Carter graduated from the University of Colorado in 1969 with a Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME). In 1970, he received his Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Central Michigan University.

He spent his career in the Chemical Industry working for a major Chemical Manufacturing Company in various management and engineering positions. He encountered and was involved in industrial accident investigations, product liability, and environmental and marine accident situations. A major part of his career was working with customers to understand their needs and requirements and finding ways to solve customer’s problems.

He is also a Commercial/Instrument Rated Pilot for airplanes, single and multi engine (land) and single engine (sea), with Airplane, Instrument and Multi Engine Flight Instructor Ratings. Has been a pilot for over 35 years and has experience in Commercial Aviation under FAR Part 135 as both a pilot and an owner in both the operations and maintenance areas, land and water operations, for both reciprocating and turbine engines. He also has experience participating in accident investigations, looking for the causes and circumstances and recommending changes and other preventative measures. Carter is a person who with his combined management, technical and aviation background can perform detailed and thorough investigations looking for the causes and contributing factors involved in an accident and gathering sufficient details to “put together a clear picture” of what happened.

Carter has experience in the commercial marine and recreational boating areas in addition to operating a commercial seaplane operation. He is also a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and an advocate for recreational boating safety. He has participated in teaching the USCG Auxiliary Safe Boating Classes to new boaters for many years. He has knowledge in the areas of boat construction and repairs for fiberglass, metal and wooden hulls, mechanical propulsion systems, marine hardware and electronics.