I had the fortunate opportunity to participate in a roundtable discussion with six other outstanding women, regarding women in the workplace. It was a lively discussion that was enlightening to see the progress we as a society have made in the empowerment of women in the workplace but also shined a light on the reality that there is a threat of regression if momentum and conversations around women empowerment do not continue.
Be sure to check out the article to hear from myself and other working women discuss the importance of having a mentor(s); what challenges and issues face young girls today and our approach for handling those issues; the barriers women face taking on leadership roles; and how to navigate a room being the only women.
https://www.bizjournals.com/albany/news/2017/10/20/industry-roundtable-women-in-the-workplace.html
At Martin Electric, we are proud to recognize Ely Stone, Tim Vermilya, and Ryan Ohlerich on their graduation from the Tri-City Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) apprenticeship program.
After five years of dedicated classroom instruction and thousands of hours of hands-on field training, Ely, Tim, and Ryan have officially earned the title of Journeyman Electricians - a significant milestone that reflects years of hard work, commitment, and perseverance.
The Tri-City JATC apprenticeship program is widely recognized for developing highly skilled electricians through a combination of rigorous academic coursework and real-world experience. Graduates leave the program prepared to safely and effectively perform work across a wide range of complex electrical systems and environments.
While graduation marks the completion of their formal apprenticeship, it also represents the beginning of the next chapter in their careers.
The electrical industry continues to evolve rapidly as new technologies, automation, prefabrication, and digital construction methods reshape how projects are designed and built. Today's electricians must be lifelong learners, continually adapting their skills to meet the changing demands of the industry.
Equally important is the responsibility to mentor those coming behind them. At Martin Electric, workforce development has always been a priority but the continual learning doesn't stop after the apprenticeship program. The strength of our industry depends on experienced electricians investing in the next generation, sharing knowledge, and upholding the standards of safety, quality, and craftsmanship that define the union electrical trade.
We are incredibly proud of Ely, Tim, and Ryan for reaching this milestone and grateful for the dedication they have already demonstrated both in the classroom and in the field. We look forward to watching them continue to grow as electricians, leaders, and mentors throughout their careers. Congratulations!
To learn more about the Tri-City JATC program and how to get started, visit: https://www.tricityjatc.org/page/about-us-1.html
And to learn more about IBEW Local 236, visit: https://www.ibew236.org/about/
Out of over 400 nominations, Kendra Hart was selected as Albany Business Review's 40 Under 40 Class of 2017.
Hart joins a selective group of talented young professionals who have shown a commitment to their careers in addition to their community.
Exciting news! Martin Electric has acquired Control Network (CNC), Our long-time collaborator renowned for its excellence in IT infrastructure, design, and deployment throughout the Capital Region and beyond.
Since 1981, Control Network Communications has offered a one-stop-shop for all IT communication and data needs, ensuring security, efficiency, and reliability, which has cemented their position as leaders and trusted partners in the Capital Region and beyond. As a subsidiary of Martin Electric, CNC is building a future where their combined strengths and shared values will grow their already established dedication to staying at the forefront of emerging trends and technologies. For years, CNC has established itself as a leader in fiber optic cable, wireless and data networks, network security, IP telephony, security surveillance, access control, and asset recovery. This acquisition is a great opportunity for us to enhance our service offerings and deepen our commitment to providing comprehensive electrical solutions in the Capital Region.
“Beyond the strong portfolio and impressive client service that CNC brings to the table, we find ourselves most excited about the real heart and soul of what makes CNC exceptional - their people. It is the skillful craftsmen, the unwavering dedication to quality workmanship, the passion for innovation, and the pursuit of perfection that truly represent the most valuable assets joining our team. Many CNC team members have been with the company since its inception, embodying a sense of loyalty and a commitment to excellence that resonates profoundly with our own values at Martin Electric.” (Kendra Hart, President)
Stefan Strait and Steve Rinkewich have been long time collaborators with Kendra Hart and Martin Electric. The relationship that the three of them have built created an inevitable connection in the workspace fostering many successful collaborative projects such as Plug Power and Rensselaer County Buildings. Their knowledge and expertise of the low voltage space has already brought such insight to the Martin Electric crew. Beyond that, they are a perfect fit into the culture that is Martin Electric.
As natural as it could have been, Martin Electric and CNC decided after working together for 30 years that the two companies with the same core values should continue their growth together. In integrating CNC into the Martin Electric family, we are not just expanding our capabilities or extending our market presence; we are cultivating an environment for professional growth, collaborative success, and technological advancement. Together, we are better positioned than ever to serve our community, meeting today’s needs while steering towards a bright and electrifying future.
We are confident that this transition will be seamless for our clients, as we continue to focus on delivering superior service without interruption. Your ongoing projects are in steady hands, empowered by the combined strengths of Martin Electric and Control Network.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to every team member, client, and partner who has been part of our respective journeys so far. Without your support, trust, and hard work, this momentous occasion would not be possible.
More to come as we welcome Stefan Strait, Steve Rinkewich, and the entire CNC team to our family!
What an incredible milestone—85 years in business! Since our founding in 1939, Martin Electric has remained dedicated to our core values: Quality, Safety, Innovation, and Collaboration. These principles have been the backbone of our operations and have fostered lasting relationships with our employees, clients, vendors, and the community.
A Journey Through Time
Martin Electric was established by George J. Martin Jr. in 1939. One of our future company leaders, Donald Hart, began his journey at just 23, entering the IBEW apprenticeship program under George’s guidance. At that time, Martin Electric was one of only six electrical contracting companies in the region, employing about 80 skilled electricians. Don’s remarkable work ethic and attention to detail quickly propelled him through the ranks, culminating in a leadership role on major projects. One standout achievement was managing the Civil Defense Center in the 1960s, a critical project in response to the Cuban Missile Crisis that relocated the government’s communications hub underground.
Commitment to Safety
As we celebrate our history, we take pride in our unwavering commitment to Safety. Our impressive 0.57 EMR (Emergency Modification Rating) reflects the high standards our team upholds to protect each other and our work sites. The mantra “If you see something, say something” embodies our collective responsibility for safety. Across three generations of Hart family leadership, our commitment to Quality has remained steadfast. Our mission has always been to be the most reliable contractor by employing the most qualified electricians.
Upholding Integrity and Quality
Don Hart instilled two key principles that continue to guide us today: ensuring employment for our team even during challenging times and honoring our contracts with a commitment to quality, even at a financial loss. One of our proudest moments came when we secured a redundant power job with New York Telephone Company—now Verizon—establishing a strong client relationship that has endured since 1975.
A Legacy of Collaboration
Brian Hart, following in his father’s footsteps, worked as an IBEW electrician for over 20 years before transitioning into a key managerial role. Under his leadership, Martin Electric prioritized trust and collaboration, emphasizing transparent communication and integrity throughout every project. This approach has allowed us to build long-term connections with employees, clients, and vendors alike.
Embracing Innovation
Now, as we step into the future with Kendra Hart at the helm, we are excited to embrace Innovation. Our mission is to blend our rich history with cutting-edge advancements in technology and construction methods. By harnessing this synergy, we aim to accelerate the construction process and continue our legacy of excellence.
Kendra has been a key differentiator in our community as she leads the growth of diversity in the trades, specifically working with community organizations and coalitions to bring attention to the growth of women in the trades.
As we look back on 85 remarkable years, we are grateful for the journey and excited for what lies ahead. Cheers to 85 years!
Check out Construction in Focus's article to learn more about how Martin manages growth; their commitment to adhering to a safe workplace and quality workmanship; how they navigate industry challenges such as availability of talented electricians and managers; as well as where they are going in the future!
https://www.constructioninfocus.com/mag/CIFNAFeb2017/#?page=66
The Chamber and the County select business' who bring good news to the local community through economic advancement and quality of life.
Since moving it's offices from downtown Albany to East Greenbush back in 1975, Martin Electric and the Hart family have been heavily invested in the local community employing on average 150 employees and using it's expertise in construction to develop and redevelop several vacant parcels along major corridors in Rensselaer County. Additionally, Martin Electric has shown a strong commitment to it's community; dedicating time and resources to local non-for- profits such as the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Rensselaer County.
Kendra Hart, accepting the award on behalf of Martin Electric, thanks the Chamber for creating a close knit, collaborative community where private enterprises and local government can exchange ideas and work together to put "Rensco" on the map as a live, work, play community. "We all win when the public and private sectors work together," says Hart.
