In 2009 I was working to provide for my growing family. I knew we were in a recession and that, even though the company I was working for was great, the economy could affect my job status at any time. I got my Oregon Electrical Supervisor’s License to be prepared if, or when, that happened. A short time later I also got my Washington Master Electrical License so that I would have as many opportunities to say yes as possible. I wanted that security of knowing I could get us through a downturn.

Circumstances did change, and I found myself out on my own. I was willing to take any call I could get, and the key to getting as many jobs as I could was to simply keep answering the phone. I worked long hours to help neighbors, to bail out contractors, and to start building relationships that would keep those phone calls coming. Today, that is the same. Even though I don’t take every phone call myself anymore, a live person will answer and help you.

It was important to me that I was doing better work than other contractors out there, that my standards were high, and that I was doing it for a fair price. At the same time, I was giving myself and my family a sense of security. As I watched the business grow, I got to experience the same sense of security and pride through my employees. I love to see employees with the same drive, and I love to see them be able to provide for their families. It has been stressful at times, but also very rewarding to see how this has grown into something that sustains other families and people who are planning for a life-long career here.

As time has gone on, my drive and standards have not changed. I enjoy being able to do all kinds of work – I want to be constantly challenged and keep my skills sharp. My crew is the same – people at Steele Electric like to solve problems, produce excellent work, and go home with a sense of accomplishment in a job well done. I like to be able to meet any challenge and conquer it, and I am proud to now watch people who have started their career here go from zero electrical knowledge to being some of the most capable and talented people in this trade.

Steele Electric is now a successful, respected, and seasoned company. Some of our customers have been with us since the beginning, and a few of our employees have been here almost as long as I have. We have tackled projects that put us out of our comfort zone and come out the other side having learned something new and maintaining the integrity we strive for. I feel like our customers are our partners; they provide valuable feedback on how we are doing as a company and where we stand in the industry.