About Us
Our Story
Buckle UP Experts was founded by Thomas Gooch after witnessing firsthand the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Determined to shield his home from future disasters, Thomas sought comprehensive solutions to fortify his property. Unable to find a company that combined expertise, product selection, installation, and project management, he decided to build one himself.
Drawing from his 30 years of experience protecting data centers from power outages, fires, and water intrusion, Thomas assembled a team of accomplished entrepreneurs and engineers to bring Buckle UP to life. Today, we are committed to helping homeowners secure their properties against a wide range of risks, delivering innovative products and expert project management every step of the way.
Meet the Team
Thomas Gooch – President
Thomas is an entrepreneur and inventor who holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business from the University of South Carolina. Thomas is known for launching and scaling multiple successful startups such as Inland Fiber & Data, Infrastructure Management Solutions, and Modular Integrated Solutions. He also co-patented the revolutionary “Data Center in a Row” product, which was sold to Emerson Network Power in 2012. After selling his latest business in 2023, Thomas has shifted his focus on a new mission: helping residents and business owners fortify their properties against potential harm. Thomas is passionate and committed to implementing his 30 plus years of industry experience to Buckle UP.
Yves Bouhadana – Vice President of Electrical Systems
Yves is a globally recognized expert in critical infrastructure with over 25 years of experience across 87 countries. A graduate of the University of South Florida, Yves has been instrumental in shaping the U.S. market strategies for international tech giants. Fluent in French and Spanish, he brings a unique global perspective to Buckle UP, ensuring robust and resilient electrical solutions for every home.
John Stern – COO & SVP Strategy
John is a visionary leader with extensive experience driving growth and sustainability in Fortune 500 companies. With a master’s degree in international business and an executive program from MIT, John has been pivotal in developing over 2.5 million square feet of LEED-certified facilities. His strategic expertise guides Buckle UP in delivering innovative and sustainable solutions.
Todd Wilson – VP of Mechanical Systems
Todd is a seasoned mechanical engineer with over 31 years of professional experience. As the co-founder of Wilson Girgenti Engineering, he has led projects across major U.S. cities. Todd’s expertise in mechanical systems ensures Buckle UP delivers reliable, high-performance solutions tailored to the unique needs of each home.
