It is a pleasure to introduce James Carpenter as the new chief executive officer and executive director of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors. In many cases, the outgoing person has reservations regarding the one who assumes his or her position. That are no such reservations in this transition and it is felt that the search committee made an excellent choice in the selection of Jim Carpenter and the entire IAEI Board of Directors strongly supports his appointment. Many within the electrical industry already know Jim and his proven record of achievements and those who do not know him or of his work will soon understand his value to the IAEI.
Jim brings a valuable set of credentials to the office that will enable him to provide strong and stable leadership for the IAEI. The primary responsibilities associated with the position of CEO/Executive Director have shifted more toward the administrative and business side of the operation with less emphasis on the technical side associated with codes and standards. However, Jim’s sound electrical training and experience will be an asset in his role as editor-in-chief as he is responsible for the review and approval of articles and material included in the IAEI News, the IAEI web site, and the other published materials produced by the IAEI.
Years of experience in code enforcement and his advancement to the administrative level of code enforcement has provided Jim with sound leadership and decision-making skills. As chief electrical engineer/state electrical inspector, with the North Carolina Department of Insurance, he was responsible for managing the inspection program and the Third Party Certification program. In that position, he also provided consultations services for the state electrical code.
The quiet and reserved manner Jim demonstrates belies the inner strength and organizational ability he possesses, and those of us who have watched him work over the years are impressed with his ability to analyze and address complex situations. These characteristics will be important as he moves forward and provides leadership that will enable the organization to realize its great potential. Understanding the inspector’s needs and those of other partners within the electrical industry are vital elements in the quest for industry support for electrical safety and Jim is very familiar with what electrical inspectors face.
The assumption of the position of CEO/Executive Director carries with it a heavy work load and a heavy burden of responsibilities. It is my firm conviction that Jim is the right person for the time and is capable of handling whatever he must face. The IAEI will be better because of his commitment to serving the organization and his willingness to make the necessary sacrifices to properly do the job. Each member is encouraged to welcome Jim and to give him the support necessary to do his job.
