Hounen Solar has been making waves in South Carolina by not only producing sustainable energy solutions but also by empowering its employees and fostering a sense of community. Hear from three Hounen employees—Megan Venable, Martha Abney-Legette, and Denise Duley—as they share their unique stories of growth, personal development, and what it means to be part of the Hounen team.

From Repairing Cells to Leading Teams: Megan Venable’s Journey

Megan Venable, the Team Lead in prelamination at Hounen Solar, talked about her journey from job seeker to team leader. When Megan first started, the Orangeburg facility was in its infancy. “I’ve seen so much growth from then to now. It has felt awesome,” she said, reflecting on her time at the company.

Megan discovered Hounen through a job listing on Indeed, and after getting a call, she knew it was the right opportunity. “I saw the job on Indeed, got a call, and it paid off,” she shared. Megan began her career at Hounen repairing cells, and thanks to her quick learning and work ethic, she quickly advanced. “I started repairing cells, and I got the hang of it so quickly that I was soon training others,” she explained.

Now a team lead, Megan’s responsibilities have grown along with the company. “It all starts with the cell,” she said, explaining the importance of her role in prelamination, the first step in the solar panel production process. She takes great pride in her work, knowing that her efforts contribute directly to combating climate change. “I want to be able to say we got from here to here by the work we did in Orangeburg,” she said.

From Hairstylist to Team Lead: The Story of Martha Abney-Legette

Martha Abney-Legette, Hounen Solar’s team lead spent 30 years as a hairstylist before making the leap into manufacturing—a decision that has changed her life in unexpected ways. “I came out over a year ago, and it’s been a blessing ever since,” Martha said as she described her transition to Hounen.

Starting as a janitor, Martha never imagined how quickly her career would grow at Hounen. “I’ve seen growth in the company really fast. If you show up, come to work, and work hard, they move you up, and they give you more incentives,” she explained. Martha’s hard work was recognized, and she was promoted to her current role as a team lead.

For Martha, Hounen Solar isn’t just a place to work—it’s a community. “In the plant, I grew family and friends in both cultures,” she said, referencing the cross-cultural relationships she’s built with her colleagues, including Chinese managers and team members. The close-knit environment has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her job. “You get a good rapport with them, they fist bump, you build connection,” she said with a grin.

Martha’s story is a testament to the opportunities Hounen provides to those willing to work hard. “I see it growing and staying around for many years,” she said confidently, reflecting on the future of Hounen Solar and her place within the company.

A New Chapter: Denise Duley’s Career Growth at Hounen

Denise Duley, now a supervisor on the production floor, also made a significant career shift when she joined Hounen Solar. After spending 25 years working at a different plant, Denise was ready for a change. “People said how great the company was, and I came in, and right away, it felt relaxed,” she shared.

Denise started out as a machine operator at Hounen, but her curiosity and determination set her apart. “I pretty much just kept moving myself around,” she said, explaining how she rotated between jobs—soldering, frame assembly, and J-box production. Management noticed her versatility, and within five months, Denise was promoted. “They noticed, ‘She’s a quick learner,’ and within five months I was a team lead,” she said.

For Denise, one of the things that sets Hounen Solar apart is the room for growth and the supportive environment. “If you show up, you have a job, and you have the opportunity to work your way up. I like this company because you have room to grow.”

Denise’s previous experience in manufacturing gave her a unique perspective on what makes a company successful, and she appreciates the opportunities that Hounen offers. “People like the Hounen pay,” she said, emphasizing that both financial and professional growth are readily available to those who put in the effort.

A Shared Mission: Growing Together for a Sustainable Future

For Megan, Martha, and Denise, their three careers all share a consistent theme: Hounen Solar is more than just a workplace. It’s a place where individuals can grow, be recognized for their hard work, and feel like they’re making a difference—not only for themselves and their families but also for the world. The company’s mission to promote sustainable energy solutions resonates deeply with its employees, many of whom take pride in knowing they’re part of something bigger than themselves.

Megan, whose work in prelamination is critical to the solar panel production process, spoke about this sense of purpose. “It feels good to know we’re making a difference,” she said, reflecting on how her work contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable future. Martha echoed this sentiment, adding, “I’ve grown so much here, and it’s been great to watch the company grow too.”

Denise, who transitioned from another plant, sees a bright future for both herself and Hounen Solar. “I like this company because you have room to grow,” she said.

Hounen Solar’s impact on the South Carolina community goes beyond providing stable employment. It’s about empowering individuals like Megan, Martha, and Denise to take control of their professional futures while contributing to the mission of promoting renewable energy.

As Hounen continues to grow, the opportunities for its employees and the local community will only expand. Whether it’s training new hires in cutting-edge solar technologies or promoting hardworking team members into leadership roles, Hounen Solar is a company committed to growth, sustainability, and the empowerment of its people. For the employees of Hounen Solar, it’s clear that this is more than just a job—it’s a place where they can thrive, innovate, and be part of a global movement toward a more sustainable future.