Electric Shop was founded in March of 1991 as a sole
proprietorship registered in Miami County, owned and operated by Gene and
Diann Farmer.
Prior to opening the Electric Shop Gene spent four years in the United States Navy, 15 years with Johnson County Sewer and Water District #1, 3 years with Taylor Forge, and 9 years with AEM. Diann, was employed at Lakemary for 15 years as a paraprofessional.
Electric Shop’s first location was on the west side of the square at 20 South Silver in Paola. The shop was primarily setup as an electrical repair shop with only a small amount of retail space at the front of the store.
In 1992, Mark joined the family business. Mark graduated Paola High School in 1988. After graduation, he served four years in the United States Navy and now serves in the Naval Reserves. In addition, Mark graduated from Johnson County Community College with a degree in Electronics Technology and holds a Master Electricians License.
Recognizing the opportunity for growth, the Electric Shop was incorporated in January of 1995. At this time the board of directors were formed from the current owners, Diann and Mark, lead by President Gene Farmer.
Fueling the growth additional space and a new location was found for the growing company. In February 1996, the Corporation purchased and began renovation of the 6,500 square foot building located at 1001 North Pearl. April of 1996 the new location was opened for business and in conjunction celebrated its 5 year anniversary.
In June of 1998, Matt Farmer joined the management team as well as a member on the Board of Directors. Matt graduated Paola High School in 1985 and served four years in the United States Marine Corps. After leaving active duty Matt received a degree in Electronics Engineering from DeVry Institute. Upon graduation, he accepted a position with Lam Research Inc. in Silicon Valley and then later took a position with the Intel Corporation.
In August of 1999, Mark was elected President of the corporation and long time employee Janice Farmer was elected to the Board of Directors.
Today, the Electric Shop and all its employees are still committed to
providing the community a complete line of commercial and residential electrical
supplies and services the safe way.