Excellence in Electrical Construction
Founded in 1935, Watson Electrical Construction Company has grown from a small electrical shop in Wilson, NC into a powerhouse in the electrical construction industry across the Southeast – with a legacy built on innovation, integrity, and expertise. For nearly a century, we’ve powered communities, shaped skylines, and evolved with the times – without ever losing sight of the values that sparked our success. Today, we continue to lead the way with cutting-edge electrical solutions and a commitment to excellence that drives us into the future.
Since our founding, we’ve been driven by a simple mission – one that continues to shape how we work, how we serve, and how we lead in the electrical construction industry:
We provide innovative solutions by developing and maintaining relationships that discover customer and employee needs and then exceeding them.
INTEGRITY
You can count on the Watson team to do the right thing — even when no one is watching. Honesty and accountability guide every action, every time.
CONTINUOUS DEVELOPMENT
From Apprentices to seasoned pros, we invest in growth, learning, and career development at every stage of your journey.
LASTING RELATIONSHIPS
Strong relationships are the foundation of our success — built on trust, respect, and partnerships that stand the test of time.
FAMILY ATMOSPHERE
Rooted in family values, we treat every employee like one of our own — with care, respect, and a culture that feels like home.
A look through the years
WATSON ELECTRICAL
1935
Humble Beginnings
Dick Watson establishes Dick’s Electric in Wilson, North Carolina, providing electrical services to residential homes throughout Wilson County. This marked the foundation of what would grow into the Southeast’s most trusted electrical contractors.
1952
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE
Watson launches its Apprenticeship Program, laying the groundwork for what would become a nationally recognized, award-winning training program — welcoming hundreds of graduates and shaping the next generation of electrical professionals.
1960
A New Era Begins
Tommy Watson becomes President, officially succeeding his father. With his leadership, the company is renamed Watson Electrical Construction Company and expands its services to include commercial construction, paving the way for future growth and diversification.
WATSON ELECTRICAL
1986
A DECADE OF GROWTH
W. E. “Bill” Boyette, a long-time Watson employee, purchases the company. Under his leadership, Watson enters a new era — doubling sales volume and employment while expanding our footprint into Virginia and South Carolina throughout the decade.
1990
BUILDING FUTURE LEADERS
Watson partners with East Carolina University to develop and launch our Construction Management Training Program — a hands-on initiative designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage complex construction projects.
1998
A TIME OF TRANSITION
Watson is acquired by Building One Services, later known as Encompass Technologies. In 2002, Encompass files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization but plans to retain profitable companies like Watson, recognizing its continued strength and value in the industry.
WATSON ELECTRICAL
2003
INDEPENDENCE RECLAIMED
With a bold vision for the future, an acquisition team leads the successful repurchase of Watson, restoring its status as a privately held company. The Watson Electrical name returns — renewing a legacy of quality and dependability over 60 years strong. Craig Myers is named President/CEO of the newly reacquired company.
2006
NATIONAL RECOGNITION
Watson’s Apprenticeship Program reaches new heights as Jonathan Spargo wins first place in the North Carolina Apprenticeship Contest and becomes Watson’s first nationally recognized apprentice — marking a proud moment in the company’s investment in workforce development.
2016
MULTI-FAMILY DIVISON LAUNCHES
Watson launches its Multi-Family division, opening the door to a new era of opportunity. Backed by decades of commercial experience, the team quickly becomes a trusted partner on innovative multi-family developments across the Southeast.
WATSON ELECTRICAL
2025
90 YEARS STRONG
Watson celebrates its 90th Anniversary by honoring the leaders who shaped our mission, the employees who live our values every day, and the partners who have supported our journey. Together, we look ahead to the next 90 years of excellence, innovation, and growth.
Contact Us
Ready to get to work on your next Multi-Family or Commercial project? Reach out today!
