Employee Highlight – James Carlin

James Carlin

Project Development Associate

Give us a brief overview of your role.

I'm a Project Development Associate, which means I support projects through the permitting process. The work varies significantly from project to project, meaning that each day and each project is different and comes with its own unique story. Most days include trouble shooting, coordinating with consultants, collaborating with local government, and community outreach. While the work can be challenging, it's also very rewarding to see a project progress through each stage and successfully cross the finish line.

What is the most memorable moment you have had working for GSI?

The most memorable moment I've had while working at GSI was the final SUP permit hearing for Hayes Solar. Our team invested so much time and effort into the project, despite a sometimes difficult path to completion. That final board meeting was an inspirational and motivating victory.

What led you to a career in project development and what have you found rewarding from working in the renewables sector?

I've always been motivated to work in sustainability, which led me to pursue my bachelor's in environmental biology and gain experience in county level environmental permitting and sustainability program coordination. When I came across this role, it represented exactly what I was looking for, the opportunity to create a more sustainable world while positively impacting communities. It is incredibly rewarding to be part of projects that have a tangible, positive environmental impact.

Tell us one interesting fact about yourself that your colleagues might not know.

I love traveling, especially to national parks and have visited several across the United States, including Arches, Zion, the Grand Canyon, and Yosemite. In Canada, I've explored Shannon Falls and the Niagara Falls. Of the national parks, Yellowstone is my favorite, and internationally, the farthest I've traveled is Shanghai, China.

How do you spend your time outside of work?

I spend my free time staying active and enjoying several hobbies, including nature walks, going to the gym, roller skating, and fostering cats. I also enjoy going out with friends, whether that's exploring the city, visiting museums, trying out new restaurants, or biking along the lakefront.

What is one thing you'd like to cross off your bucket list?

I would love to go wind surfing. It's something I've been wanting to try for a while, and I'm hoping to cross it off my bucket list this summer.

Rapid Fire Favorites

• Movie: Any Star Wars movie
• TV Show: The Midnight Club
• Book: Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
• Musician/Band: Silversun Pickups or Death Cab for Cutie
• Restaurant (City): The Chicago Diner
• Food: Donuts or any kind of fruit
• City/Region: Chicago