Kim Starkey

Title: Regional Director (Coastal Region)

Company you work for: Service Experts

Educational Experience: Starkey studied accounting and business management at Clayton State in Georgia.

Industry Work Experience: I got my start in the HVAC industry in 2002 when I was still a college student looking for part-time work. In between classes, I worked in the dispatch and quality control department at Valentine Service Experts in Atlanta. When this center merged with another, Peachtree Service Experts, I became production manager. For the next 10 years, I served in leadership roles before becoming the branch manager for one of the three Peachtree locations. During my time in this role, the center’s revenue grew from $1.3 million in 2017 to $2.3 million in 2018. I then became the general manager at Ocala Service Experts and later Pardee Service Experts, two positions that led to me serving in my current role as regional director for the coastal region of Service Experts. As regional director, I oversee six centers and lead a team of 400 employees.

What caused you to/when did you enter the HVACR industry?

Honestly, it was pure luck. I got a job in this industry when I was in college and never left. I’m glad I got that first job.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of working in HVACR?

Being able to interact with so many different types of people. Over the years, I’ve met thousands of customers, and I’ve been able to learn so much about different cultures.

Describe the proudest moment in your career.

I would say the proudest moment was during my first year as a general manager, when I received Service Experts’ prestigious President’s Club award. The award recognizes outstanding center performance, and it was really an honor to receive that after just one year in the role.

What challenges do women face in this profession? Can you give a personal example?

I think a challenge that all women face is finding the balance between our personal and professional lives. For me, working for Service Experts has given me the flexibility to both be a mom and have a career. It’s always a balancing act, but I think women have a unique, innate ability to multi-task.

How can we increase the number of women in HVACR?

During my time in this industry, I think we’ve done a really good job of adding more women across different fields. Women don’t always think about HVACR, but it’s an industry that needs good leaders just like any other. I think women possess invaluable leadership qualities, so I encourage any female to join this industry and hone those skills.

What does your day-to-day job entail?

As a regional director, I travel to all of my centers at least once a month. That being said, no two days are the same. I’m often working with general managers and other frontline leaders to drive sales activity and control costs, as well as review safety procedures and improve day-to-day operations. But I also make it a priority to get out into the field with technicians and our sales teams as often as I can.

What remains on your HVACR bucket list — what do you aspire to do that you haven’t accomplished yet?

I would love to win the Region of the Year award at Service Experts.

What advice do you have for women who are considering a career in HVACR?

Just do it! This industry is fast-paced, and you’ll learn something new every day. It’s been a great way for me to support my family, meet lifelong friends, and challenge myself in new ways.