CJ Smith is a man with many talents and experiences. Originally from Scottown, Ohio, CJ served in the US Army during the Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom campaigns. He had always wanted to work in the solar industry, but he didn’t see many opportunities where he lived. When Solar Holler crossed his path, it offered him the change he’d been looking for. CJ is now one of Solar Holler’s Master Electricians and brings with him over 15 years of electrical know-how.
While there’s no such thing as a “typical workday” for an electrician working in solar, CJ is grateful that every day brings a new set of challenges to keep his job interesting. “I love meeting new people, getting to travel across the state, and help people save money. The only thing I don’t like about my job is having to wait on the utility company!” Homeowners usually have questions about their new solar installation and CJ patiently walks them through how each of the components function.
When asked what he’d be doing if he didn’t have to work for a living, CJ says, “I’d be building homes for the underprivileged.”
As someone that clearly knows how to work with his hands, you might be surprised to learn that CJ is also a published poet! When he’s not writing poetry or working on side jobs, you can find CJ with his fishing rod next to the water.
CJ and his wife of 20 years have two children– their daughter is set to begin college this year and their son will be a junior in high school. They also share their home with a dog and cat.
A little more about CJ in his own words…
If you could do a different job for just one day, what would it be?
X-Ray technician
What advice would you give to someone that’s just starting out in this industry?
Be open minded.
What’s one tool you use in your job that you couldn’t live without?
My level.
What’s the best vacation you’ve been on?
A cruise to the Bahamas, my first time to the beach.
If you could witness any historical event, what would it be?
The signing of The Declaration of Independence.
