Meet Carrie Sterns, business manager for Oak Electric, Inc.
Tell us a little about your business. – Oak Electric, Inc. (www.oakelectric.com) is a 100% women-owned, premium contractor with a record of exemplary service. We have a fabulous team of hard-working electricians who provide quality customer service and find the best solutions to every project with creativity and experience.
How did you get started in the business? – One of my good friends is an electrician and for years he would tell me how much he enjoys working for Oak. At that time, I was working for a national corporation and was beyond excited for the opportunity to join Team Oak!
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Being a part of the service industry requires a lot of flexibility and accommodating. Some days can be challenging to try to please everyone.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – When I left the corporate world and found my “home” in small business, I discovered how much better life is when you genuinely love your job. It is very rewarding to be apart of team working towards the same goal. I feel like I can be the best version of myself, and I have found the balance between work and family.
Tell us a little about your family. – My husband and I have three busy boys (ages 11, 7, and 1) plus two fur babies. It’s a full house, but what’s life without all the chaos? We all love football—Saturdays it’s the Huskers, and we root for the Cowboys on Sundays.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Anything with my family. I am very close with my siblings, and I love spending time outside. If I’m not watching my boys’ sports games, you would probably find me by the pool.
Who inspires you? – This might sound cliché’, but I am inspired by my boss Crystal. In the past year of being with Oak, I have watched her handle many challenges. She knows how to stay cool, calm, and collected and doesn’t make decisions based off emotions. She’s confident and sincerely cares about her team.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – I have a tendency to always put others’ wants before my needs and I have learned to establish healthy boundaries.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Genuine.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – Teleportation. I get so busy, I wish I could be in three places at once. Let’s be honest though, being a mom is a super power in itself.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – Gifts of Love is a great organization! I also support the Capital Humane Society. I have always had a soft spot for dogs and, if I could, I would adopt them all!
What is your favorite movie? – Sweet Home Alabama or The Blind Side.
What is your favorite TV show? – Yellowstone.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – La Paz Mexican Restaurant.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 440-5969; oakelectriccompany@gmail.com; www.oakelectric.com.