Mike Bolan
Summary
Dynamic team leader with a proven track record in managing complex, multi-state projects and fostering strong stakeholder relationships across diverse regulatory environments. Expertise in guiding cross-functional teams, advising clients on strategic initiatives, and driving project execution from scope and planning to delivery while effectively mitigating risks. A solid background in partner-facing leadership, operational coordination, land acquisition, and regulatory engagement enhances the ability to navigate challenges with private landowners, public agencies, utilities, consultants, and contractors. Recognized for exceptional communication and negotiation skills, along with a talent for maintaining organization and focus on complex initiatives under pressure.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Team Lead
SWCA Environmental Consultants
07.2019 - 05.2026
- Led Land Services teams serving renewable energy clients nationwide, managing complex, multi‑state projects from scoping through site control and land acquisition while ensuring on‑time, on‑budget delivery. I developed and executed site control strategies, directed landowner outreach and negotiations for leases, easements, and purchase agreements, and oversaw critical deliverables including site control agreements, amendments, and due diligence documentation. As the primary client contact I advised on regulatory risk, siting, and acquisition approaches, maintained long‑term developer relationships that generated repeat work, and contributed to business development and proposal efforts. I managed teams of agents and assistant managers, coordinated field logistics and mapping, mentored junior staff, and secured several gigawatts of capacity through land contracts and easements.
Water Quality Analyst
Tennessee Technological University
05.2018 - 05.2019
- Independently managed field and laboratory water-quality operations, overseeing sample collection performed by seven contracted vendors and executing EPA-standard laboratory analyses to support regulatory and compliance decisions. I coordinated daily and monthly sampling schedules, maintained chain-of-custody, implemented proper wastewater treatment procedures, and interpreted analytical measurements including flow, turbidity, pH, dissolved oxygen, and pollutant concentrations. Working with minimal supervision, I prepared clear, data-driven summaries that informed stormwater compliance and safety assessments and conducted fieldwork using a university vehicle in accordance with institutional guidelines. In July 2018 I supported a targeted stream survey at Lick Creek, TN to evaluate a potential wastewater discharge location for the State of Tennessee, synthesizing field observations with lab results and producing a concise technical summary to support regulatory review.
Manager, Cutter, and Trainer
Texas Roadhouse
05.2004 - 07.2014
- Led daily operations for high-volume restaurant kitchens over 15 years. Managed teams of 50+ while coordinating closely with front-of-house leadership to keep service running smoothly. Trained nearly all new hires across both locations, supported hiring and onboarding, and frequently stepped to balance scheduling, workflow, and guest-service needs. Served as the primary meat cutter in a fast-paced, high-output environment while overseeing up to $1M in inventory, ensuring consistent quality, safety, and efficiency.
Kitchen Manager
Rafferty's
05.1999 - 07.2004
- Promoted rapidly into leadership and entrusted to manage operations at two high-volume restaurant locations, I oversaw all kitchen functions for more than 100 front- and back-of-house staff and directly supervised two kitchen managers. I created and maintained the weekly kitchen schedule to optimize coverage and control labor costs, recruited and trained team members, and delegated responsibilities to ensure consistent performance across both sites. By implementing tailored par levels and tightening inventory controls, I reduced food costs while maintaining product availability, and I directed daily production processes and quality checks that consistently exceeded food quality and safety standards. I also coordinated closely with front-of-house leadership to streamline workflows, resolve service bottlenecks under pressure, and sustain reliable guest experiences.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Sustainability, Natural Resources
Tennessee Technological University
05-2019
Associate of Science - undefined
Pellissippi State Community College
05-2016
Skills
- Adaptive leadership under pressure
- Cross‑functional project management
- Contract closing and deal execution
- Business development instincts
- Organizational collaboration
- Strategic judgment
- Calm, solution‑oriented problem solving
- Reputation for client retention
- Action-Oriented Creative Problem Solving
- Solar, Wind, and Battery Storage Project Siting, Acquisition and Management
- Business Development and Client Relationships
- Strong Commitment to Training, Mentoring, and Team Development
Volunteer work
Volunteer trail maintenance on the Sheltowee National Scenic Trail in Daniel Boone National Forest, performing trail clearing, tread repair, erosion control, and signage upkeep. Sawyer‑certified for chainsaw operations and hazard tree removal ensuring sustainable, user‑safe trail conditions.
Hobbies and Interests
Trail Running, Kayaking, Traveling, Cooking, Volunteering
Timeline
Team Lead
SWCA Environmental Consultants
07.2019 - 05.2026
Water Quality Analyst
Tennessee Technological University
05.2018 - 05.2019
Manager, Cutter, and Trainer
Texas Roadhouse
05.2004 - 07.2014
Kitchen Manager
Rafferty's
05.1999 - 07.2004
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Sustainability, Natural Resources
Tennessee Technological University
Associate of Science - undefined
Pellissippi State Community College