Meet our Solar Power Installers & the rest of our team
Everyone at First Choice Solar Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Fraser Coast is working toward the same goal: empowering communities with sustainable energy options while helping them save on costs.
Founded in 2010 on the Gold Coast, our solar power installation company has enjoyed continuous growth and expansion, and we’re just getting started. Learn more about the people that form part of our dedicated team.
Management
Peter Berkers
Founder/Director
Pete is the visionary founder and cornerstone of First Choice Solar, which he established in 2010. His motivation to start the business way back when stemmed from an unwavering need to help build a greener tomorrow for all, whilst simultaneously helping people (like saving them money!).
These fundamental principles remain at the core of the company values still today. Pete's wealth of knowledge and expertise gained from over 30 years running businesses and working as an electrician within the electrical industry has been fundamental to the continued growth First Choice Solar has enjoyed over the last decade.
Pete's role involves overseeing all the business operations and diving into business development occasionally, too. However, his favorite part of his position is team mentoring. He thrives in guiding and nurturing the next generation of renewables professionals, sharing his extensive experience and insights, and helping them to grow.
He lives, alongside his business partner Matt, by the mantra, "the teacher arrives when the student is ready," a philosophy reflecting readiness and openness as crucial for meaningful learning or growth to take place. This mantra heavily influences his mindset upon his life journey, both personally and professionally.
Outside of work
Pete enjoys life's simple pleasures outside of work, prioritising quality time with his family. Traveling with his wife and spending time with his children and grandchildren are his greatest joys.
An advocate for balance in life to support mental and physical health, Pete ends most of his workdays with a long, wistful walk before relaxing on the couch, or indulging in his boundless passion for sports, especially footy. His dedication to rugby is well-known amongst his colleagues, friends, and the community, with his past involvement in coaching and managing his children's junior sports teams.
Today, Pete continues giving back through First Choice Solar, sponsoring local junior and senior footy clubs and spearheading community projects. His dedication to his family and community highlights the core driving values behind the man himself which helped him build one of the best solar power companies in operation today.
Matt McKinley
Owner/Director
Matt joined the residential and commercial solar power company over a decade ago, fuelled by a deep-rooted passion for renewables and visions about the industry's potential growth. He brought with him a wealth of expertise: a knowledgeable sparky, and fully accredited designer/installer of solar and battery solutions with an obsession for customer service.
He now uses all these skills and more to run the ever-growing, successful First Choice Solar. Matt thrives in helping homeowners and businesses achieve their clean energy goals, always aiming to exceed the expectations of those who deal with him.
He is dedicated to supporting the wider community, too, with charitable initiatives. And, like any great leader, he understands that the strength of any organisation lies in its people, so he nurtures a culture of trust, respect, and collaboration within his company, prioritising a happy, safe, and enjoyable working environment for all.
Guided by the mantra, "The teacher appears when the student is ready," he remains committed to lifelong learning and personal growth, embracing every opportunity for self-improvement. He champions a culture of continuous learning and development with his active involvement in industry events and educational opportunities, ensuring he and his team always stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving renewables industry.
Outside of work
Matt spends most of his time out of the office with his loving wife and children, watching his NRL favorites, the Sea Eagles, or out fishing on his boat.
Returning home from a busy day at the office, he slips quickly into dad/husband mode, cooking up the family dinner himself before putting the tribe to bed. He then finds solace in casting a line off the boat out on the creek, relishing in a reflective moment of peace and quiet.
On his bucket list is a seven-day fishing expedition to the Tiwi Islands in the beautiful Arafura Sea just north of Darwin. And amid a sea of professional accomplishments and community contributions, Matt's greatest accomplishment, either professionally or personally, with pride, remains his four beautiful boys, who serve as a daily reminder to him of his purpose in life.
Operations
Bobby
Operations
Bobby, First Choice Solar's maestro of sales and operations, has been orchestrating out of our Burleigh Heads and Sunshine Coast solar factories/showrooms for over six years now. He found in the company the fun work environment and promise of growth that he had long been searching for.
When he's not managing the ins and outs of our solar company, he’s spending time with family and friends, hitting the waves for a surf, or practicing his swing at the local golf course.
Lurking behind the operational and organised front, Bobby's secret skill is as a noteworthy musician. One of his greatest achievements to date was performing at the Gold Coast's premier entertainment venue, The Playhouse. He aspires to one day release his own album.
Keagan
Accounts and Administration
Keagan has been the beating heart of the First Choice Solar family for the past three years, running our accounts and administration department.
Drawn to our company by its longstanding reputation as a family-run business, Keagan sought a work community where she could really ingrain herself and develop. Keagan thrives in the hustle and bustle of busy days, finding fulfillment in their friendly interactions with her colleagues and the variety of tasks that come her way.
Keagan loves spending quality time with her family and friends and unwinding with a little Netflix binge session. With a world of adventures waiting to be explored, Keagan's ultimate bucket list item is to embark on a trip around the world, soaking in the sights and sounds of different cultures from across the globe.
Kristina
Administrator
Kristina is an administrator who forms part of First Choice Solar's backbone. With two years of service under her belt, she initially joined our team with a deep desire to delve into the local solar installation industry.
Driven by the opportunity to expand her skill set and gain valuable insights from a reputable solar power company, what Kristina appreciates most about our company is the working environment, where teamwork and collaboration are not only encouraged but celebrated.
When she’s not at work, she finds joy in spending time with her beloved family, indulging in a quiet glass of red with the occasional netflix binge or taking some me time with a Pilates session. She holds immense pride in her ability to juggle the responsibilities of being a mum and a dedicated worker, showcasing her resilience and determination in every aspect of her life. Kristina's sights are set on purchasing her first home soon.
Solar Power Installers and Roofers
Warren
Electrician / Solar Installer
Warren is a lead electrician and solar system installer with a rich background in the renewables industry. Initially attracted to First Choice Solar for its strong reputation and emphasis on teamwork, Warren deeply values the collaborative spirit and mateship that exists when working alongside a dedicated crew. Whether he's tackling complex technical issues or mentoring fellow team members, Warren is always ready to offer his expertise and support, making him an integral part of the team.
After a busy day, Warren shifts his focus to family time and getting outdoors. He’s passionate about being active, being outside, and spending quality time with his loved ones— and, of course, watching English football too - he never misses a match. With a bold sense of adventure, Warren has set his sights on conquering Mount Everest one day, reflecting his drive and determination in all aspects of life.
Jake
Electrician / Solar Installer
Jake is our seasoned electrician with an impressive 14 years of tenure at First Choice Solar. He joined our team as an apprentice, which he completed long ago, continuing on as a valuable residential and commercial solar installer and acting as extremely knowledgeable senior support for the newer members of the team.
He enjoys the ever-changing landscape of the industry and the challenges it provides. Off the clock, you can find Jake at the gym, spending quality time with his family or taking his beloved pup for a walk.
Rugby league is his sport of choice, and he attends or watches matches at every opportunity. His proudest achievement? Completing his apprenticeship and forging a successful career as a certified solar system installer.
Looking ahead, Jake's goal is to secure his first home.
Nick
Electrician / Solar Installer
Nick, our highly skilled electrician, has been weaving his electrical magic with First Choice Solar for several years now. When he moved to the Coast a few years back, he was offered a position on the team, which he gratefully accepted as he had long wanted to work for a family-run business.
He loves the variance in the different types of solar installation jobs he gets to work on and enjoys working outdoors in the sun.
Beyond carrying out solar power installation, Nick is an avid beachgoer, footy fan, and gym enthusiast. For him, relaxation is a cheeky little ocean swim.
He is a proud pro member of the Burleigh Bears hostplus cup and commendably played in NRL trials for Sydney Roosters and the New Castle Knights.
Nick's love for snowboarding drives his aspiration to go boarding the slopes of Japan one day.
Jack
Solar Installer
Jack has been a dedicated member of First Choice Solar for over five years.
Way back, he decided this was the Gold Coast solar company for him when searching for new opportunities and skills to learn. The banter and collaboration with the team drawing him in, these remain the favourite parts of his role today.
Off the clock, Jack loves spending quality time with his family and friends, watching some League or heading off for a long run or gym session.
Jack is proud of the progression he’s made so far in his career and the valuable skills he has (and keeps!) acquired along the way.
Looking ahead, traveling to more countries is top of his to-do list.
Seb
Roofer
Seb, our resident roofer extraordinaire, has been a proud member of the First Choice Solar family for some time now, drawn to our solar installation company by the promise of consistent work, Seb has quickly become an integral part of our tight-knit team.
Seb loves the camaraderie and laughs he shares with his fellow crew members, thriving in the team culture fostered at First Choice Solar.
Beyond the hustle and bustle of the workday, Seb is an avid enthusiast of outdoor pursuits, a keen climber, and a kickboxer who loves a solid little gym session in between. But, after a long day of hard work, there's nothing Seb enjoys more than slipping into a well-deserved slumber.
Seb's unique hidden talent? He can hold his breath for an impressive two minutes! Seb's ultimate goal in life is to join the ranks of the millionaires club.
Olle
Roofer in the making
Olle is an apprentice roofer who joined our team and is on the hunt to progress within the renewables industry.
Olle seamlessly integrated into our solar company, loving working alongside his dedicated and supportive teammates most.
When he's not on a roof, Olle's life revolves around footy, family, and friends. He loves winding down after a busy day with some music, hitting the gym, or relaxing at the beach.
A true sports enthusiast, Olle loves his footy but is a fan of TV time too, "A Bronx Tale," and "The Sopranos," are top of his favourites list.
Reflecting on his life so far, Olle is most proud of his bold move from New Zealand to Australia, embracing new opportunities and challenges with enthusiasm. With dreams of exploring new horizons, a European adventure is top of his bucket list.
Scott
Solar Installer
Scott has been climbing the ropes through his apprenticeship for the past three years. He is now a well-established, capable third-year apprentice at First Choice Solar.
Scott was looking to get a trade under his belt and was drawn to our team and its tight-knit crew. Scott relishes the opportunity to learn and grow alongside his experienced colleagues.
Outside of work, Scott leads an active and adventurous lifestyle. He loves heading for a spot of fishing, soaking up the sun at the beach, and hitting the gym.
A keen rugby league fan, he enjoys cheering on his favourite teams while unwinding with a few cold beers. Scott's colleagues might be surprised to learn that he was a highly skilled rugby player, representing the Australian schoolboys under 15s team a decade ago and. Scott's dreams for the future are set on one day embarking on an epic world adventure.
Kye
Solar Installer
Kye sought out First Choice Solar to complete his electrician apprenticeship some time ago. He wanted to gain a trade working and learning from a solar installation company full of great people.
When he’s not acting as a solar panel installer or helping in the factory/showrooms, he's tearing up the track on his moto, catching waves at one of the Gold Coast's best surf beaches, or just hanging out with his mates kicking the footy.
Watching the rugby, though, is his number one go-to wind down method after a busy day with the tools.
Behind the sparky facade lies a hidden talent and passion: Kye's a devoted motocross racer who competes at every opportunity. Juggling his passion with his responsibilities, his proudest achievement to date is finishing school, and he now has his sights set on completing his apprenticeship.
Aaron
Solar Installer
Aaron became one of our certified solar power installers two years ago, choosing First Choice Solar for an exciting new career path as an electrician. His insatiable thirst for knowledge sets Aaron apart.
Outside of work, Aaron leads an active life, enjoying leisurely walks along the beach, hitting the gym, and cheering on his favorite sports team, the mighty Broncos.
Aaron knows how to enjoy himself! After a busy day of work, Aaron winds down with a gym session or a 10km trot.
Aaron boasts a remarkable secret talent—fluency in six languages, including Japanese.
Aaron takes immense pride in his work ethic and his ability to support his peers on their own journeys. With aspirations of completing a full marathon before his 30th birthday, Aaron's determination knows no bounds.
Liam
Solar Installer
Liam joined First Choice Solar on the hunt for an electrician trade with knowledge and experience learned from what he calls “The Best Gold Coast Solar Crew.”
He highlights spending time collaborating and learning with good folks and soaking up the sun as the absolute highlights of his workdays.
Outside of business hours, Liam loves hitting the green for a quick 9 at the golf course, playing guitar, or watching a little Prison Break on TV.
But, his ultimate unwinding method – a soothing hot shower.
His greatest accomplishment to date was proudly getting accepted by First Choice Solar to complete his electrician apprenticeship alongside the best. One of his life goals right now is to fly a plane one day.
Max
Warehouse coordinator
Max is First Choice Solar’s' powerhouse warehouse guru and labourer. He joined our team in search of job stability in a closely connected family business environment. What he loves most about his role is the lively banter that fills our company corridors, keeping spirits high and energy flowing.
Outside the warehouse hustle, Max spends his time strumming his guitar and spending quality time with his mates and the family. The Lord of the Rings trilogy is one of his all-time favourites, and he relaxes after finishing a hard day's work with a hot shower, good food, and an early night.
He highlights distinguishing inverter covers as a proud accomplishment. Max’s bucket list ambition currently is to one day purchase his own home.