John Carter is a Master Electrician for EnergyLink, where he is well-versed in the complexities of energy projects. Carter primarily focuses on the AC side of work, as well as DC installations when needed. He is responsible for installing the main electrical disconnects, panels to power the system, stringing solar panels, and installing combiner boxes and inverters. As an integral part of the operations team, Carter is also responsible for ensuring that all safety requirements are in place and that progress updates are regularly communicated to the team.
Carter has been an electrician for most of his life, and his love for the electrical industry began at a young age. His father, Sydney was a master electrician who owned a small business, and his brother was in college for engineering. John’s father would buy them electronic kits from Radio Shack, and they would spend hours building small race cars, flashlights, fan motors and creating their own radio stations. These early experiences helped to develop his love for the electrical industry, and he has been working in the field for over 25 years.
Before joining EnergyLink, Carter was a small business owner who worked on residential and commercial electrical work. He also did some industrial lighting systems, smart home systems, low voltage building communication systems and residential solar. Carter previously did traveling work for a variety of companies as well. Throughout his electrical work, one of his most notable experiences was helping thousands of people restore power after Hurricane Katrina.
As an integral part of the operations team, Carter works on projects from the beginning to create a plan for efficient construction. Carter is responsible for the materials needed, having a plan in place to lead the ground crew, and staying on schedule. He works closely with the owner or general contractor on-site to ensure that all safety requirements are in place and that progress updates are regularly communicated to the team.
Beyond his leadership responsibilities, one aspect of the job that some may not know of is mechanics. The mechanical aspects of projects are crucial, as before pulling a single wire, everything needs to be built. This includes disconnects, panels, combiner boxes, inverters, and other mechanical systems. Building the system in a workman-like manner is essential to ensure the system operates safely and effectively.
As a person of color in the energy industry, Carter has faced some challenges but states he feels blessed with opportunities because of his father’s influence. Carter has trained and worked in the industry since a young age, holding roles like leader and foreman onsite. Growing up, Carter learned to read blueprints, talk with owners, and keep the job on schedule, which established a strong sense of responsibility and work ethic.
Carter attributes his work ethic and leadership skills to his relationship-building. On the operations teams, he states the dynamic is like a family in which they all expect excellence. This trust built by Carter has strengthened the team and EnergyLink as a whole, allowing the company to self-perform electrical work for its nationwide projects.
