Indigo Spotlight on Lead Solar Engineer, Robin Ye Linn Htun
Before he departs for a new chapter of his life in Singapore, we want to spotlight and honor Robin Ye Linn Htun for his contributions to Indigo Energy over the last 8+ years. He has provided technical leadership at Indigo Energy as a Lead Solar Engineer at Indigo Energy, but he actually started his Indigo Energy journey as an intern when he was in high school. He has contributed his knowledge, skills, growth and commitment throughout Indigo Energy’s different phases. He is detail-oriented and always comes across with data-driven engineering solutions. Many of the project engineer associates have inherited solid engineering skills through his effective training.
While we will miss Robin as he leaves us, he will always be a part of the Indigo Energy family. We wish him to have a fascinating and rewarding journey wherever he ends up.
Employee Spotlight: Robin Ye Linn Htun
Position: Lead Solar Engineer
Three words to best describe you: Analytical, cautious, goofy
Motto or personal mantra: The one who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones, but the one who moves mountains must also begin by researching dynamite.
The book that changed the way you think, how?: “Biographies of Ultra-Compassionate People” by Pe Myint. It provided me with a compelling alternative definition of success.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?: Same as 5 years ago - failing, learning and trying to build a carbon-free society the best way I know how.
True leadership means to you: Being broad-minded, practicing kindness and knowing who to place where are the three qualities that I think differentiate leaders from tyrants or taskmasters (or just plain ineffectual leaders). But I would argue that foresight is what separates great leaders from the rest.
The funniest or smartest person in the room? Why?: I don’t think either of them should be deliberately aimed for so I’d prefer to leave it to fate. But if I must flip a coin, I’d be slightly hoping for it to land on the side of me being funny.
Can’t live without: Wikipedia. And headphones. And tea. I wouldn’t mind a cozy sofa either…
Three words to describe Indigo Energy: Perfection through iteration.
The most unique part about working at Indigo Energy: The people. There may be other organizations as dedicated as us, but there won’t be a team quite like Indigo’s.
Favorite part of being a member of Indigo Energy: Getting to implement renewable energy projects while navigating the political and socio-economic landscape of Myanmar. Some clients don’t believe in solar energy so you have to figure out how to convince them. Many clients cannot afford expensive solutions, so you have to rack your brains trying to re-engineer designs. The very act of transporting men and materials to some sites involves crossing several local authorities that act like fiefdoms. So there’s never a dull day!
Definition of your success at Indigo Energy: The capabilities of the tech team. The more kinds of projects and analysis that the team can handle, the more successful I consider myself.
The most challenging experience at Indigo Energy: Ha! I can talk about this one for hours, but I’ll try to be brief here. There was this project that we pulled the trigger on just before Covid lockdowns started. It was already going to be technically intricate, having to synchronize solar output with 6 different diesel generators. However, the international logistics storm collided with Escherian local lockdowns in Myanmar, culminating in an exchange of money and electrical parts in the middle of a bridge. We absolutely nailed that project, and I’ve been trying to chase that high ever since.
How has Indigo Energy helped you in your career development?: It basically launched my career in renewable energy. I was still a high school student when I started an internship here, and what I learned about solar and rural electrification was enough to convince me to explore more of this field. My current work is quite dynamic so it is possible to accumulate valuable experience in a wide domain within a relatively short period of time. I will always be grateful for my time here.
