In this episode of Age of Adoption, host Keith Zakheim welcomes Neal Rickner, CEO of Airloom Energy, about reimagining wind turbine technology. Neal, a former F-18 pilot with the Marines who later worked at Google X on the Makani project, explains how Airloom Energy is developing revolutionary wind turbines that can be mass-manufactured, easily transported, and deployed without specialized equipment—all while significantly reducing costs. Instead of pursuing marginal improvements through larger turbines, Airloom creates adaptable systems that can be installed in locations where traditional wind turbines aren't feasible.

Airloom's innovative approach addresses key industry challenges by using standardized materials and simplified supply chains. Neil highlights partnerships with the Air Force Research Laboratory to develop resilient energy solutions for military installations and discusses how their technology can help reduce fuel dependency for forward operating bases. This episode demonstrates how rethinking fundamental technologies can create competitive advantages while expanding access to renewable energy globally.

Neal Rickner is a technology entrepreneur and investor specializing in energy and aerospace. Before Airloom, Neal served as the CEO of BridgeTek Energy and the Managing Partner of Elevation Ventures. Prior to these roles, Neal spent nearly a decade at Google and Google[x] leading teams and developing energy projects. Before working in tech, Neal served 12 years on active duty in the US Marine Corps as an F/A-18 pilot and forward air controller. He completed three tours in Iraq between 2003 and 2007, earning the Bronze Star and (13) Air Medals. He transitioned from active duty in 2009, earning dual master's degrees (business and international affairs) from Columbia University. Neal is a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations and a Tillman Scholar. He serves on the Advisory boards of Vets in Tech and the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP).

In This Episode:

(00:00) Introduction - Neal Rickner's clean energy career journey

(07:38) Neal's age of adoption story: reimagining wind turbines, revolutionizing wind energy deployment

(14:17) Military applications, Defense Department innovation for fighter jets and partnerships with Airloom Energy

(19:44) Conclusion and closing thoughts

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About the show: 

The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.

Resources:
Neal Rickner LinkedIn
Airloom Energy
Antenna Group
Age of Adoption Website
Keith Zakheim LinkedIn