Team Tapestry: Meet Electrical Subject Matter Charles Cleary

At Connico, every team member brings a unique story, and it’s those individual threads that come together to shape our culture, our work, and the future we’re building. That’s what Team Tapestry is all about: celebrating the people behind the projects and highlighting the values that tie us together.  

In this edition, we’re excited to introduce Charles Cleary, electrical subject matter expert, who takes pride in building a smart and collaborative team that is shaping the future of aviation and infrastructure. 

Charles joined Connico nearly seven years ago, bringing deep expertise in electrical systems and operations. As a U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Paratrooper and Gulf War veteran, he followed a nontraditional career path by earning both his journeyman and master electrical licenses, along with a contractor’s license, before spending more than a decade in electrical power services operations. At Connico, Charles leverages his technical knowledge and leadership to drive innovative projects nationwide. 

Tell us about your background and your role at Connico. 

My background is in electrical contracting, where I spent many years overseeing installations, troubleshooting systems, and ensuring projects met safety standards and client expectations. That hands-on experience gave me a solid foundation in both the technical and practical aspects of the field.  

Since joining Connico, I’ve led our electrical practice by developing estimates, advising clients, and supporting teams throughout a project’s lifecycle. I work closely with my team to share best practices and ensure our work consistently meets the highest industry standards. 

How does Connico support your personal growth and development? 

Working with a diverse group like Connico’s has provided me with many role models I might not have otherwise encountered in the more specialized world of electrical contracting. The variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives on our team challenges me to think outside the box and learn more simply by collaborating with professionals in different disciplines who empower me to keep evolving in my career. Connico fosters a culture of continuous learning, where curiosity is encouraged and professional development is supported through mentorship, project variety, or ongoing education, allowing me to learn more every day. 

How does your role contribute to Connico’s goals and success? 

Our work directly supports Connico’s reputation for precision, trust, and excellence, and I take pride in contributing to that standard every day. I am especially proud of the team of electrical estimators I helped assemble. Building a strong, knowledgeable, and collaborative team has been one of the most rewarding parts of my role. Together, we’ve strengthened Connico’s capabilities in electrical estimating to help clients make informed decisions and keep projects on track.  

What excites you most about the work we do in aviation and infrastructure? 

The real, lasting impact our work has on the clients and communities we serve. We’re relied upon to be trusted advisors, and the information we provide directly supports their facilities, operations, and long-term planning. It’s rewarding to know that the guidance we offer can shape future airports and ultimately enhance the travel experience for thousands – even millions – of people. 

What’s your favorite way to get involved in your community or give back? 

I love contributing to my community while staying connected to the heritage of Fernandina Beach. Since moving to Amelia Island, I’ve supported the Amelia Community Theater, the Little Free Library system, and the local events held by the Fernandina Beach Pirates. 

Before residing in Fernandina Beach, my wife and I were honored with the coveted “Citizens of the Year” title in Hickory Creek, Texas, for our active community involvement. We helped launch the town’s inaugural multi-day fundraising event, the Dub Fest, which involved coordinating live entertainment, event permits, vendors, scheduling and staging, traffic control, and volunteers’ schedules – all to ensure the event was a fun, family-friendly success. Additionally, when the town ended funding for its public library, my wife and I established the community’s first Little Free Library to provide the public with continued access to free reading materials. 

What is the best career advice you’ve received or a lesson you’ve learned so far? 

Success multiplies when you equip others to carry your work forward. Whether it's your first day on the job or you’re in a leadership role, investing in the development of those who work with you is essential. It's not just about delegating tasks; it's about building a team that’s capable, confident, and prepared to grow with or without you.  

Who is someone in the industry you admire and why?  

While many might choose someone with a high-profile title or a well-known presence in the industry, the person I admire most is Andrew Skidmore, a cost specialist here at Connico. What stands out about Andrew is his genuine and consistent curiosity to know more about every aspect of the work we do. But what inspires me most is his resilience; despite any challenge or setback, he approaches work with a positive attitude and unwavering determination. His example has taught me a lot about perseverance and maintaining a growth mindset for long-term success. 

How would you describe Connico’s culture in one word, and why? 

If I had to describe Connico’s culture in one word (or phrase), it would be sui generis, a term that means “of its own kind” or truly one of a kind. Connico doesn’t fit the mold of a typical consultancy, and that’s exactly what makes it special. This combination of diverse expertise, genuine collaboration, and a shared commitment to innovation creates a culture that stands apart in the industry. It’s a place that values individuality, welcomes ideas, and empowers people to lead and grow in every role. 

Which Connico core value resonates most with you and why?  

Integrity. I believe in always doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Integrity builds trust, not just with clients, but within our team. That trust is the foundation for strong relationships and helps to ensure the work we do is honest and grounded in accountability. 

Share a moment where you felt especially proud to be part of the Connico team. 

I felt especially proud to be part of the Connico team after speaking at the AAAE/SEC Annual Conference. Connico doesn’t just attend industry conferences; we actively contribute to them by sharing our expertise and giving our team members a platform to lead. Our company’s presence at such a respected event reinforces our commitment to shaping the future of aviation and infrastructure, and I was honored to participate. It was also a reflection of Connico’s belief in empowering emerging voices and encouraging professional growth at every level. Representing the team on that stage was an experience I’ll never forget. 

Tell us about a home restoration or woodworking project you’re proud of.  

Home restoration is a hobby of mine that I truly enjoy, and one of the projects I’m most proud of is the transformation of the house where my family currently lives. At the start, people probably thought I was crazy for taking it on (to be honest, there were moments when I questioned it myself). But my wife had the vision, and I had the skills – and together, we brought new life to a mid-century modern home that many had overlooked. It was a labor of love, and the end result has been incredibly rewarding.