Meet Chris: Strengthening NexGen's Presence in the Northeast

[Forest, VA] - March 31st, 2026

At NexGen Utility Sales, we’re always looking to deepen relationships and expand our impact across the regions we serve. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Chris Kent, our newest Utility Sales Consultant focused on the Northeast - bringing 15+ years of experience in the utility industry.

Built on Curiosity-and a First-Generation View of Technology

Chris’s interest in the electrical and utility industry didn’t happen by accident, it started early.

Growing up in New Jersey, Chris was influenced by his father, who worked as a data storage technician back when data was stored on magnetic tape reels - what we’d now consider the earliest form of data centers. That curiosity eventually led Chris into the utility space in an unexpected way - through a simple Craigslist job posting. But what started as a vague opportunity quickly turned into something much more.

“On my first day, I ended up in a pretty high-level conversation with an engineer about surge protection. That’s when it clicked - this industry is full of incredibly smart people doing really interesting things.”

From that moment on, he knew he wanted to build a career working with utilities.

15 Years of Experience Across the Northeast Grid

Chris brings a strong educational and professional foundation to NexGen. He graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in Environmental & Business Economics - giving him a unique lens on both infrastructure and market dynamics.

Over the past 15 years, he’s built his career as a manufacturers’ representative specializing in transmission and distribution equipment.

His experience spans:

• Investor-owned utilities (IOUs), municipals, and cooperatives

• A geographic footprint from Washington, D.C. to Maine

• Close collaboration with distributors, EPCs, consultants, and contractors

While he’s worked across the broader Northeast, his core focus has always been in New Jersey and New York - relationships he continues to build on today.

Driving Growth with a Local Presence in New Jersey and New York

At NexGen, Chris steps into the role of Utility Sales Consultant – Northeast, where he will focus heavily on strengthening relationships and expanding opportunities with PSEG and surrounding utilities.

His goal is simple: bring a strong, consistent, local presence to better serve customers and partners.

"I’m looking forward to building on past relationships and helping guide new opportunities for NexGen.”

With deep familiarity in how large Northeastern IOUs operate, Chris brings valuable insight into navigating complex projects, aligning stakeholders, and moving initiatives forward efficiently.

A Mindset Built Around Problem-Solving and Relationships

What sets Chris apart isn’t just experience - it’s how he approaches challenges.

He thrives in collaborative environments where problems aren’t roadblocks, but opportunities. “When a problem comes up, I don’t get frustrated - I get excited. It’s a chance to work together, solve something complex, and build a stronger relationship in the process.”

That mindset aligns closely with NexGen’s relationship-driven, solutions-focused approach. In an industry where trust and execution matter, those shared experiences - especially overcoming challenges - are what create long-term partnerships.

He also finds purpose in the bigger picture:

“The modern electrical grid is an incredible thing. Being part of something that helps power and advance society is really fulfilling.”

Outside the Office: Building, Investing, and a Love-Hate Relationship with Golf

Outside of work, Chris enjoys staying hands-on and working on projects - whether that’s repairing equipment, building something from scratch, or machining precision parts.

He’s even operated his own personal machine shop, where he spent time milling and turning raw materials into finished components.

“There’s something fascinating about taking solid metal and turning it into something precise and functional. Not many people get to experience that.”

He also has a strong interest in financial markets, driven by both personal curiosity and his background in economics. Whether it’s tracking trends or debating market movements with family members in finance, he enjoys understanding how global factors influence markets.

And like many in the industry, he’s also a golfer - realistically self-aware about it, too.

“I won’t say I’m great - but if I can hold my own, I’m happy. All it takes is one or two perfect shots to bring you right back.”

Looking Ahead

With Chris joining the team, NexGen continues to strengthen its footprint across the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast utility markets, bringing even more local expertise, industry knowledge, and relationship-driven support to our partners.

We’re excited to see the impact he’ll make - and even more excited for the relationships and results ahead.

Serving Utilities Across the Northeast

If you're a utility, EPC, or contractor in New Jersey or the broader Northeast looking for support with transmission & distribution equipment, grid modernization, or engineered solutions, connect with the NexGen team to learn more.

sales@nexgenreps.com

Chris Kent - Utility Sales Consultant