His nomination was sent to the United States Senate for consideration on October 4, 2021, and confirmed on March 31, 2022.

[1][2] DeCarolis earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics and environmental science and policy from Clark University, followed by a PhD in engineering and public policy from Carnegie Mellon University.

He joined the faculty of North Carolina State University in 2008 as an associate professor and has since worked as a full professor.

DeCarolis specializes in civil engineering, energy systems, and public policy.

[6] President Biden renominated DeCarolis the following day and hearings were held for his nomination by the Senate's Energy Committee on February 8, 2022.