“Always be open and willing to listen.”
With over 35 years of experience in operations management and fire and life safety systems, Charles Harkness stands as a distinguished leader in a mission-critical industry where every detail matters—and every life depends on it. Rooted in a steadfast dedication to safety, innovation, and operational excellence, Charles’s journey from technician to executive exemplifies resilience, continuous growth, and the irreplaceable value of expertise honed in the field. He has navigated the complexities of infrastructure protection, project management, and team leadership across diverse environments, driving measurable impact and transformation along the way.
Charles’s professional journey began not with a predetermined plan, but rather with a serendipitous introduction to the fire protection industry—one that quickly evolved into a lifelong passion. Sparked by the tragic 1980 MGM Grand fire in Las Vegas, Charles became deeply committed to ensuring that such preventable loss would never go unchallenged. His early hands-on experience laid the groundwork for a career marked by increasing responsibility, operational scope, and industry influence.
At ORR Protection, Charles serves as the Western Regional Project Manager, leading multimillion-dollar fire and life safety system installations across some of the most critical infrastructure landscapes in North America. From power generation plants to hyperscale data centers for global tech titans like Microsoft and Verizon, Charles ensures system integrity, operational efficiency, and compliance with evolving safety standards. Managing operations across four major regional branches, he brings together technical expertise and project leadership to protect both assets and lives.
Previously, Charles held a pivotal role as Director of Field Operations at Telgian Corp, where he led a mid-sized national team responsible for inspection, testing, and repair services. Over an eight-year tenure, he managed an $11M budget and implemented a suite of strategic initiatives that redefined team performance, reduced operational costs, and elevated customer experience. His forward-thinking leadership led to the development of a groundbreaking tele-inspection product, enabling the company to cut travel expenses and broaden its service delivery model.
Charles’s leadership ethos is grounded in team development and empowerment. As a field operations manager, he championed training programs, apprentice initiatives, and performance auditing systems that brought clarity, structure, and inspiration to his teams. His efforts consistently translated into increased employee retention, elevated productivity, and greater client satisfaction—hallmarks of his people-first leadership style.
His certifications underscore the technical acumen that anchors his strategic decision-making. Charles is a Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS), holds credentials from Procore Technologies, and is licensed in both Fire Alarm and Sprinkler Systems in Nevada. His commitment to professional development includes rigorous coursework through the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies and Oklahoma State University, equipping him with the depth of knowledge necessary for high-stakes leadership in fire life safety.
Charles’s industry influence extends beyond organizational borders. As an active member of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and an alternate on the NFPA-25 technical committee, he contributes to shaping the very codes and standards that govern inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based systems. Additionally, he serves on the AFAA’s technical committee, reinforcing his reputation as a trusted voice in fire protection at the national level.
His impact is further amplified by his role in shaping safety culture in emerging fields such as battery energy storage systems, where fire risk mitigation and infrastructure planning intersect with evolving regulatory frameworks. Charles stays on the front lines of technological innovation, ensuring that modern systems are not only efficient but uncompromisingly safe.
Outside the professional realm, Charles is a devoted family man with a passion for classic cars, fishing, and sports—pursuits that speak to his appreciation for craftsmanship, patience, and precision. These values translate seamlessly into his work, where no challenge is too complex, and every detail has the power to make a difference.
Ultimately, Charles’s career is a testament to a guiding principle: to remain open and willing to listen. This mindset has not only shaped his leadership style but also fueled his success in roles that demand both technical mastery and interpersonal intelligence. With his eyes set on board service, Charles is ready to bring his unmatched experience, lifelong dedication, and unwavering integrity to organizations poised to make a difference.
Character:
Charles’s character is marked by humility, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose. His commitment to public safety is not just professional—it is personal, driving him to lead with compassion and conviction in every endeavor.
Knowledge:
Backed by more than three decades of experience and industry-recognized certifications, Charles possesses a comprehensive understanding of fire protection systems, operational leadership, and regulatory compliance. His expertise allows him to lead multimillion-dollar projects with precision and authority.
Strategic:
Charles combines operational insight with long-term vision, continuously aligning day-to-day activities with overarching organizational goals. His ability to identify cost-saving opportunities and implement scalable solutions has consistently delivered value across large and complex operations.
Communication:
Whether addressing executive leadership, mentoring frontline technicians, or collaborating with regulatory bodies, Charles communicates with clarity, respect, and confidence. His openness to listen ensures that every voice is heard and every solution is well-informed.
