the disaster, 90% of the youth and their families had left the local town, and were scattered elsewhere. However, amidst the charred landscape, there was a glimmer of hope. With much of the vegetation razed by the fire, there lay an opportunity for renewal and growth.
Ryan’s friend challenged him to make a calculated risk and start a new adventure leading a company in sales. Knowing that there was a great opportunity to serve his community as it rebuilt, Ryan bet on himself and took action. Moving from being a pastor to a sales leader was a big adjustment, but keeping the same frame of mind on impacting people in a positive way, he became successful yet again.
“I grew up not thinking I’d be in sales.”
RYAN’S MISSION: Building youthful staff. Invest in others.
Fast forward to the end of 2022, Ryan embraced a leadership role at OHM Solar Solutions, where over 50 sales representatives find their home. Amidst the backdrop of adversity, Ryan’s leadership shone brightly.
His evolution from shepherd of souls to steward of sustainable energy reflects not only his ability to navigate diverse landscapes but also his unwavering commitment to driving positive change. Through his leadership at OHM Solar Solutions, Ryan continues to empower individuals to embrace a brighter, more sustainable future — one powered by innovation, collaboration, and purpose-driven action. Statistically, a majority of people go to work with people they don’t want to be around. His goal is to make OHM Solar the best place to work for. A culture that is positive, supportive, stable, exciting and motivating.
WRIGHT’S MESSAGE TO YOUNG MEN:
Take extreme ownership for every decision you make.
When you take ownership of your decisions, you feel empowered to take control of your circumstances. Rather than feeling like a victim of circumstances, you recognize your ability to influence outcomes through your actions and decisions. A common response is to blame others when goals aren’t met. When others see that you are willing to take responsibility for your actions, they are more likely to trust you and value your contributions.
2. Be mindful of the money trap.
The highest paying jobs are sales jobs. That can be both a blessing and a curse. Constantly chasing after money can lead to burnout and a decreased quality of life. It’s essential to find a balance between work and other aspects of life, such as relationships, hobbies, and personal well-being. Focusing solely on money can detract from priorities. Clear signs that you’ve fallen for the money trap is lack of contentment, and a willingness to sacrifice integrity for financial gain, which will ultimately lead to overall dissatisfaction. It’s important to align actions with personal values and priorities. Pursuing wealth at the expense of personal values can lead to feelings of emptiness and restlessness, regardless of financial success.
3. Make calculated sacrifices you can live with.
The only people who will ever remember you working overtime will be your family. Will sacrifices need to be made along the way? Of course! Spending time with family is essential for building strong relationships and creating lasting memories. Working overtime consistently can detract from this precious time, leading to strained relationships and missed opportunities. Don’t become the person who looks back at age 70 and sees nothing but missed opportunities with the people in life who should have been a priority. Aside from prioritizing family, commit to bettering yourself in every way, whether that be through exercise, hobbies, or learning new skills that enhance creativity, productivity, and overall satisfaction with life.
4. Lead from the front with integrity.
What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Similarly, what good is it for a man to achieve success at the workplace, yet forfeit his own family?
There are countless businessmen who have tasted success in the workplace, but it cost them their marriage and relationship with their kids. Men, that’s a NET LOSS. Leading from the front means being a living example in all areas of life. Give your best effort at all times, both in the workplace, and at home. This is a legacy you can be proud of. Choose the better story. Show them something you are proud of, it’s the better story. By prioritizing family and being present, you set a positive example for your spouse and children. They learn the importance of connection, communication, and making time for loved ones by observing your actions. Being present with your family allows you to nurture and strengthen your relationships. Quality time spent together fosters bonds of love, trust, and understanding that are essential for a happy and healthy family life.
YOU CAN FIND RYAN HERE:
https://www.facebook.com/ryan.wright.1029770
https://www.instagram.com/ryanwright.official/
WANT TO PUT POWER IN YOUR HANDS? LEARN MORE ABOUT OHM SOLAR:
https://ohmsolarsolutions.com/
I’m a senior leader at The Elliott Group with over 12 years of client service experience and have held a substantial leadership roles in the automotive industry. I’m also an accredited coach, a writer, speaker, and a triathlon finisher. To contact me for engagements you can reach me at [email protected].