Big State Electric was founded in 1966 by Palmer and Jerry Johnson. The company provides electrical services, design/build, engineering, BIM services, tele/data, and excavation on a variety of projects such as schools, higher education, healthcare, office buildings, call centers, data centers, distribution and corporate campus facilities. On the industrial side, Big State Electric has performed work on breweries, bakeries, automotive centers, quarry/aggregate plants and fuel/oil facilities. Based in San Antonio with offices in Austin and Houston and more than 500 employees, it serves the surrounding rural area of Texas.

INVOLVEMENT WITH NECA

Real began serving on the South Texas Chapter’s Board of Directors in 2003. After 10 years as a trustee and many negotiation and special committees, he was elected President in 2013 and appointed Governor in 2016. He also served on the local JATC, first as a trustee from 1997-2006 and then as Chairman in 2007. He has served on many LMCC committees to develop plans to increase his company’s market share and form a better relationship with the local IBEW. On the national level, Real served on the CIR Panel in 2015-2016 representing NECA membership.

INDUSTRY OBSERVATIONS

There have been industry changes in regards to tools and fast-paced project schedules, but the technology that is available and currently used to share information immediately stands out. Some of the tools being using on the communication side are iPads, laptops, BIM, Bluebeam, PlanGrid and Trimble. Companies like Big State Electric have moved extremely fast with lean concepts, pre-fab, on-time delivery and shop drawings for all systems.

AWAY FROM THE OFFICE

Vincent and his wife Donna celebrated 32 years of marriage in May. They have a daughter, Kelsie, and son-in-law Preston as well as son Colton, who is employed with Big State Electric. They enjoy going to their lake house and spending quality family time with extended family and friends. Real also loves being outdoors, especially boat rides, water sports, barbecuing, hunting birds and deer or working on the farm or ranch