Ashley Smith is taking solar energy to new heights – literally. As SAMCo’s Travelling Site Lead and a skilled drone pilot, Ashley uses drone technology to spot hidden issues and ensure peak performance across solar sites. Here’s how he’s merging high-tech innovation with hands-on expertise to drive a greener future.

Ashley brings a unique skill set to his role as the Stanwell Asset Maintenance Company’s (SAMCo’s) Lead Travelling Technician, with extensive training and qualifications that make him a key player in managing and maintaining SAMCo’s solar sites. 

"I’ve trained extensively in SMA, Power Electronics, Gamesa, and Ingeteam solar technologies," he shares. "I’ve also honed my high voltage switching skills on solar sites. And on top of that, I’m a certified drone pilot with an RPL for drone flights, which I use to perform thermal imaging."

Yes, you read that right – as a skilled drone pilot, Ashley leverages drone technology to enhance solar farm management. 

"By flying drones, we capture thermographic images of the panels to help identify hotspots and detect damages," he explains. “These images reveal temperature variations on the panels, which can indicate issues like faulty connections or areas of wear and tear.” 

With this cutting-edge approach, Ashley and his team can catch problems early, preventing further damage and ensuring the solar farm runs at peak performance.

"Doing this annually also helps us build a database for future replacements and track the deterioration of PV modules,” he adds. “It’s all about identifying patterns and areas of concern before they become major issues."

Rising sun 

Ashley is an electrician by trade, but his career path to this point has been anything but conventional.

"My work background is very eclectic,” he reflects. “Growing up in Cloncurry, a small town in in north-west Queensland, I’ve had the chance to work in a wide range of industries – from hospitality and mining to education and local and state governments."

Ashley credits his diverse experience to the supportive nature of small communities.

“The great thing about small towns is that people are always willing to give you a chance,” he says. 

This supportive environment encouraged Ashley to take a leap and pursue an electrical fitter mechanic apprenticeship as an adult – a decision he describes as “absolutely the best decision I ever made.”

Ashley has spent the past five years in the solar industry, starting out with the construction of the Hamilton and Whitsundays solar farms near Collinsville in North Queensland.

“I moved around to some other solar farm projects after that, and was eventually asked to help with Operations and Maintenance (O&M) at the Hamilton and Whitsundays solar farms,” he says. 

“Since then, I’ve been fortunate to work with some great O&M providers who have given me the knowledge and experience to get to where I am today.”

Leading the way

As the Travelling Site Lead, Ashley's role is critical to the success of SAMCo's solar operations. 

"Currently, we’re working on  Collinsville farm, taking care of a few minor repairs and starting the annual maintenance," he says. "As a travelling tech, I assist the site leads in keeping our maintenance plans on track.” 

While no two days are ever quite the same on a solar farm, Ashley says his typical schedule involves a mix of routine inspections and unexpected repairs, including site security checks, PV module spot checks, weather station checks and cleans, string fuse checks, inverter fault finding, and more.

"One of the biggest challenges is ensuring complacency doesn’t sneak in," he says. "When workers get too comfortable with day-to-day tasks, that’s when incidents can occur. Our work in maintenance and operations might seem repetitive sometimes, but it's incredibly rewarding when the farm exceeds its availability targets at the end of the week."

A bright future

For Ashley, one of the most fulfilling parts of his role is the opportunity to mentor the next generation of solar technicians. 

"Helping the team of travelling techs learn the ropes of renewables is very rewarding," he says. "Plus, getting to work outdoors is definitely one of the biggest perks of the job."

Ashley is passionate about building a strong, cohesive team. "We’ve got a great group of people coming together within SAMCo,” he shares. “I hope to share my knowledge and experience, learn from my teammates with experience in Stanwell’s systems, and perform well together.”

He also sees his role as a chance to guide less experienced technicians through technical challenges and breakdowns, fostering their growth and confidence on the job.

While Ashley was initially attracted to SAMCo for the company’s vision and values, he says it’s the commitment to teamwork and innovation that keeps him motivated.

"As time has progressed, it's really been the collaborative environment that has impressed me the most,” he reflects. “Everyone has a voice and is respected. I’m proud to be part of a team that’s not just preparing the workforce for the future of renewables in Australia, but also setting a high standard in the solar industry with the training we provide.”

Ultimately, Ashley is enthusiastic about the future projects and initiatives on the horizon at SAMCo. 

"It’s a great time to be part of the team,” he says. “As a country boy, I’m particularly excited about the projects linked to the CopperString initiative, which will play a huge role in boosting regional Queensland’s economy and workforce.”

Looking ahead, Ashley has some advice for anyone considering a career in renewable energy:

"The renewables sector is incredibly dynamic right now – from wind and solar to hydro, batteries and the emerging hydrogen field. If you love the outdoors and enjoy traveling, it’s definitely a path worth exploring.”