Every year at Field Nation, we present the Exceptional Provider Awards (EPA) to top-performing independent technicians on the marketplace who demonstrate outstanding professionalism, reliability, and skill in field service. These individuals set a high standard and consistently go above and beyond to deliver quality work and build strong relationships with clients.

One such standout is Chris Boring, a seasoned field service technician whose expertise and dedication have earned him this award in the category of Reliability Rockstar. With a career rooted in technical precision and adaptability, Chris embodies what it means to be an exceptional provider. His journey from the Air Force to field service is a testament to the opportunities within this industry and the power of continuous learning and adaptability.

From the Air Force to field service

After 32 years in the Air Force as an aircraft maintenance officer, Chris sought a more flexible career that would allow him to continue working without the constraints of a traditional 9-to-5 job. After spending decades maintaining aircraft, which he describes as “just gigantic computers,” the shift to IT and field service was a natural fit. His extensive background in electronics, coupled with his problem-solving skills, made him well-equipped for the demands of the industry. “I was looking for something dynamic, but without the same pressures as my Air Force service,” Chris explained. “Field service offered that balance.”

Discovering Field Nation and expanding his expertise

Chris’s introduction to Field Nation came through conversations with fellow veterans also transitioning into civilian careers. After researching different platforms, he found that Field Nation offered the right mix of flexibility, opportunity, and variety that suited his skill set and lifestyle. Since joining the platform nearly four years ago, Chris has taken on an impressive range of projects, from assembling coffee stands to building entire networks from scratch. His work has included modem repairs, Wi-Fi installations, and, more recently, digital signage and menu board installations. “Every day is different, which keeps things interesting,” he said.

Despite his extensive experience, Chris credits Field Nation for broadening his technical knowledge. The platform has exposed him to emerging technologies, such as point-to-point antennas, and has allowed him to refine his troubleshooting skills. “Field Nation has given me the chance to try new things,” he said. “Some jobs push me out of my comfort zone, but I’ve always found that my background in problem-solving helps me learn on the go.”

The key to success: preparation and adaptability

Preparation is a cornerstone of Chris’s work ethic. The night before a job, he meticulously reviews his assignments, prints necessary paperwork, and checks his tools and test equipment to ensure he has everything required. “I always do a pre-check because the last thing you want is to get to a job site and realize you’re missing something crucial,” he said.

Chris relies on consistent and thorough communication to get projects done correctly, especially when dealing with broken elements. “I always start by asking the local customer, ‘When did this issue start happening?’” he said. “Often, they provide the best clues, and that can make all the difference in diagnosing the problem.”

Maintaining a positive attitude is something Chris prides himself on, even in challenging situations. “There’s no point in being negative,” he said. “At the end of the day, the client just wants their system to work. I treat every client like my own customer, not just someone else’s job I’m handling.”

Winning the Exceptional Provider Award

Winning the EPA was an unexpected but meaningful honor for Chris. “When I first got the email, I thought it was spam! But once I realized it was real, I was humbled,” he said. The award validates his approach to field service—being reliable, professional, and communicative. “It’s a great recognition and a nice way to stand out when building my business,” he said.

Advice for new technicians

For those just starting out, Chris offers straightforward advice: keep learning, stay honest, and communicate effectively. “Don’t fake it till you make it,” he cautioned. “In IT, people will know right away if you don’t know what you’re doing. Ask questions, be willing to learn, and don’t be afraid to say, ‘I don’t know, but I’ll find out.’” He also stresses the importance of time management and leaving space in your schedule to account for unexpected challenges. “Troubleshooting jobs always take longer than expected,” he said. “Build in buffer time so you’re not constantly stressed about being late.”

With nearly four years on the Field Nation platform, Chris continues to thrive, bringing professionalism, problem-solving skills, and a great attitude to every job. His journey demonstrates the opportunities available in field service and the power of adaptability and expertise. Congratulations to Chris Boring on winning the Exceptional Provider Award—a well-earned recognition for an outstanding technician.

Curious to know more about the Exceptional Provider Awards? Meet the other EPA recipients and learn more about the top independent technicians on the Field Nation marketplace.