Leadership Spotlight: Mark Lillis, VP of Engineering

In this feature, Mark Lillis, VP of Engineering discusses SKYRE's future, highlighting the revolutionary impact of our high-pressure PEM systems. He shares insights into a rewarding project—mass-producing high-purity, high-pressure hydrogen recycling systems, crucial for environmental conservation and financial gains.

What made you choose SKYRE?  

I have had the pleasure of knowing the founder, Dr. Trent Molter, for many decades. I am enthusiastic about the potential of hydrogen and electrolysis as a straightforward solution to numerous technical challenges worldwide. My passion lies in transforming problems into solutions.

How do you connect to SKYRE’s mission?   

Many companies often adopt a limited perspective when it comes to specific technologies, neglecting a thorough exploration of all dimensions of the problem. Additionally, they may fail to envision the full potential and growth opportunities inherent in a given technology. Dr. Molter serves as a prime example, demonstrating that success stems from a profound understanding of the chemistry and mechanics of the proton exchange membrane (PEM), coupled with a visionary approach to introducing PEM products to user markets.

I am enthusiastic about contributing to the mission of advancing sustainable hydrogen generation, compression, recycling, and carbon capture within our lifetime.

What do you hope for SKYRE's future?  

In contrast to numerous companies utilizing outdated 1980s techniques for manufacturing basic low-pressure hydrogen generators, SKYRE's high-pressure PEM systems are poised to revolutionize industrial manufacturing applications in sectors such as glass, steel, and semiconductors. This innovation extends beyond industrial realms to encompass commercial compression, CO2 capture, and the development of mixed natural gas/hydrogen fuels.

What’s a rewarding project you’ve worked on?

We have advanced the production of high-purity, high-pressure hydrogen recycling to a stage where we can efficiently mass-produce systems. These systems not only contribute to environmental conservation but also enhance the financial performance of existing companies. The everyday products we purchase are currently contributing to air pollution through wasteful emissions worldwide. The atmosphere has become the new conduit for manufacturers' waste, replacing traditional outlets like oceans and landfills. Hydrogen recycling, though not widely recognized as “sexy”, now offers a crucial solution. At SKYRE, we possess the technology to cease polluting the air in the manufacturing processes of items such as sleek stainless steel dishwashers and semiconductor chips for our sophisticated mobile devices.

What’s a fun fact about you? 

In the spring of 2007, during a business trip to New Orleans, I unintentionally found myself on the set of the Fox TV crime drama series K'ville, which aired for one season in late 2017. One evening, while strolling through the city, I encountered intensely bright lights, and suddenly, I heard someone shout, "Cut!" It dawned on me that I had unwittingly become an extra in a street scene for a television show or movie.

Deciding to go with the flow, I seamlessly blended into the scenes and observed the production in progress. Engaging in numerous scenes over several hours of shooting, I became an unexpected participant. The production staff remained unaware that I was a walk-on, but the other actors and extras found it amusing that I had seamlessly integrated into the scenes, taking direction from the show's staff.

To my surprise, I even had the opportunity to share a late meal with the entire cast and crew at the craft services tent. The experience turned out to be a delightful adventure!