On May 11th, 2011 Scott Brusaw contributed the following questions in an interview with QuestionsForLiving®. This interview focuses on Solar Roadways, and the concept of creating roads capable of generating electricity from the power of the sun.
QuestionsForLiving: What were the primary questions that you were asking yourself that led you to the idea of a Solar Roadways?
Brusaw: The initial question was, "What can we do to eliminate the greenhouse gases that are causing Global Warming?" We learned that about 50% of greenhouse gases come from burning coal to make electricity and another 25% comes from our exhaust pipes. Eliminating the need for coal and making EVs practical (eliminating the need for internal combustion engines) could solve 75% of the problem.
QFL: Are there certain fundamental / core questions that you have asked yourself over the course of your life that contributed to your interest in engineering and pursuit of creating Solar Roadway?
Brusaw: I've always been extremely interested in how everything works - I'm sure that's why I became an engineer. I've dreamed of electric roads since I was a kid. I thought that, if roads were electric like my slot car track, kids could drive and relieve our parents of that awesome responsibility!
QFL: What questions would you advise others ask themselves to best harness their abilities to innovate, and create new solutions or technologies?
Brusaw: What is your gift? Not necessarily your skill sets, but what is your core gift? I long thought that my gift was all things electric (I'm a EE), but that doesn't really go deep enough. My real gift is understanding how things work: it doesn't really matter if it's electrical or mechanical. Understanding what your true gift is can allow you to go a long way in innovation.
QFL: What are some primary questions would you advise others to ask themselves that if asked regularly would contribute to making the world a happier and healthier place?
Brusaw: At what point does the "bottom-line" justify wrecking our planet or taking people's livelihoods away?
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Scott is an electrical engineer (MSEE) with over 20 years of industry experience. This includes serving as the Director of Research and Development at a manufacturing facility in Ohio (developing their line of products for over 12 years), a voting member of NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association), and developing several networked control systems from the ground up. Scott has multiple patents and his hardware and software have been sold internationally. Scott is also an ex-Marine Corps sergeant, a former Cub Scout Cubmaster, a former Boy Scout Scoutmaster, Chairman of the Board of Directors of his church, has been active in home schooling, 4-H, children's sports coaching, and teaching Sunday School. His interests include religious studies, the Civil War, NFL football, spending time in the woods, and playing on his John Deere tractor. (Photo of Scott is courtesy of Staci Bailey @ Staci Bailey Photography.)