Chris Ely
Job Title: Northern California Service Technician
Company: Photovoltaics California
Location: Pleasanton, Calif.
Age: 26
Years on the Job: 3
Interests: Enjoys painting/art, traveling with friends for snowboarding or camping trips, and working on cars with friends and family
Chris Ely has always had a love for working with his hands and tools. With a mechanical and construction background, the electrical industry was a natural fit.
“I attempted traditional education and college, but I was unhappy and decided to make a change,” says Ely, who was born in Washington and raised in California.
Ely, who is currently enrolled in WECA, is completing a five-year apprenticeship program with his company, Photovoltaics California, and pursuing his journeyman’s license.
Ely says he takes pride in safety, learning, and teaching others what he knows about electrical, communications, and commercial solar operations and maintenance. In the solar industry, he says equipment is quickly becoming obsolete.
“I am constantly working on unfamiliar or new equipment that I have to research and learn,” he says. “I am helping this company by doing back-end research. It helps my career and our company grow and develop.”
During a typical day as a field service technician, Ely performs electrical and communication troubleshooting, works directly with clients, management, and manufacturers, and services sites in Northern California.
“My favorite part of my role is the appreciation and respect I get from clients and management when service calls and projects go smoothly and under budget,” he says.
He is currently closing out and working on a portfolio of commercial rooftop systems across California. In five to 10 years, he plans to work in management for a commercial solar O&M provider or pursue his C10 contractor license and starting a small contracting company with a few employees.
“I take pride in my work and skillset, and I look forward to all future projects I will be a part of,” Ely says.
