Meet Jay, one of Price Electric’s People You Can Rely On.
Jay is a foreman who focuses mainly on Commercial Division projects. When he’s not at work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Kara, and their golden retriever, Lewis. I also love watching and attending Iowa Hawkeye football and basketball games and traveling as often as possible.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best parts of my job at Price Electric are the opportunities and the people. It’s fun. I enjoy the group stuff; there’s always something fun, and the camaraderie is excellent.
Which Price Electric Core Value do you relate to the most?
The Price Electric core value that resonates with me the most is “Create Opportunities for Success.” I have been given numerous opportunities to demonstrate my abilities and carve out my path to growth. This professional freedom has allowed me to approach my work in the way that suits me best. As a result, I am better positioned to create meaningful opportunities for my crews and apprentices and support their development in this trade.
What would you say to someone considering employment and an electrical career with Price Electric?
I encourage anyone to start a career with Price Electric. There are opportunities for growth and people who help you with that growth.
Could you tell us about a project at Price Electric that stands out to you?
My favorite project at Price Electric was remodeling Mid-Prairie Middle School and Elementary School this past summer. Initially, we took over from a previous contractor to complete the work that had started before the new school year. However, we reworked almost everything the previous contractor had done over the past eight months within a 12-week timeframe. It was by far the most challenging project I’ve faced to date, but I was fortunate to have a crew that was willing and capable of handling such a large amount of work in such a short time.
Before working at Price Electric, what was your most exciting or unusual job?
During my senior year of high school, I started bartending and continued for about four years. That experience was neat.
What is the best vacation you’ve ever had?
My best vacation was with my wife in Big Sur, California, where we took engagement photos. The stunning views and the absence of crowds made it very relaxing. We also visited Monterey and Pebble Beach.
What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meal is anything my wife makes; she should open a restaurant. Also, I will always choose an Italian sandwich on the menu at any restaurant.
What motivates you?
An unwillingness to settle; there is no ceiling for self-improvement.
What has been one of your proudest moments working at Price Electric?
One of my proudest moments at Price Electric was passing my Journeyman’s exam on the first attempt. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from many experienced colleagues, which helped reduce the stress I felt leading up to the exam.
Tell us three things that most people don’t know about you.
- I named my dog after Grandpa Lewis from Christmas Vacation, anticipating that he would destroy our Christmas tree so I could say, “Lewis, look what you did to my tree!” Fortunately, he was a good boy and never caused any damage.
- I accidentally put my finger in Keith Urban’s mouth at the Jones County Fair.
- I’m confident that I could recite the entire script of Dumb and Dumber without making a single mistake.
Where would you go for a dream vacation?
Every vacation is a dream vacation. My wife and I enjoy traveling, so our next dream destination would be anywhere we haven’t been before.
Can you tell us a few details about the favorite part of your job?
One of my favorite parts of my job is the opportunity to help the next generation of electricians grow and learn. Anyone who has worked with me can attest to my passion for teaching new concepts and helping others better understand their tasks. I enjoy teaching and mentoring employees. I take pride in seeing them grow. I like to encourage that growth.
What was the first concert that you went to?
The first concert I attended was the Dixie Chicks when I was 10.
What skill do you think everyone should learn?
I believe adaptability is a crucial skill that everyone should learn. Price Electric has various electrical work projects, so adaptability is beneficial. For instance, one day, you might be wiring a new Motor Control Center (MCC), and the next day, you could be helping to install underground conduits. This versatility is an asset in our field.
What are three words to describe Price Electric?
- Fun
- Challenging (in a good way)
- Inclusive
What is on your bucket list?
I recently learned that you could walk with penguins in Argentina, so that has been added to my bucket list. I would also like to see the Pittsburgh Penguins win the Stanley Cup in person, and I want to travel outside the country.
Have you won any awards or recognition or completed special classes or training?
I have shared an ABC of Iowa Excellence in Construction award for the Linn Co-op Project. Additionally, I completed the ABC of Iowa’s Field Leadership Academy and Emerging Leader Program.
What are five words for anyone considering an electrical profession with Price Electric?
Come, learn, and grow with incredible people.
What makes you want to stay at our organization?
I am motivated to remain with Price Electric because of its opportunities. Since I joined the company, I have experienced consistent upward growth in my career.