Gaston Electrical

CONTRACTING SERVICES BUILT ON RESULTS

GASTON ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION

E N AC T I N G ELECTRICAL EFFICIENCY AND E M P OW E R I N G TEAMS A force in Boston and the surrounding area, President Mike Weber highlights how Gaston Electrical has expanded from humble beginnings to become an industry leader in electrical and low voltage contracting services Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Michael Sommerfield

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s an exclusively family-owned enterprise, until recently becoming part of the EMCOR family of companies in 2022, Gaston Electrical (Gaston) heralds the advantage of having been managed by the same family for nearly nine decades.

Looking at its impressive history, the company was established in 1934 by Phil Gaston, and then led

by Ernest Weber, the grandfather of Mike Weber, the current President of Gaston.

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After returning from World War II, Ernest devotedly ran the business until the mid 1980s with a small crew that primarily focused on service projects for a range of local clients.

Following this, Bill Weber Sr., Weber’s father, took over the helm, elevating the company to the next level by growing its manpower and taking on more comprehensive tenant fit-up work.

Subsequently, in 2007, Mike and his brother, Bill Jr., bought Gaston from their father and strategically

grew the company’s client base and workforce to become one of the largest electrical and low voltage contractors in New England. As a result of this growth and success, in 2022, Gaston was sold to EMCOR - a global leader in electrical and mechanical construction, industrial and energy infrastructure, and building services.

Mike has been involved in the Gaston enterprise for a long time, having worked there from a young age.

GASTON ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION

“I drove the delivery van in the summers throughout high school and worked as a summer helper in the field throughout college,” says Weber.

“After graduating from Boston College in 2002, I entered the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Electrical Union and began my five-year apprenticeship, working at Gaston the entire time,” he adds.

Building commercial properties always interested Weber, which combined with managing the company alongside his brother Bill, has proven to be a rewarding experience.

Throughout their time at Gaston, the brothers have worked in a multitude of roles, including Estimator, Purchasing Agent, Project Manager, and more, which has helped Weber understand and appreciate every level of the business and recognize the importance of building the right team of employees.

THE POWER OF THREE Primarily covering the Greater Boston market, Gaston operates within the electrical construction services segment of EMCOR and currently employs over 375 field electricians/ technicians and 60 office staff.

Centered around all things electrical and low voltage, the company can be broken down into three separate divisions: electrical construction, low voltage, and service.

“We are a comprehensive company that rarely involves subcontractors, so if your building has a need for electrical or low voltage systems, we perform the work,” Weber explains.

Looking more closely at the company’s three divisions, the electrical construction subsect is consistently dedicated to a culture of responsibility, professionalism, and reliability at every step of the construction process. Thus, the combined strength of experience throughout the company ensures that knowledgeable planning, management, and execution is consistently achieved.

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GASTON ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION

Meanwhile, Gaston’s low voltage division designs and installs specialized network systems for new construction and facility upgrades, while ensuring the highest levels of communication and connectivity with its major stakeholders, employees, and clients.

The company’s Service Managers expertly complete end-user and fasttrack projects, while remaining on call to mitigate urgent situations for its customers - supported by a team of skilled electricians, low voltage technicians, and a large fleet of service vans.

Each division of Gaston performs across numerous sectors, including ground-up new construction, tenant interior fit-outs, lab and life science, hospital and medical offices, hotels, restaurants, higher education and university buildings, multi-family residential projects, and theatres, to name a few.

Gaston’s repertoire serves an increasingly diverse client base, valuing internal and external clients with equal measure. Externally, the company works for top general contractors as well as premier building ownership groups and developers in the area.

“Internally, our customers are our amazing colleagues. We’re accountable for every person in the office, as well as field personnel who depend on us to help plan their next installation,” Weber comments.

STAYING UP TO DATE When positioned within the wider landscape of electrical construction, it is a highly exciting time in the industry, as innovation is driving the market forward at a rapid pace.

“When I started in the field in 2000, our installation means and methods were very similar to the way things were done 10 to 15 years prior. Simply put, not much had changed. Over the past 10 years, however, we’ve seen the evolution of prefabrication and the benefits it can lend to a project,” Weber recalls.

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WE KNOW ELECTRICAL Located in the heart of the technology capital of the world lies Silicon Valley Breaker & Control, Inc’s first location since 2015. Specializing in electrical products and control, the aim for the company was always to build an empire that would charge boldly at any opportunity and obstacle presenting itself. That, of course, came in addition to providing electricity for anything and everything domestically. At the time, the company had just three team members working out of a nearly empty warehouse. It holds three more locations, all of which are overflowing with stock, and 52 team members. Faith, trust, and determination were and will always be the backbone of this company from the beginning and for the next one hundred years to come.

Silicon Valley Breaker & Control, Inc was founded by Jesus Garcia with one goal in mind, and that was to create something special and unique. Over the years this vision has remained a continuous painting, with each brush stroke carefully constructed to capture the collection of diverse minds that

are constantly working together. It is quite apparent that the individuals on this team are passionate ones who are always encouraged to be themselves, and to constantly find the inspiration that allows them to reach new heights in their personal and professional lives.

When asked what Silicon Valley Breaker & Control, Inc means to them, the team members agreed on one thing – purpose. Not only has the work itself been rewarding, but working with other diverse and hard-working professionals has meant far more. Evidently, this innate purpose has been translated through their work repeatedly, with the intent of bettering themselves personally and as a company through each project they bring upon themselves. The style of leadership within the company has also been a breath of fresh air for all. The

freedom to maintain an established and trusted relationship with those they work closely with has allowed them to feel a sense of belonging and comfort within their workplace.

Why do they do what they do? They love to win, they love to learn, and they love the environment they are in. With over 60 years of extensive knowledge and experience, it is no wonder why they succeed at every obstacle thrown their way. From breakers, to switchgears, to panelboards, this team does it all with exceptional quality and short lead times.

This company is quite a rare gem in this industry because they are humble, and in turn that creates the most genuine buying experience.

Silicon Valley Breaker & Control, Inc works with a variety of customers ranging from electricians, breaker houses, liquidators, and more.

They can be found and contacted through the web at www.svbcinc.com ABOUT THE CEO Jesus Garcia has been a part of the electrical products and control industry since 2001. Originally a passionate drummer who performed and competed amongst others domestically and internationally, it is no secret this leader is joyful in everything he does. When asked what he learned in his years of drumming he responded with, “I have

learned that when you want something, you have to go out and get it. You have to understand it does not always come easy, and you are going to need to work hard, but when you are passionate about it you do not care about how hard it is going to be.” That mindset has transferred over to his work with the electrical industry, as well as the values he holds within Silicon Valley Breaker & Control, Inc. “I encourage everyone to walk to the beat of their own drum. Passion is something I hold near and dear to my heart, and I want everyone to find theirs and hold it closely, too. Do not ever let it go.”

ELECTRICAL EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST! We Specialize In: Circuit Breakers • Motor Controls • Bus Duct & Bus Plugs Transformers • Distribution • Accessories

Silicon Valley Breaker & Control 2128 N. First Street, Suite E, San Jose, CA 95131

Phone: 877-456-0865 877-465-8430 • Fax: 408-351-0865 Website: www.svbcinc.com ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • APRIL 14 APRIL 2023 •2023 ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS • • ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS • 14 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

GASTON ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION

This is further supported by emerging technologies in the construction space that have aided the company’s efficiencies and productivity immensely. Examples of such technologies include labor tracking software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems that help track cost codes and link directly to on-site labor hours.

Moreover, digital modeling software such as Revit and Bluebeam are also leveraged to help Gaston’s teams draw installations for prefabrication well in advance and help the team reach optimum success.

Another trend dominating the industry in the northeast of the country is the electrification of commercial buildings. This occurs as building owners and universities are distancing themselves from fossil fuels.

As such, facilities are being designed so that electricity can

GASTON’S SERVICES – AT A GLANCE

- Design and build

“ W E D O O U R B E S T TO P U T O U R E M P LOY E E S I N A P O S I T I O N T O W O R K AT T H E T O P L E V E L OF THEIR EXPERTISE, AND EMPOWER THEM TO M A K E A D I F F E R E N C E O N P R OJ E C TS O R T H E C O M PA N Y A S A W H O L E ”

- Building information modeling

– M I K E W E B E R , P R E S I D E N T, G A S T O N E L E C T R I C A L

- Preconstruction and consulting - Budgeting and estimating - Planning and scheduling

(BIM) - Virtual design and construction - Electrical prefabrication - Electrical installation - Telecoms, data, security, and audio-visual services - Fire alarm - 24-hour service (electrical, telecoms, and data) - Infrared scanning - Switchgear testing and maintenance - Nurse call

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drive large mechanical systems, thus negating the use of oil and gas, resulting in more complex electrical services and larger, more diverse electrical installations.

Due to the diversity of the industry in the last decade, the market across the northeast (specifically Boston, and Cambridge) has been active in providing a vast range of project types, including leading-edge life sciences, world-class hospitals, toptier universities, and financial and commercial institutions.

“The growth of Boston and surrounding areas has been palpable, and it’s been really rewarding to work with so many of these groups,” Weber remarks.

DEVOTED TO SUCCESS At the core of Gaston’s success is its people, as they constitute the company’s well-earned reputation.

Whether clients need a single outlet installed in a conference room, a converged network for a new campus, or design assistance for a

Our mission is to be the single best partner for contractors wherever they build

ENGINEERED SUPPORTS • In-house engineering services • P.E.’s on staff • BIM Services • Delegated Design Services (DDS) • Submittal packages • Design and prefabrication services for - Trapeze assemblies - Hangers - Rooftop support systems • Cable joiners and suspension systems

FASTENING SOLUTIONS • Electrical fasteners in stock • Buzznuts / washers • Inventory management programs • ISO certifications • Providing products to meet: - Buy America - Buy American • AIS • Bulk Solutions – No Fail Pail

TOOLS+ TOOLS+ SAFETYSAFETY • TOOLS • ONSITE • ABRASIVES • FIRESTOP • TOOLS • ONSITESUPPLIES SUPPLIES • ABRASIVES • FIRESTOP

STRUT SUPPORT SYSTEMS • Largest inventory of strut channel & accessories • Strut fabrication • Pre-cut lengths • Data center grids • Strut grids for medical/hospital • Pre-galv, hot dip galv, stainless, powder coated, aluminum and fiberglass • Cable and ladder tray • Design and engineering services available

NEXT DAY JOBSITE DELIVERY AVAILABLE 4 FULFILLMENT CENTERS AND 26 BRANCH LOCATIONS

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NORTH AMERICA OUTLOOK: COULD YOU TELL US ABOUT THE COMPANY’S CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY? Mike Weber, President: “While our teams are very active in Boston’s construction industry, we’re equally active in our communities through many charitable and social responsibility efforts.

We understand that a healthy construction market is the result of a well-rounded, strong city overall.

“As such, we regularly support a host of local and national charities, Mike Weber, President

including the Muscular Dystrophy

“ W E CO N S I D E R O U R D I ST R I B U TO R S , M A N U FA C T U R E R S , A N D FA C T O R Y R E P R E S E N TAT I V E S A S T R U E P A R T N E R S , A S T H E Y A R E V I TA L T O T H E S U C C E S S O F O U R O P E R AT I O N S ” – M I K E W E B E R , P R E S I D E N T, G A S T O N E L E C T R I C A L

new high-rise building – it’s Gaston’s people that make the difference.

Indeed, its employees are at the forefront of technological and processing improvement, with a can-do attitude that builds trust with customers to deliver state-of-the-art projects.

“As leaders, we do our best to put our employees in a position that enables them to work at the top level of their expertise, and empower them to make a difference on projects or the company as a whole,” Weber highlights.

Due to the pride it holds in its staff, Gaston has various ways of recognizing its employees’ contributions. For example, the company holds frequent staff gatherings to give thanks and develop team comradery, which is one of the organization’s outstanding 12 | North America Outlook Issue 20

differentiators.

However, with so many employees working at various sites across the region, it can be difficult to convene the whole company at once. Therefore, annual staff outings present a great opportunity to bring together both the office and field teams for a fun afternoon.

“We round out this engagement with our field teams by taking an active and visible role in important yearly industry events such as Women in Construction Week, National Safety Week, and National Mental Awareness Month.”

To add to this, the company also promotes diversity and inclusion programs with project partners at each site, via the Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts

Association, Fisher House Boston, Boston Partners In Education, Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester, and the Pan-Mass Challenge – a 200-mile bike ride that raises funding for cancer research at Boston’s worldrenowned Dana Faber Cancer Institute.”

(AGCMA) and its Committee for Diversity and Inclusion (CFDI).

Internally, Gaston has a motivated group of employees who volunteer to help strengthen and maintain the company culture, known as the CORE Crew (Community, Outreach, Recreation, and Entertainment).

Elsewhere, Gaston greatly focuses on technology and ongoing safety training, which includes actively using social media channels to share updates on projects, recognizing employees and project partners for their accomplishments, and educating the market on the company’s culture, services, and capabilities.

“Our clients expect us to operate safely and at the leading edge of the construction industry and we pride ourselves on that,” Weber asserts.

GASTON ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION

The Vital Link in the Supply Chain Graybar is a leading distributor of high-quality electrical, communications and data networking products, and specializes in supply chain management and logistics services. Through a distribution network of 300 plus locations, Graybar helps its customers power, network and secure their facilities with speed, intelligence and efficiency.

Learn how Graybar can work to your advantage.

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Apex Lighting Solutions proudly provides lighting, controls & architectural product design assistance and procurement throughout New England.

We’d like to congratulate Gaston Electrical and the Design/Construction Teams on the Boston University Center for Computing & Data Sciences, the largest fossil fuel-free building in Boston. www.apexltg.com | www.apexibsolutions.com

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GASTON ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION

FIT FOR PURPOSE One of Gaston’s flagship projects includes the recently-completed Boston University Center for Computing & Data Sciences – a 19 story, 350,000 square foot (sqft) building for which the organization completed the core, shell, and fit-out

Boston University Center

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over a two-year period.

This new building, opened in December 2022, is heralded as the largest green building in Boston and has made a dramatic change to the city’s skyline with its iconic design.

Gaston’s project portfolio also boasts the sleek Park 151 (Parcel I) at

Cambridge Crossing in Cambridge, Massachusetts, a brand new 20-story residential building, fitted with 480 apartments.

Gaston performed all the electrical, telecoms, security, and audio-visual systems for the building. Notably, it also completed multiple other core and shell and tenant fit-up projects within Cambridge Crossing, which is one of the largest master-planned developments in the Greater Boston region in recent years.

With such impressive construction feats in its repertoire, Gaston is looking forward to continuing its upward trajectory with additional noteworthy projects across New England.

Namely, the company has recently begun a project for the MIT School of Architecture and Planning. The adaptive reuse project is taking place at the Metropolitan Storage Warehouse building which was built in 1895, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

“This dynamic project will preserve the historic character of the building while upgrading all its systems to meet 21st century higher education programming standards,” Weber adds.

Furthermore, the company has just begun work on the infrastructure, core and shell for a five-building campus in North Cambridge, just steps from the Alewife Station, a busy Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) hub. Thus, the company is making a positive contribution to the city’s campus-like environment and helping bolster the wider community of Cambridge.

“All of these projects are a testament to the fact that our customers are coming to us with large, complex proposals because they know our talented people possess the knowledge and hardworking attitude to get them done the right way,” Weber shares.

Park 151

PROVIDING THE PERFECT SUPPORT Gaston’s impressive operational capabilities would not be possible without its supply partners, who ensure that targets and expectations are routinely met.

“We consider our distributors, manufacturers, and factory representatives as true partners, as they are vital to the success of our operations.

“With long lead times for equipment from manufacturers, we especially depend on our partners today for creative solutions to meet each project’s budget and timeline,” he observes.

Whether it’s the smallest form of support, such as a pallet of CAT6

cable or a large order of conduit, Gaston’s suppliers are responsible for helping at every stage to sufficiently deliver its projects.

To ensure the best supply partners possible, the company has a list of specific vendors it uses for equipment and supplies. The list is carefully curated to ensure Gaston consistently receives fair pricing and excellent customer service.

Progressing into 2024, the company will persevere with its focus on the safety and well-being of its employees and project partners, as well as furthering the development of its BIM, design, and prefabrication processes. Although Gaston is already well-positioned in these areas, it endeavors to be best-in-class.

“We are good at many things, and we try to stay focused on what we’re good at. But we also continually ask ourselves - what small, incremental improvements can we make today that will help us tomorrow? How can we get better by one percent on each project?” concludes Weber.

GASTON ELECTRICAL Tel: 781-255-8881 talktous@gastonelectrical.com www.gastonelectrical.com North America Outlook Issue 20 | 15

GASTON ELECTRICAL Tel: 781-255-8881 talktous@gastonelectrical.com www.gastonelectrical.com

PRODUCED BY NORTH AMERICA OUTLOOK MAGAZINE