May 2026 – VICTOR, N.Y. – O’Connell Electric Company has been recognized with the New York State Empire Award, an honor presented during the 20th Annual Victor Business Awards at Ravenwood Golf Club.
The New York State Empire Award recognizes businesses and nonprofit organizations that make outstanding contributions to the growth, prosperity, and betterment of their communities and New York State.
Founded in 1911, O’Connell Electric has grown into one of the nation’s largest electrical contractors, supporting clients across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southern states. The company’s work spans critical infrastructure, commercial and industrial projects, transportation systems, renewable energy, low voltage, and other essential services that communities and businesses rely on every day.
“This recognition means a great deal to our company because it reflects more than the work we do in the field, it’s the people behind it,” said Michael Parkes, CEO of O’Connell Electric. “We are honored to receive the New York State Empire Award and grateful for the trust our clients, partners, and communities continue to place in us. This award is a credit to our employees and to the generations of leadership that have helped shape O’Connell Electric into what it is today.”
O’Connell Electric’s history is closely tied to a long-standing family legacy in the electrical construction industry. Michael Parkes is a fifth-generation electrical construction professional. His grandfather purchased O’Connell Electric in 1968, his father, Tom Parkes, later served as President and CEO, and today Michael continues that tradition of family-led leadership.
The company’s impact extends beyond its project work. O’Connell Electric has supported the Mary M. Parkes Center for Asthma, Allergy, and Pulmonary Care through volunteerism, financial contributions, and donated electrical services. During the 2024–25 holiday season, the company contributed to 12 nonprofit organizations, and in 2025 committed $75,000 as the inaugural title partner for the Pluta Cancer Foundation’s Corporate Partners Program.
“We are proud to contribute to New York’s growth and to serve organizations and communities throughout the state,” Parkes said. “We remain committed to delivering quality work, supporting our people, and continuing to invest in the communities where we live and work.” For more than a century, O’Connell Electric has built its reputation on skilled craftsmanship, strong client relationships, and a commitment to building quality projects. Receiving the New York State Empire Award is a meaningful recognition of that legacy and of the employees who continue to carry it forward every day.
