B A Electric Inc.

James Parker: Wired for Success

By Matt Solis, Editor

James Parker’s path to the electrical trade began when he was just 12 years old. “My uncle was an electrician and I used to work with him during the summers,” he recalls. “By the time I was 16, I was working with him full-time. I started with simple tasks like cleaning trucks and organizing tools, but I was running my own jobs just two years later.”

In 2010, James decided to strike out on his own and established B A Electric Inc. Today, he says his favorite part of his job is solving problems for customers and helping them improve their electrical situations. “I also really like doing lighting retrofits because we’re able to change the entire look of a room, which people always appreciate.”

James has deep roots in the Bay Area, particularly in the Rohnert Park/Cotati region. “I was born in Fresno but we moved to Sonoma County when I was a few months old, after my dad got out of the military,” he explains. “My parents were both raised in the area, though, so our family has been here since Rohnert Park was barely developed. I love it here—the weather is amazing and I know a lot of people.”

Outside of work, James enjoys riding motorcycles (both on- and off-road), watching movies, trying new restaurants and spending time with his two adult sons. “My oldest, James Jr., is a real estate agent in Cotati, and my youngest is a photographer who travels the country covering rock climbing competitions. They’re pretty busy, but we like going on vacations together and having family dinners and game nights when we get the chance.”

In terms of a personal or professional philosophy, James emphasizes the importance of the Golden Rule. “I try to treat people how I would want to be treated,” he affirms. “I think that mentality just makes you a nicer person overall, which is important to me.”

When asked what his life might look like if he could retire tomorrow, James says he would take the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream. “My goal has always been to buy a house in Mexico and move down there, so if I retired tomorrow, that’s where I would start.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s your favorite movie genre?

A: I like comedies from the ’90s and early 2000s, like Adam Sandler movies.

Q: If you could immediately travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

A: Ireland. My great grandparents on my mom’s side are from there and I’ve always wanted to visit. 

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?

A: Stark’s Steak & Seafood in Santa Rosa. 

Q: If you could ride any motorcycle, what would it be?

A: Well, the 2006 Harley-Davidson Street Glide that I currently have is my all-time favorite bike, but I would also love to ride a new Harley Road Glide.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?

A: Watch TV at home and make split pea soup.