From Field to Office: How Casey Lilley Built a Career Rooted in Grit, Growth, and Leadership

Casey Lilley’s journey to becoming Business Operations Manager at HOLT Renewables is one built on hustle, adaptability, and a deep-rooted respect for the construction industry—from the ground up. At 22, Casey took her first steps into commercial construction, not knowing then that it would become her long-term path. From project coordinator to assistant superintendent to running her own commercial jobs, she quickly proved she belonged in a field often dominated by men. “I was proud to be a female superintendent holding my own,” she said, reflecting on the pride that came with standing tall in her role.

Casey’s career took a pivotal turn when she joined HOLT Renewables as a traveling superintendent, a role that not only gave her a front-row seat to projects across the country but also fulfilled a childhood dream of a life filled with travel. Though new to solar at the time, Casey leaned into the challenge with a high level of curiosity and work ethic. Her ability to learn fast and adapt quickly earned her a promotion to project manager, where she took on new responsibilities and thrived in the face of steep learning curves.

Most recently, when the company needed someone to step into the role of Business Operations Manager, Casey ready to go. She didn’t just take the role—she embraced it. Her ability to lead with empathy, solve complex problems, and offer support to her team made her a natural fit. “I’m proud to be a place of refuge when the going gets tough and to work with individuals who share the same values as me,” she says.

Those values—ethics, commitment, and service—aren’t just buzzwords for Casey; they’re part of her DNA. She credits her father for instilling a strong work ethic and teaching her how to navigate a male-dominated industry. Her mother, the heart of their family, taught her compassion and organization. Together, they raised her with the kind of values that align seamlessly with HOLT’s own: do what’s needed, do it well, and finish the job with integrity.

Casey also sees the impact of Values Based Leadership in her daily work. She believes that truly effective leadership comes from understanding how people work and learn differently. “Reaching goals requires a multitude of different ideas and viewpoints,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and honesty in building relationships on the job. For her, Values Based Leadership isn’t just a training—it’s a bond that helps her and her colleagues connect and collaborate more effectively.

Whether it’s problem-solving from a set of blueprints, managing internal operations, or providing exceptional customer service, Casey thrives on the challenges construction offers. “There’s a specific type of gratification that comes when a solution finally clicks,” she says. “And even more so when a customer walks away with a positive experience they’ll never forget.”

Outside of work, Casey’s energy and creativity don’t slow down. She and her partner are avid adventurers—camping, hiking, hitting theme parks for their best roller coasters, and regularly attending Renaissance festivals (in full costume, of course). Halloween is her favorite time of year, and she’s known for transforming her home into elaborate themed scenes. She also finds joy in crafting and creating: sewing, woodworking, leatherwork, and more.

At HOLT Renewables, she brings more than experience—she brings heart, vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.