Courtney Christopher
Courtney Christopher is a dedicated Materials Management Supervisor at Salt River Project, where she oversees one of the company’s key warehouses. With over a decade of experience at SRP, Courtney has built a career that spans office administration, trades work, and leadership roles. She began her journey in 2015 in office and records management, leveraging prior experience in the medical field, and quickly transitioned into a trades helper role, entering a male-dominated environment and gaining hands-on knowledge in substation operations.
Demonstrating exceptional commitment and perseverance, Courtney accepted an apprenticeship to become a Substation Journeyman Electrician while six months pregnant. Over four years, she completed 8,000 hours of rigorous training while raising a newborn and two other children, ultimately earning her journeyman certification. Her technical expertise includes DC & AC electrical theory, power transmission and distribution, and mastery of tools, heavy equipment, and safety procedures. After several years as a journeyman, she transitioned into materials management, where she applies her leadership and organizational skills to optimize warehouse operations and implement strategic initiatives.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Courtney is passionate about supporting women in trades and leadership. She founded and chairs Delta Connected, an employee resource group aimed at mentoring and building relationships with women pursuing male-dominated careers. She has also earned a Bachelor’s in Business Leadership from The University of Arizona Global Campus and is pursuing further studies in Organizational Management. Courtney’s philosophy centers on clear communication, resilience, and creating pathways for others to succeed while balancing a thriving family life with five children.
• CPR
• Electrical Journeyman
• The University of Arizona Global Campus - B.B.A.
• Delta Connected (Chair)
• Salvation Army (Christmas time)
• Arizona Humane Society
• Banner Children's Hospital (paycheck donations)
• Phoenix Children's Hospital (paycheck donations)
• Helping Hands
• Helping Mothers
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to mindset and perseverance. During my apprenticeship, I was the first female substation electrician in nearly 20 years, and initially faced skepticism from crews who doubted women could succeed in this field. I worked hard to prove my abilities, and by the end, earned their respect and acknowledgment that performance matters more than assumptions.
Having a strong support system at work and at home, maintaining work-life balance, and prioritizing clear communication have also been key to my success.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is: if you’re not uncomfortable, you’re not growing. I’ve taken that to heart by deliberately putting myself in challenging situations, knowing that it’s where I grow, learn, and truly flourish.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering this industry that success is entirely achievable. I navigated a male-dominated field while raising a family, and it’s possible if you’re passionate and committed. Focus on your goals, set clear intentions, and don’t let anyone else’s opinions define what you can achieve. Show up every day with the mindset that there are no roadblocks—only challenges to overcome—and never let societal expectations limit your potential.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in a male-dominated industry has been earning respect and being valued for my abilities. During my apprenticeship, I was the first female substation electrician in about 20 years, and initially, many crews were hesitant to have me join them. I had to work extra hard to prove that I was capable, but through perseverance, determination, and grit, I was able to overcome these barriers.
As for opportunities, starting Delta Connected and serving as chair of the committee has been incredibly rewarding. It allows me to share my experiences, connect with other women in the utility, and support those pursuing similar paths. Through networking, apprenticeships, ride-alongs, and mentorship, I’m able to provide guidance and resources to help others achieve their career goals.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are communication, support, and balance. Having a strong support system at work and at home is essential—especially for women balancing family responsibilities—and maintaining work-life balance is critical. I also value breaking barriers and challenging the status quo. I want to demonstrate that women are fully capable of thriving in these roles and to show my daughter, who will be 18 this year, that there are no limits to what she can achieve. Family is at the core of who I am, and these values guide both my personal and professional life.
Locations
Salt River Project
Queen Creek, AZ 85142