Luke Meyers at age two
1. What’s your position with Brightergy? How long have you been working here?
I am the St. Louis Quality Assurance Specialist / Service Technician. In short, I’m an electrician. I started with Brightergy 14 months ago in June of 2012.
2. Where are you from/where did you grow up? What’s your background (educational/work)?
I’m from Tampa, FL. I grew up in the suburbs of Tampa in beautiful New Port Richey, FL. My background is in heavy commercial electrical construction. After high school, I started working for a great contractor in FL – All Phase Electric. They really became a family to me, putting me through the IEC 4 yr. Electrical Apprenticeship where I attained a journeyman electrician credential. I was very fortunate to get a wide array of experiences while over the 13 years I was there: everything from heavy duty switchgear and motor control to low voltage access, lighting controls, and Fire Alarm. I have also completed my NICET I and II for low voltage systems.
So how did I end up in the Lou? How else: my wife, Caroline. She had just finished her residency as a pediatrician and matched with the pediatric gastroenterology fellowship at Washington University. So, now she is in her 2nd year of fellowship at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. We live in the city near Tower Grove park and have really enjoyed the St. Louis area and our new adventure.
Luke with his wife Caroline
3. Why solar? What first got you interested in renewable energy?
Solar for me was mostly an ideological decision. I was specifically looking for a renewable company when I found out we were moving. I am interested in renewable energy because I love the electrical trade, how electricity works, and how it can look when it’s installed to a really high standard. I also enjoy breathing air, and would prefer to continue.
4. What is something people might not know about your job and/or what you do?
I’m not sure; I think my job is pretty self-explanatory. On the front end, I try to make sure the level of installation is of high quality to prevent anything from failing. Then if something does fail, I go out and fix it. Also, solar panels are heavy.
5. How do you define sustainability?
Something that can be utilized without depleting.
6. When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your free time?
I have too many hobbies. Lately, my wife and I have been doing a lot of trail running with our dog, Bell. We also do “Crossfit.” Of course, University of Florida football (since my wife was a cheerleader there, we try to make it home at least once a year for a game).
7. What’s something your coworkers don’t know about you?
I placed 7th at the Independent Electrical Contractors’ National Wire-Off when I completed my apprenticeship. I have been on several mission trips to Bolivia and Ecuador to build schools and churches with construction with World Wide Evangelism. My father and I once drove our motorcycles from Spring Hill, FL to Hyder, Alaska.
Did you miss last week’s BrighterFaces post? Meet Solar Technician, Terry Seals.