Meet the Top Tier Team
Aaron "Doc" Carter, owner
- Bachelor of Arts, Music Composition - Campbell University
- Master of Music, Music Composition - The University of Georgia
- Doctor of Musical Arts, Music Composition and Theory - The University of Georgia
I’m Doc.
If you call Top Tier Shelving, I answer.
If you schedule an estimate, I come measure.
If you hire us, I build it and install it.
If you order a DIY kit, I make it and ship it.
I grew up in North Carolina and spent the first part of my career in music. I earned degrees in Music Composition from Campbell University and University of Georgia, culminating in a Doctor of Musical Arts in Composition and Theory.
For years, I taught courses like Orchestration, Counterpoint, and Music Theory at the collegiate level. I loved the work. I loved the craft. I loved building things that would last.
But over time, I realized something.
I didn’t just enjoy composing music.
I enjoyed building systems.
Clear. Structured. Strong. Thoughtful systems.
At home, that instinct showed up in woodworking and problem-solving projects. In the garage, I saw something frustrating: most storage systems were either flimsy, generic, or designed with zero understanding of how homeowners actually use their space.
So I pivoted.
I entered the garage organization industry and quickly discovered something important: homeowners don’t need more “stuff.” They need smart design, honest communication, and something that will still be solid ten years from now.
I helped build another company to profitability, improved manufacturing processes, and worked directly with customers to solve real storage challenges. But eventually, I knew the answer wasn’t to keep trying to change someone else’s company.
The answer was to build a better one.
Why Top Tier Exists
Top Tier Shelving Company was built on a simple belief:
If it’s worth building, it’s worth building right.
That means:
- American-made materials
- Aerospace-grade aluminum
- Thoughtful engineering
- Clear communication
- No gimmicks
We don’t chase trends.
We don’t compete on being the cheapest.
We focus on being the smartest system you can put in your garage.
Your garage is valuable square footage. It shouldn’t be a place where clutter wins and your car loses.
A Little More Personal
While teaching at Campbell University, I met my wife, Lucy, a violinist and business owner herself. We now have two sons.
This company isn’t a side project.
It’s how I provide for my family.
When I install shelving in your garage, my name is attached to it. That matters to me.
What You Can Expect
When you work with Top Tier:
- You’ll talk to the owner.
- You’ll get honest recommendations.
- You’ll get shelving designed around your space — not a one-size-fits-all kit.
- You’ll get something built to last.
No drama.
No pressure.
Just solid work.
Thanks for considering us.
— Doc