The Force Multiplier: Automation, Robotics, and Workforce Development with Straylight Ventures Andrew Morse

On this episode of the Raptor Report, Avery Black and Don Nista sit down with Andrew Morse, VP of Software at FTC Solar and Founder of Straylight Ventures, to discuss the expanding role of robotics in the solar industry.Andrew provides a unique perspective on automation, arguing that robotics are not a replacement for the workforce but a natural evolution of the technologies we already deploy, such as tracker control systems. The conversation centers on the concept of the "Force Multiplier"—how leveraging robotics for repetitive or dangerous tasks allows human crews to double productivity and focus on high-value critical thinking.In this episode, we cover:The Force Multiplier Effect: How to double field productivity without doubling headcount.Safety & Efficiency: Reducing risk by removing technicians from heavy lifting and high-voltage environments.Technology Evolution: Why robotics are the next logical step in site instrumentation and control.Adoption at Scale: Moving beyond pilot programs to widespread industry integration.Related Resources:The Raptor Maps 2025 State of Solar Robotics: https://raptormaps.com/resources/state-of-solar-robotics-2025Straylight Ventures 2025 Solar Robotics Report: https://straylightventures.com/product/2025-solar-robotics-report/FTC Solar Robot-Ready Report: https://www.ftcsolar.com/robot-ready-solar-construction/ Who's Raptor Maps? Raptor Maps is a solar management platform at the intersection of AI and robotics. Our services combine the industry's most comprehensive visual analytics suite with the ability to orchestrate solar management, construction, and operations work by people and robotics. In turn, Raptor Maps provides the digital foundation teams need to scale their capabilities without straining their budgets and to ultimately increase the reliability and return of their solar assets.