Navigating the Energy Transition with Dr. William Chueh

02/04/25 • 36 min

In this illuminating conversation with Dr. William Chueh, we explore the complex intersection of energy demands, AI technology, and sustainable solutions. From his early inspiration at Caltech to his current role in shaping future leaders in sustainability, Dr. Chueh shares insights on the evolving energy landscape. The discussion spans the unpredictable energy demands of AI, the critical role of universities in long-term research, and the pressing need to diversify battery technologies while avoiding single-technology dependence.

The episode delves deep into the challenges and opportunities in battery manufacturing, comparing the rapid innovation cycles of the semiconductor industry with the slower progression in energy transition. Dr. Chueh emphasizes the importance of both incremental improvements and breakthrough innovations while highlighting the need for scalable manufacturing techniques. The conversation concludes with valuable advice for young researchers and entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of maintaining a holistic view while working toward global sustainability solutions.
Dr. William Chueh is the Director of Stanford’s Precourt Institute for Energy and an Associate Professor of Materials Science & Engineering at Stanford University. His research focuses on energy storage, conversion, and battery materials. As a Co-Founder of Mitra Chem, he works on accelerating the development of advanced battery technologies. Dr. Chueh is recognized for his contributions to sustainable energy solutions and bridging academia with industry innovation.
In This Episode:

(00:00) Dr. William Chueh shares his early inspiration from a Caltech teacher and journey into energy and sustainability, diverse career paths Dr. Chueh's students take in sustainability and related fields
(04:48) How universities pioneer high-risk, long-term research projects in energy technology
(12:15) Supplementing current power sources to power AI, exciting tech breakthroughs in energy sectors, how academic research and industrial applications work together to advance energy technology, AI's dual role as both an energy consumer and potential solution provider
(22:03) The evolution in battery technology, from incremental improvements to major breakthroughs, various battery chemistries and the importance of technological diversification, how different market segments require unique battery solutions
(31:28) Challenges in modernizing battery manufacturing processes, innovation cycles in semiconductor and energy transition industries
(38:05) Maintaining focus on the bigger picture while working on specific sustainability solutions, advice for ambitious entrepreneurs
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About the show:

The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show will cover factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts, aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.

About the hosts:
Will Drewery Will Drewery is the founder and CEO of Diagon, an equipment marketplace focused on serving the battery industry. With a background in equipment procurement, Will's career began as a DOD contractor in Iraq in 2009, followed by significant experience at Tesla (2012-2018), where he built and led the equipment procurement team. He also gained valuable tech expertise working with Social Construct and Astra. In February 2024, Will successfully led Diagon through a pivot from a procurement software model to its current marketplace focus, raising $4.3M in Series A funding. His mission is to simplify the complex processes of sourcing, financing, and managing machinery for high-tech industries, particularly in batteries and aerospace.

Greg Smyth is a co-founder and current VP of Supply Chain for Diagon, as well as a venture partner and podcast host. Greg has extensive experience in engineering, supply chain management, and investment. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, Greg worked at ExxonMobil for 8 years before moving to Silicon Valley in 2016. At Tesla, he spent 4 years negotiating $200M contracts, leading the development of self-driving hardware, and managing full life cycle commodity procurement—from raw materials to recycling. Greg is also an angel investor who continues to drive Diagon’s growth and success.

Resources:

(00:00) Dr. William Chueh shares his early inspiration from a Caltech teacher and journey into energy and sustainability, diverse career paths Dr. Chueh's students take in sustainability and related fields
(04:48) How universities pioneer high-risk, long-term research projects in energy technology
(12:15) Supplementing current power sources to power AI, exciting tech breakthroughs in energy sectors, how academic research and industrial applications work together to advance energy technology, AI's dual role as both an energy consumer and potential solution provider
(22:03) The evolution in battery technology, from incremental improvements to major breakthroughs, various battery chemistries and the importance of technological diversification, how different market segments require unique battery solutions
(31:28) Challenges in modernizing battery manufacturing processes, innovation cycles in semiconductor and energy transition industries
(38:05) Maintaining focus on the bigger picture while working on specific sustainability solutions, advice for ambitious entrepreneurs
Share with someone who would benefit, like, and subscribe to hear all our future episodes!

About the show:

Resources:

Previous Episode

Trade Policy Impacts on Battery Manufacturing

How could a potential new Trump administration reshape international trade policies and impact the global battery manufacturing supply chain?

In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of battery manufacturing amidst the ever-evolving global political landscape. How will President Trump’s return reshape the industry? We explore Canada's significant role in the battery supply chain and how U.S. policies are influencing its political and economic strategies. We’ll analyze Elon Musk's approaches to navigating these political waves, the transition from nickel-based to iron-based batteries, and the critical influence of China in lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery production.

We also delve into the impact of U.S.-China trade tensions, including recent export bans on crucial materials and their potential effects on the U.S. battery supply chain. Gain insights into the investment dynamics within the industry, the influence of the Inflation Reduction Act, and the possible shifts in policy under different administrations.

In This Episode:

(00:00) Supply chain impacts and policy projections, potential shifts under a new Trump administration, and how U.S. policies might influence Canada's political landscape and natural resource management
(10:00) Elon Musk's strategic responses to the political landscape
(17:59) China's role in lithium iron phosphate battery production and the impact of U.S.-China trade tensions on the U.S. battery supply chain
(34:00) Investment dynamics in battery manufacturing, emphasizing the influence of the Inflation Reduction Act, DOE grants, and potential policy shifts under different administrations
(36:00) Forward-looking perspective on the battery industry, the importance of staying informed about geopolitical developments, and a teaser for upcoming episodes
Share with someone who would benefit, like, and subscribe to listen to all of our future episodes!

About the show:

Greg Smyth is a co-founder and current VP of Supply Chain for Diagon, as well as a venture partner and podcast host. Greg has extensive experience in engineering, supply chain management, and investment. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, Greg worked at ExxonMobil for 8 years before moving to Silicon Valley in 2016. At Tesla, he spent 4 years negotiating contracts, leading the development of self-driving hardware, and managing full life cycle commodity procurement—from raw materials to recycling. Greg is also an angel investor who continues to drive Diagon’s growth and success.

Resources:

China proposes fresh export curbs on EV technology

China proposes restrictions on lithium and cathode technology exports

Diagon.ai

Will Drewery LinkedIn Greg Smyth LinkedIn Movers & Makers: Product of the Future January 30th in Stanford, CA

Next Episode

Dark, Dirty And Dangerous: A Conversation with Karla Trotman

Can manufacturing really become 'sexy' again for the next generation, and what surprising strategies might actually work?

In this compelling episode, we explore manufacturing leadership and innovation through the lens of Karla Trotman, President and CEO of Electro Soft, the largest black and women-owned electronics contract manufacturing firm in the US. Drawing from her experience transitioning from corporate roles at companies like Gap and Ikea to leading her family's manufacturing business, Trotman discusses the challenges and opportunities in modern manufacturing, particularly in high-mix, low-volume electronics production for defense and industrial applications.

You’ll hear a deep dive into critical industry topics including domestic manufacturing capabilities, workforce development challenges, and the importance of diversity in manufacturing leadership. Trotman, author of "Dark, Dirty and Dangerous: Building the Vibrant Future of Manufacturing," shares valuable insights on transforming manufacturing's image, developing the next generation of manufacturing talent, and managing family business succession while maintaining authenticity in leadership.
Karla Trotman is the President and CEO of Electro Soft, Inc. (ESI), the largest black and women-owned electronics contract manufacturing firm in the United States. Following successful roles in supply chain and logistics at Gap, Ikea, and Honeywell, she took over her family's manufacturing business, transforming it through innovative marketing and operational strategies. A graduate of Penn State and Drexel University, Trotman is also the author of "Dark, Dirty and Dangerous: Building the Vibrant Future of Manufacturing," where she addresses the challenges and opportunities in modern manufacturing while advocating for industry transformation.
In This Episode:

(00:00) Karla Trotman's journey from corporate America to leading Electro Soft, and her unique perspective on family business and breaking manufacturing stereotypes
(14:00) Electro Soft’s ongoing competitiveness in domestic manufacturing through high-mix low-volume production while addressing critical supply chain challenges and reshoring opportunities
(26:16) "Dark, Dirty and Dangerous" and how Trotman is working to transform manufacturing's image from an outdated stereotype to an innovative career path for future generations
(34:50) Authentic leadership and diversity in manufacturing - Trotman discusses navigating traditionally homogeneous spaces while staying true to her identity
(56:38) Practical advice for family business succession planning and preparing the next generation of leaders through early exposure, financial literacy, and creating meaningful connections within family business networks
Share with someone who would benefit, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!

About the show:

About the hosts:
Will Drewery Will Drewery is the founder and CEO of Diagon, an equipment marketplace focused on serving the battery industry. With a background in equipment procurement, Will's career began as a DOD contractor in Iraq in 2009, followed by significant experience at Tesla (2012-2018), where he built and led the equipment procurement team. He also gained valuable tech expertise working with Social Construct and Astra. In February 2024, Will successfully led Diagon through a pivot from a procurement software model to its current marketplace focus, raising $4.3M in Series A funding. His mission is to simplify the complex processes of sourcing, financing, and managing machinery for high-tech industries, particularly in batteries and aerospace.

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