Hidden Gems: Meet Brian Foster of 1st Generation Electric

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian Foster.

Hi Brian, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I grew up in Oakland California, where opportunities were limited and it was easy to get pulled into the wrong things. After years of struggle and hitting a point where life wasn’t moving forward, I made the decision to change my direction. Construction gave me discipline, pride, and purpose, and that eventually led me into the electrical trade, where I worked my way from union journeyman to leadership roles. I later moved to Atlanta to care for my mother after her stroke, and that move opened the door to starting 1st Generation Electric in 2022. Today, the company is growing steadily, and my mission is not just building systems but giving back, creating opportunity, and helping others rewrite their story.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I started the business without any formal business training, so I had to learn entrepreneurship from the ground up. Everything from getting licensed and registered to finding customers and managing operations. At the same time, I became a caregiver for my mother as she recovered from a stroke and had to relearn how to walk and talk. Balancing business growth with family responsibility was one of the toughest challenges I’ve faced. Those struggles forced me to grow fast, stay disciplined, and build with patience and purpose.

We’ve been impressed with 1st Generation Electric, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
1ST Generation Electric is a full-service electrical contracting company serving the Atlanta area, providing residential, commercial, industrial and service-based electrical work. We’re known for high-quality, code-compliant installations, clear communication, and dependable execution from start to finish. What sets us apart is our attention to detail, professionalism, and the fact that we build long-term relationships rather than just completing one-off jobs. Brand-wise, I’m most proud that the company has grown through referrals and repeat clients, which speaks to the trust we’ve earned. At the same time, our mission extends beyond business. We’re committed to mentorship, second chances, and using the trades to create real opportunity and positive impact in the community.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can work with us by hiring us for residential, commercial, or service-based electrical projects throughout the Atlanta area. We’re always open to collaborating with general contractors, developers, property managers, and other trades who value quality and professionalism. We also welcome partnerships focused on workforce development and mentorship in the trades. Anyone interested in working with us or supporting what we’re building can reach us directly at 404-78-4596 or info@firstgenelectric.com. For us, collaboration is about building long-term relationships that create real impact. Both in business and in the community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.firstgenelectric.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firstgeneration_electrician/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stgenelectric/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1st-generation-electric-llc

Image Credits
Alexis Carraway