Sound Electric’s Korrie O’Donnell working on an island dock. PHOTO PROVIDED

Master electrician Korrie O’Donnell opened Sound Electric in St. James City in May of this year. She’s been in the electrical field for many years, although it all began for her when she was only 27. She bought a house that had old, knob and tube wiring. Being young and broke, she said, left her no choice but to re-wire the house herself.

“That’s how I got started. I rewired that house and someone that helped me said you should probably put your application in and the apprenticeship called and they accepted me,” O’Donnell said.

Although only in her 20s, O’Donnell said it was a late start for an electrician. What she loves about the field, she said, is the diversity that comes with it, as no two jobs are the same. When no one else seems to be able to figure out a solution to a problem, she enjoys being the diagnostician.

“There’s always a challenge, and that’s what I absolutely love about the trade,” she said.

Being on Pine Island for five years has lent itself a great deal to O’Donnell’s appreciation for her particular line of work. What makes the island a really special place to her is the people, she said, adding that working for the islanders is like a dream come true to her.

“Dock work is what I really specialize in. I love working on these docks, because you never know if a dolphin is going to come up and splash you — if you’re going to see a gigantic sheepshead. It’s just great,” O’Donnell said.

Working as a female in a predominantly male field, O’Donnell said she gets much praise, however she feels everything should be based on merit and is grateful for the response islanders have had toward her.

“All you have to really do is be up front, be prompt, you know, show up on time and you really can’t lose — all you have to do is really just the basic things that everyone should do,” O’Donnell said.

In looking forward, plans for Sound Electric is having an island business, she said, as she is intent on keeping things local as much as possible.

“The future for me is here in St. James, Matlacha, Captiva, Sanibel — all the barrier islands. I’m really not trying to branch out and go state-wide. We’re just going to really try to service the island and do the best we can to keep our work here locally. I’m up front, I’m accountable and looking forward to servicing this island,” O’Donnell said.

Sound Electric is located at 3167 Stringfellow Road, St. James City. For additional information, call 863-558-3939.

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