Sam Schneider is co-founder and CEO of Earthlight Technologies, a solar, electrical and energy services company. He leads company strategy, organizational growth and long-term business planning.
Since co-founding the company in 2008, he has helped grow Earthlight into a diversified energy business with more than 165 employees. His leadership has guided the company’s expansion across multiple sectors while maintaining a strong focus on operational quality, customer education and long-term sustainability.
What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career?
My biggest professional accomplishment has been helping grow Earthlight from a family-founded solar company into a 160-plus employee organization serving homeowners, businesses and communities across multiple states. Through the ups and downs of the solar industry, I am proud that we have stayed strong, focused, diversified and committed to quality, service and long-term impact.
How are you involved in the community?
My community has always been an important part of my life and leadership. I stay involved through my faith community, YPO groups and local charitable organizations like Midwest Food Bank. I believe businesses have a responsibility to show up, support where they can, and be good neighbors in the communities they serve.
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What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Leah, and our children, Jack, Hazel and Jett. I also enjoy fishing, golfing, being outdoors and staying active in my community.
Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty?
Co-founded Earthlight Technologies in 2008 and helped grow it from a small lighting upgrade company into a diversified energy business with more than 165 employees.
Built a values-driven company culture centered on stewardship, accountability, quality and doing the right thing.
Extended my leadership beyond the company through community involvement, including support for Midwest Food Bank, the Cornerstone Foundation and service on the board of directors for the Connecticut Sustainable Business Council.
Fun Fact
I spent eight years living in Oregon, building strong connections throughout the community, which ultimately helped lead to our office there.
