Ep. 115 - Achieving Success: Charles Jackson's Story of Persistence, Growth, and Personal Development

Failed the FE or PE exam? You need to listen to this episode. Charles Jackson III joins Dr. James Bryant to discuss overcoming obstacles like failing the FE exam, finding work-life balance to avoid burnout, and managing younger generations entering the workforce. Charles shares his journey to becoming a licensed engineer and manager despite initial setbacks on the FE exam, and gives advice for test-takers. They discuss Charles' work in commissioning, and the soft skills like communication and empathy that make an effective manager. Charles provides wisdom on maintaining boundaries and self-care to avoid burnout, while advocating for employees. He also shares insight on the incoming generation of engineers, and how to motivate and retain them. 

Here’s a bit about Charles’ expertise:

With over 15 years in leadership, Charles specializes in commissioning processes for mission-critical and commercial infrastructures. Adept in power flow analysis using ETAP and Easy Power Analysis tools, he has managed diverse projects from Data Centers to healthcare institutions. His expertise spans HVAC/R, Electrical, and cutting-edge building technologies. Recognized in Consulting-Specifying Engineers Magazine's "40 under 40" in 2022, Charles currently serves on the Board for AABC Commissioning Group (ACG).

[00:01 – 07:03] Charles’ Journey into Commissioning and Design

- Started in electrical engineering, took a break to work in distribution for a year

- Moved to DC area, worked for consultant firm on small projects 

- Got opportunity to work at Pentagon doing commissioning, learned a lot hands-on

- Spent 10-15 years in commissioning, now back in design and project management

[07:04 – 16:14] Overcoming Exam Adversity

- Waited 5 years after college to take FE exam, failed first two times by not taking it seriously  

- Finally passed FE after disciplined study and different studying environment

- Shares advice for those struggling with motivation and discouragement  

[16:15 – 24:48] Leading by Example: Managing with Empathy

- Best managers empathize, communicate clearly, and make themselves available 

- Try to put yourself in employees' shoes and remember being in their role

- Focus on relating to each employee's perspective and background

[24:49 – 34:43] Avoiding Burnout and Closing Segment 

- Biggest threat right now is employee burnout from lack of realistic deadlines

- Encourages taking time off, celebrating wins, and pushing back on executives

- Regrets not setting boundaries earlier in his career to avoid burnout

- Shares wisdom on perseverance, planning, and follow-through

You can connect with Charles Jackson III on LinkedIn.

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Important Resources to Note:

Click here https://sleekbio.com/jbryant for important resources mentioned on this podcast.

Quotes:

"A piece of paper doesn't prove whether you're smart or not.” -  Charles Jackson III

"Anything you want to do … create a plan … put some action behind it and you'll get it done." - Charles Jackson III