Stay Plugged In: How Kameale Terry is Revolutionizing EV Charger Maintenance with ChargerHelp!

In the latest episode of talktechto.me, hosted by Cassie Betts on KBLA Talk 1580, tech enthusiasts tuned in for an inspiring conversation with Kameale Terry, co-founder, and CEO of ChargerHelp!. Terry’s company has emerged as a leader in addressing the challenges of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, especially the maintenance issues that often go unspoken. This episode, titled "Stay Plugged In: Kameale Terry on Revolutionizing EV Maintenance," took listeners through Terry’s journey, her company’s impact, and the future of the EV maintenance industry.

From South Central LA to EV Charging Innovation

A native of South Central Los Angeles, Kameale Terry has not only carved a place for herself in the tech industry but has also become a trailblazer for underrepresented groups in the field. With a mission-driven approach, Terry co-founded ChargerHelp! in 2020 to tackle the problem of inoperable EV chargers, a barrier for many potential EV owners. Since its inception, the company has raised over $21 million and operates across 17 states, providing solutions to keep EV stations functional and accessible.

As Betts highlighted in the episode, Terry’s journey is an inspiring example of breaking barriers as a Black female tech leader. Her commitment extends beyond the technology itself; she's also creating high-quality jobs and empowering the local community.

EV Charging: The Challenges of Reliability

The EV industry is growing rapidly, but maintenance of EV charging stations remains a crucial challenge. Terry discussed findings from ChargerHelp!’s "Annual Reliability Report: The State of EV Charging and the Driver Experience," which provides insights into common issues drivers face. Terms like "ghost chargers," "zombie stations," and "dead-end chargers" represent persistent issues in the field. ChargerHelp!'s unique "Reliability as a Service" (RaaS) solution, powered by EMPWR, offers a proactive approach to maintaining these stations, utilizing data analytics and machine learning for predictive maintenance.

The Role of EVSE Technicians

A significant part of ChargerHelp!’s success comes from the development of a new role: the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Technician. EVSE Technicians ensure the functionality of EV stations, a critical job as electric vehicles become more popular. Through partnerships with organizations like the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and the Department of Labor, ChargerHelp! has helped establish certifications and training for these roles, offering high-paying opportunities and creating a reliable workforce for this emerging industry.

Raising Capital and Building Partnerships

One of the most valuable segments of the episode covered Terry’s success in securing over $21 million in funding and her tips for entrepreneurs. She emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships, especially for startups in emerging fields. Through collaborations with industry leaders and continuous engagement with organizations, ChargerHelp! has been able to build credibility and a strong reputation in the EV sector.

Leveraging Data Analytics and Machine Learning

Data analytics and machine learning are at the heart of ChargerHelp!’s mission. Terry explained how these technologies help the company provide more reliable charging solutions. By analyzing data from EV stations, ChargerHelp! can predict issues before they arise, ultimately improving both customer and business outcomes.

Community Impact and Future Vision

ChargerHelp! is opening a new location in South LA, which will create more opportunities for local residents. Terry shared a closing message for aspiring tech innovators, emphasizing the importance of resilience and community support. Her vision for ChargerHelp! is not only to provide a sustainable EV charging solution but also to make a positive impact on the local economy.

A Final Call to Action

For listeners interested in connecting with Kameale Terry, Betts encouraged them to follow her on social media and to check out ChargerHelp!'s website. The episode wrapped up with a teaser for the next week’s guest, Tiffany Gerrard, known as "The AI Chic," promising more insights into the intersection of technology and culture.

As EV adoption accelerates, innovators like Kameale Terry and companies like ChargerHelp! are essential to addressing infrastructure gaps, creating jobs, and inspiring a new generation of tech leaders from all backgrounds.