Founder / Chairman Of The Board
William Gillespie Jr.
PHONE: 215-679-8091 x21
William Gillespie Jr. began his electrical career through training in the U.S. Navy. After serving, he worked for contractors but felt he could offer a better work environment and benefits. In 1973, Bill started Gillespie Electric from his parents' home, soon joined by his brother Jerry, who was also Navy-trained in electrical work. In the early years, the company focused on residential projects, expanding to commercial projects in the 1980s. By the mid-90s, Gillespie Electric had grown significantly, completing large-scale projects, such as the SEI Corp Center, and garnering industry recognition, including a prestigious National Award of Excellence from ABC in 1997.
With a strong belief in merit-based pay, employee training, safety, and giving back to the community, Bill expanded the company’s operations. In 2005, the company moved to a new office/warehouse, continuing to grow and navigate challenges such as the economic downturn of 2008. Under Bill’s leadership, the company expanded to 65 employees and averaged $16–17 million in annual revenue by the time of his retirement in 2018, marking 45 years of success.
Throughout his career, Bill remained committed to the company’s employees, believing their dedication was key to Gillespie Electric’s success. He and his wife Bonnie also believed strongly in giving back, making annual donations to local organizations such as churches, Open Link, YMCA, and the Upper Perkiomen Valley Chamber of Commerce.