About the Team
Bruce Erickson has been interested in solar since before it was called “renewable energy.” As a junior high student in the late ‘60’s, he had the opportunity to take one of the first environmental education classes ever taught. This helped foster an early desire to become a “back-to-the-lander,” which led him in Mendocino County in 1976. While working as a carpenter and general contractor, his career for many years, he kept an eye out for the slowly developing field of “alternative energy”, as it grew into “renewable energy.” Eventually, he had the chance to work for Mendocino Solar Service, owned at that time by his friend and MSS founder Rob Harlan. When Rob was ready to sell MSS, Bruce and his wife, Maggie, jumped at the chance to be in the solar business. This year (2024) MSS is celebrating its 30th year in business, with 19 years in the hands of Bruce and Maggie.
Today Bruce spends too much time in front of a computer, but relishes chances to get out and help hoist solar panels up to rooftops, backfill trenches, or do electrical work. After 48 years in the community, Bruce thinks it’s funny to be called “the Solar Guy”. If he has any time off, he can be found working on his house and land, and just maybe, indulging in some of his favorite hobbies: sea kayaking, bike riding, camping around California, and attending music festivals.
Jason Lord has been working for Mendocino Solar Service since June 2018. It is his great pleasure to be the site surveyor, system designer and salesperson for MSS. Jason has nearly nine years of experience in the solar industry. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Post-graduate Diploma in Environmental Management, after serving four years active duty in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic. Jason believes that solar energy is the future for our society and this planet, accepting the needs of people to be connected and empowered, and offering a solution that is less impactful on the environment in the long run. Blending technology with the philosophy of being Earth's caretakers, he feels he is a part of a green revolution that will leave a better future for those that come after him. When he’s not working, Jason enjoys mountain biking and ultimate frisbee, so preserving our air and our climate is of the utmost importance to him.
John Huxsol has been the “voice” of Mendocino Solar Service since 2012. As the office manager, John is the one you hear on the other end of the phone. He has associate degrees in economics, business administration, and accounting from Mendocino College. He is a long-time customer service professional, as well as professional musician and performer. Prior to working with MSS, you could find John at the Mendocino County Planning and Building Department. He feels great about working at a company that is creating a positive environmental impact, by harnessing the sun’s energy. John, and his wife Catherine, are radio programmers on KNYO in Fort Bragg. They also enjoy gardening, creating music together, and exploring the beautiful Mendocino coast.
Shaly Borgen has been with Mendocino Solar Service since 2022, where she fights tirelessly against entropy to keep the office organized, maintains our social media sites, and acts as an unofficial IT person. With an eclectic educational and professional background, ranging from pre-med to a decade-long career as a circus performer, Shaly is a creative problem solver with a varied skill set. She pursued undergraduate education at New York University, UC Berkeley, and California Institute of Integral Studies, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in 2012. These days Shaly is (mostly) retired from the circus and enjoys living on the beautiful Mendocino Coast with her toddler, his father, and their dog. She loves working for a small, local company in an industry she believes is making a positive impact on our world.
Kyle Smith has been working with solar energy systems for over ten years. As an installer with hands on experience of on and off grid systems he has learned to evolve with the technology to bring the most benefit to customers as possible. As an off-grid property manager he has learned to see the process of solar installation and maintenance from both the customer and installer’s perspective. Kyle approaches his roles in the solar industry with confidence, compassion, and care. Not just a technical tradesman, Kyle has a passion for learning and creating which delights in music, science, and culture. He believes it is a great luxury to be able to treat others with respect and kindness. He does his best to share this gift in his professional conduct. Kyle also loves dogs.