Our visit to CMC Electric gave us an inside look at what it truly takes to build a business with both skill and strong values.
Owners Carrie and Michael Cushing, both Collinsville High School graduates, started their company in January 2008 out of their home, selling their truck to invest in a work van. From those humble beginnings, they grew into their first shop in 2012 and purchased their current building in 2021, creating a space that combines offices, meeting areas, and a warehouse under one roof. You can see that vision has been poured into their meeting space with an open air feel, 4 large screens, a kitchen and plenty of seating. It's so beautiful plus practical for their trainings, meetings and holiday parties.
Today, CMC Electric offers a wide range of services including residential and commercial new construction and remodeling, service work and troubleshooting, parking lot lighting with a bucket truck, generator installation, and even solar work. They are an open shop and are affiliated with the Independent Electrical Contractors of Greater St. Louis, with a strong apprenticeship program helping develop the next generation of electricians. They are also proudly certified as a WBENC business.
Their team continues to grow with 7 electricians, 5 apprentices, 6 office staff, and 3 “future" employees (their awesome kids), all rooted in a mission to provide a kind, friendly, and genuine experience.
Some powerful takeaways they shared with our students:
• Define your mission and core values early
• Start small - a lower overhead allows reinvestment
• Surround yourself with a strong team (attorney, accountant, insurance agent)
• Build relationships with mentors and even competitors
• Hire people you trust and treat them well
• Keep learning, take risks, and have the courage to step out
• Sometimes you have to spend money to make money
We are so thankful for this team. CMC Electric is an investor in our Gateway CEO program and Carrie serves on our board. Thank you for letting us get a glimpse into your business. The students also really appreciated the breakfast pizza and fruit!
