From complex industrial projects to straightforward tenant improvements, Capital Electric has been consulting, designing, estimating and installing commercial and industrial electrical projects for 40 years.
Capital Electric takes on commercial and industrial projects that run the gamut from new construction, remodels, and tenant improvements. The company also handles lighting retrofits for energy savings, solar power, and street light installation and repairs.
The Capital Electric team puts the customer first and delivers quality results – from start to finish – on every project, with licensed electricians who are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
And Capital Electric’s long list of loyal clients – many of the relationships going back decades – underscores just how important stellar customer service is to partners Chuck Papiez, Josh O’Byrne, and Krista O’Byrne.
Company History
The company has a long history in Thurston County. Capital Electric was originally founded in 1972 by Harlan Kirchmeier. When Chuck Papiez began his electrical apprenticeship in 1973, he rotated through Capital Electric. Chuck returned in 1977 to work full-time at Capital Electric.
Eighteen years later, Chuck and his wife, Mary, purchased the business. Mary played an active role in the business, managing all aspects of the office.
Josh, who grew up in Olympia, began working for an electrician when he was in high school. After graduating from college, he joined the IBEW Local 76, a commercial electrical apprenticeship program, spending one year working with Chuck.
After working for another local electrical business for 15 years, Josh rejoined Chuck at Capital Electric. Krista, Josh’s wife, joined the business when Mary was ready to retire. Krista is responsible for all office management duties plus payroll and marketing tasks.
Delivering Service to Loyal Customers
As partners, Chuck, Josh and Krista share many of the responsibilities of running a long-time business. Chuck still handles much of the day-to-day work as a project manager and estimator.
“He still designs the actual plans, from the ground up, for buildings we work on,” explains Josh.
With between five to nine experienced, licensed electricians in the field, Capital Electric provides high quality service to its steadfast customer base. “All of our electricians know our loyal customers,” explains Josh.
Chuck has built the business on relationships he has forged for decades. Josh touts the company’s competitive pricing and consistent delivery of services. For example, Capital Electric has been working with Kaufman Brothers Construction since 1977.
“We value our customers and we show that by arriving on time and promptly handling emergencies. We strive to make sure the customer knows they are first,” describes Josh.
Capital Electric’s projects often include lighting in private residential developments and private parking lots. The company also installs emergency power generators during power outages and performs 24/7 emergency electrical work.
In case of a power outage, Capital Electric is also at the ready with an industrial-size generator on a trailer. Capital Electric hooks up the generator to get the customer back in business.
Community Support
As a locally owned company, Capital Electric believes strongly in giving back to its community. Capital Electric not only donates financial support but also helps groups set up their electrical needs during special events.
Capital Electric consistently sponsors any employee’s child’s team, such as baseball, football, and swimming teams.
Thurston County residents will recognize Capital Electric’s support of the Boys and Girls Club, Olympic Flight Museum, Saint Martin’s University’s athletic association, Olympia Kiwanis and many more local groups.
Krista serves as the President of the Junior League of Olympia and is also a member of Providence St. Peter Foundation’s Christmas Forest Executive Committee.
Capital Electric, including Chuck, Josh, Krista and the company’s experienced employees, consistently provides high quality electrical services to its customers.
“We are locally owned and have been in business for a long time. We make sure our customers know that we’re working for them, and we deliver,” summarizes Josh.
Capital Electric
3035 – 37th Ave SW
Tumwater, WA 98512
360.357.3307
