LEADERSHIP
James Diaz-Barriga, Chief Executive Officer
James is an OIF/OEF veteran who served in the Navy as a Nuclear Warfare Officer. After serving his country, James worked with various companies driving change and running the financial leadership of various businesses. His experience working with construction-based companies, both in industry and while at a private equity firm, developed a passion for growing these businesses in the energy sector, culminating in his acquisition of Dark Horse Companies in 2021.
James resides in Franklin, TN with his wife Amy, and children Gabriella and Max. He enjoys his children’s sports activities, exercise, and his service as a board member for both Men of Valor, a men’s prison ministry, and the State of TN Board of Medical Examiners.
Kenny Baird, Vice President of Client Relations
Kenny joins Dark Horse Companies as Vice President of Client Relations, having most recently served as the General Manager of the LaFollette Utilities Board, a municipal power, water, and wastewater utility located in East TN, which he has led since 1995.
Kenny holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in accounting from Lincoln Memorial University, a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of TN at Chattanooga, and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electric Power Technology from Bismarck State College. He is also a Certified Public Accountant in the State of TN.
Over his 33 years of industry experience, Kenny has served on many boards and industry-related committees, including the Tennessee Valley Public Power Association and the Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association.
Kenny has been married to Tammy since 1990 and they have two grown sons, Logan and Caleb. His hobbies include running, playing several musical instruments, and playing golf.
Grant Carriker, Vice President of Operations
Grant graduated with a bachelor’s degree in systems management from The United States Military Academy in 2007 and subsequently served in the Army as a Field Artillery Officer for 13 years. After a medical retirement, Grant joined the Electric Power Board of Chattanooga as the Manager of Electric Construction and Preventative Maintenance.
Grant resides in Chattanooga, TN with his wife Christy, and children Lily and Michael. He enjoys exercising, participating in his children’s sports activities, golf, and travel. He has served on the Chattanooga Military Officers Association of America board, and the technical advisory board for the Southeastern Lineman Training Center.
