Veterans and Renewable Energy

Thank you to all US veterans for your unwavering dedication, bravery, and sacrifice. Your service safeguarded our freedoms and upheld the values we hold dear. Your commitment to our nation is deeply appreciated and will never be forgotten. 

​At Valor Infrastructure Partners, we are committed to offering veterans opportunities in the rapidly expanding renewable energy sector. We honor their service and leverage their unique skills, leadership abilities, and adaptability to drive innovation and operational excellence in our industry.​ Supporting veterans and working in renewable energy are crucial pillars for a sustainable and resilient future.

Our Veterans

“Veterans are essential for renewable energy because they bring unique skills, experiences, and dedication that align well with the industry’s needs. Their involvement helps fill crucial workforce gaps and contributes to the overall growth and success of the renewable energy sector.

By becoming a member of the Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC), I joined thousands of other veterans, farmers, businesses, nonprofits, and allies committed to supporting veterans in agriculture.” – Michael Blevins, Director of Prospecting

Veteran Team

Captain Mike Weich — CEO & Co-Founder

Mike Weich is a Co-Founder and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for VIP. Prior to VIP Mike served as Vice President of M&A and Development at Omega Energia, Director of Renewable Development at NextEra Energy Resources, and Assistant Vice President at Bank of America. Additionally, Mike served as an Infantry officer in the United States Army and deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom to Afghanistan in 2013.

Mike graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and holds an MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University. Mike also completed Executive Education in Leadership and Negotiations at Harvard University.

Mike and his family live in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The Weich’s love the outdoors and spend their weekends enjoying the numerous activities that make South Florida a great home.

Major Daryl Hart — COO & Co-Founder

Daryl Hart is a Co-Founder and the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for VIP. Prior to VIP, Daryl served as Vice President of Utility Scale Development at Borrego Solar, Director of Renewable Development at NextEra Energy Resources, and Director of Development at NextEra Energy Transmission. Prior to entering the private sector, Daryl served as an Intelligence officer in the United States Air Force from 1997-2007.

Daryl graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute with a BS in Electrical Engineering and holds an MBA from Auburn University (Montgomery) and a Master of Finance from Penn State University. Daryl also completed Executive Education in Leadership and Negotiations at Harvard University.

Daryl and his wife Kathy live in Jupiter, Florida and they enjoy spending time with their grown daughters. When not visiting family, Daryl enjoys hiking, cycling, and attending Miami Dolphins football games.

Corporal Michael Blevins — Director of Prospecting

Michael Blevins is the Director of Prospecting, bringing 28 years of GIS expertise to the role. With 18 years in state and local government and over a decade in renewable energy, he combines practical experience with advanced education. Michael holds a Bachelor’s in Urban Design from Florida Atlantic University and a Master’s in Sustainable Renewable Energy. He is currently pursuing an EdD in Learning and Organizational Change at Baylor University.

Certified in Climate Mitigation and Adaptation from the University of South Florida, Michael leverages GIS and drone technology to enhance agricultural practices and environmental monitoring. A United States Marine Corps veteran, he actively participates in the Veterans Farmers Coalition, American Legion, and Marine Corps League.

When not advancing his professional pursuits, Michael enjoys mountain biking, road cycling, and Harley rides with his fiancé. He’s an avid traveler and a soon-to-be grandfather.

Captain Anthony Rotar — Project Manager

Anthony Rotar is a Project Development Manager at Valor Infrastructure Partners (VIP). Prior to joining VIP, Anthony had a distinguished 13-year career in the United States Army, where he served primarily in various roles with the elite 75th Ranger Regiment based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state.

Anthony holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington, and a Master of Public Policy (MPP) from the University of Massachusetts. His educational background, combined with his military experience, has equipped him with valuable skills in leadership, strategic planning, and project management.

Currently residing in Cleveland, Ohio with his wife Christine, Anthony maintains an active lifestyle outside of work. The couple enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, paddling, and cycling. They also frequently travel to the western United States, taking advantage of opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty.

Captain Aaqib Syed — Project Manager

Aaqib Syed is a dedicated Project Developer for Valor Infrastructure Partners (VIP), overseeing the Western and ERCOT regions. He joined the team in October 2023 after serving five years as an Infantry Officer in the US Army, where he developed strong leadership and problem-solving skills.

Aaqib graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in English Literature. This unique background allows him to approach projects with both analytical and creative perspectives.

Living in Colorado Springs, CO, Aaqib is passionate about distance running and trains year-round. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor activities such as rafting, fishing, and skiing, making the most of the beautiful Colorado landscape.