Amber Connor
Amber Connor is an emerging leader in the electric vehicle (EV) industry whose career journey reflects both resilience and a deep passion for innovation. What began as a high school interest in electric vehicles—sparked by concerns about environmental impact—came full circle years later when she was introduced to Tesla while working as a wine host in Austin, Texas. Despite initially lacking a background in automotive or technology, she took a leap of faith and began her career as a service advisor. Her curiosity, determination, and passion quickly set her apart, opening the door to new opportunities within the rapidly evolving EV space. During her time at Tesla, Amber played a key role on a regional beta team focused on remote diagnostics, where she helped develop processes, standard operating procedures, and service readiness strategies from the ground up. Over four years, she contributed to shaping how vehicles were diagnosed and prepared for service, while also serving as a corporate trainer, traveling to support and educate front-of-house teams. Her ability to connect technical knowledge with real-world application—and to support both teams and customers—became a defining strength throughout her career. Today, Amber continues to expand her impact in the EV industry through her work with Smart Charge America, where she focuses on electric vehicle charging infrastructure. She holds a Texas electrician apprentice license and an EVSE AC certification and is actively pursuing Tesla certification as well as advanced credentials in DC charging. With a long-term goal of moving into project management, she brings a unique “trifecta” approach to her work—balancing the needs of the company, the customer, and the technician. Known for her authenticity and leadership, Amber is also passionate about creating supportive, stigma-free workplaces where individuals feel empowered to learn, ask questions, and grow alongside an ever-changing industry.
• EVSE AC certification
• Texas electrician's apprentice license
• Tesla certification (in progress)
• Seminole State College of Florida
• Department of business regulations real estate.
Real estate license
• ChargePoint University
• Gateway Church
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to determination and the fact that I really care about what I do.. Also my ability to balance the needs of everyone involved, what I call the trifecta, has been key. I consider what's best for the company, the customer, and the technician, and I'm able to stitch that together very well. That approach has given me a lot of success in this field.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is you have to be able to hear the feedback without taking it as a personal attack. That perspective has really helped me in my career, especially in an industry where I sometimes have to work harder to be taken seriously. It's allowed me to focus on learning and growing rather than getting knocked down by setbacks.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to remember that everyone is held to the same contract, whether you're male, female, or whatever. People have to do their jobs, and you have a right to hold them accountable. It's okay to be persistent in getting what you need.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I face in this field is being taken seriously as a woman, particularly in environments where strong personalities and egos can sometimes dominate. Navigating those dynamics while maintaining professionalism and mutual respect requires confidence, consistency, and a strong sense of self. I’ve learned the importance of standing firm in my knowledge and capabilities while also fostering collaborative relationships that move the work forward.
At the same time, there are incredible opportunities within the electric vehicle industry, especially in the growth of charging infrastructure. The expansion of DC fast charging, in particular, is creating demand for larger-scale projects and more advanced technical expertise. This opens the door for roles in project management and leadership, which is where I see my career continuing to evolve. I’m excited to be part of an industry that is not only growing rapidly but also shaping the future of energy and transportation.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are honesty, integrity, empathy, and kindness. I believe strongly in removing stigma and toxicity from the workplace. I don't want people to be afraid to ask for education or come to me for help. I'd rather work in an environment of freedom where it's okay to look stupid or not know something, because this is an industry that's continually changing. Not everybody is going to know everything, and you don't look stupid if you don't know it. Creating that kind of supportive, judgment-free environment where people can learn and grow is really important to me, both professionally and personally.
Locations
Smart Charge America
Austin, TX 78728