Our recent trip to Morocco in mid-September 2024 was an invaluable opportunity to forge stronger ties with our partners at Agamine and explore the future of product development and manufacturing. The Smart Oregon Solutions team—comprising Patrice Tsague, our Chief Executive Officer, Barry Redman, VP of Operations, Jon Gruett from Operations, Col. Jeff Williams, Technical Advisor, and myself, Elizabeth Sahayaraj—set out to learn and collaborate in the vibrant city of Agadir.
Arrival in Marrakesh
Our journey began in Marrakesh, where we were greeted by warm smiles and the welcoming spirit of the Agamine team. After a brief introduction, we embarked on a scenic drive along Morocco’s stunning landscapes, heading towards Agadir. The journey, though a few hours long, was filled with excitement and anticipation for what lay ahead.
A Luxurious Stay
Upon arrival in Agadir, we checked into a beautiful hotel, Dominium Palace, owned by Mr. Aziz Abulmajd, the CEO of Agamine. After settling in, we enjoyed an evening of relaxation, soaking in the hospitality and charm of Morocco and had dinner together as a team.
Factory Tour: Quality in Every Detail
The Agamine factory tour was a highlight of our trip, as it showcased the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The factory was meticulously organized, with distinct areas dedicated to different stages of production. Bernhard Kolk, Mr. Aziz’s partner guided us through the manufacturing process, explaining each step in detail.
In the manufacturing area, we witnessed the production of photovoltaic (PV) panels—an intricate process that combines advanced technology with skilled craftsmanship. It was fascinating to see how raw materials were transformed into high-quality solar products, emphasizing Agamine’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Next, we moved to the assembly and cabling section, where technicians expertly assembled the solar poles and integrated the cabling systems including the batteries installation and controller integration. The meticulous attention to detail was immediately noticeable; every connection was ensured for reliability and performance to secure quality control. We also received valuable tips on installation practices, further enhancing our understanding of the entire process.
Overall, the factory tour affirmed our confidence in Agamine as a collaborative partner. Their commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation aligns perfectly with our goals at Smart Oregon Solutions, and we left inspired by the potential for future collaboration.
A Taste of Moroccan Hospitality
After the factory tour, we then received outstanding treatment from Mr. Aziz and his team, who graciously hosted us for lunch at his home in Agadir. This gathering fostered strong connections and camaraderie among our teams as we enjoyed a delightful meal featuring locally sourced ingredients, concluding with the renowned Moroccan tea. The entire experience embodied the essence of Moroccan hospitality.
Diving Deeper into Collaboration
Following lunch, we returned to Agamine’s offices for a series of technical discussions. Our engineering team engaged deeply with Agamine’s experts, asking pertinent questions and exchanging ideas that would drive our collaborative efforts forward. We examined different strategies to improve our product development and marketing efforts, while also discussing the logistics for the future of manufacturing our products at Smart Oregon Solutions.
Conclusion and Next Steps
As our trip came to a close, we wrapped up with a discussion on next steps and areas for follow-up. The dialogue was rich with possibilities, and we left with a clearer vision of how to maximize our collaboration for productivity and innovation.
The trip to Morocco was an enriching experience that strengthened our partnership with Agamine and provided us with valuable insights and practical action items. We returned to Oregon inspired and ready to take the next steps in our journey toward sustainable solutions.
In the end, it was not just about the products we discussed, but also the relationships we built. We look forward to a bright future ahead with Agamine as we work together to create impactful solutions for our communities.
Sincerely,
Patrice Tsague
CEO, Smart Oregon Solutions