What separates a great technician from everybody else is the pride they take in their work.
What separates Calvert Controls as a company is that we set the bar high and our team is filled with dedicated professionals who take pride in their work — and equally important, they take pride in being a great teammate.
There’s no better example than Charles Allen. He’s an experienced member of our Service Division, who finds his greatest satisfaction in delivering at a high level for our clients while guiding and mentoring the apprentices and helpers on his team.
And … he’s about to be a grandfather! Get to know Charles better in our latest Calvert Controls Spotlight Q&A!
What got you interested in a career in this field?
My dad was my inspiration to get into the trades. He’s always worked with his hands at every job he’s worked on, and I aspired to do the same.
What are your primary responsibilities as a Service Division tech?
My duties are to repair and maintain heating and cooling systems for various customers in a wide variety of locations. Also train up the helpers and apprentices to prepare them for a career in HVAC.
Can you share an example of a particularly memorable project or an instance where you were able to step in and make a big difference for a client in a difficult situation?
Recently, I had a customer who had 2 compressors not working inside of an air handler. After going over all the information I gathered while trying to get them to run, I realized the circuits were overcharged. I recovered some of the refrigerant from the 2 compressors and they started running better immediately. The customer was grateful to get his clients some much-needed relief.
As an experienced team member, how do you take the opportunity to mentor younger team members? And what are the biggest lessons you can share with them?
I remember being an apprentice and having a good group of techs that were patient and willing to teach. I pass that same philosophy on with the next generation, encouraging them and allowing them to ask questions without judging. Good techs bring up good apprentices who eventually become good techs.
What do you enjoy doing most outside of work?
I mainly spend time with my kids. I enjoy doing projects around the house. I also occasionally golf and fish. Thinking about getting back into cycling.
What’s something that your co-workers would be surprised to learn about you?
No one believes I’m 45 and that I’m about to become a grandfather!
What do you love most about working at Calvert Controls?
The camaraderie among my coworkers. Everyone is willing to step up and help. Having a great attitude towards the work and each other makes the job worth doing.