Senator Pam Helming presented the New York State Senate Empire Award to O’Connell Electric Company during the 20th Annual Victor Business Awards, held at Ravenwood Golf Club. The award was presented to O’Connell Electric President and CEO Michael Parkes on behalf of the company, its employees, and generations of family leadership.

The New York State Senate Empire Award honors businesses and nonprofit organizations that make outstanding contributions to the growth, prosperity, and betterment of their community and New York State.

Senator Helming said, “O’Connell Electric is exactly the kind of business that helps drive our local economy and strengthen our communities. For more than a century, the Parkes family has built a company that creates good-paying jobs, supports skilled trades, and powers important projects across our region. Just as important, they have continued to give back to the communities that helped shape their success. That combination of hard work, local investment, and community commitment is what makes O’Connell Electric so deserving of this Empire Award.”

Founded in 1911, O’Connell Electric has grown into one of the largest electrical contractors in the nation, serving clients across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, and Southern states. The company’s work supports critical infrastructure, commercial and industrial projects, transportation systems, renewable energy, communications, and other essential services that communities and businesses rely on every day.

The company’s success is rooted in a long family legacy. Michael Parkes is a fifth-generation electrical construction professional. His grandfather purchased O’Connell Electric in 1968, his father, Tom Parkes, went on to serve as President and CEO, and today Michael continues that tradition of family-driven leadership.

O’Connell Electric’s impact extends well beyond the job site. The company has long supported the Mary M. Parkes Center for Asthma, Allergy, and Pulmonary Care, affiliated with the University of Rochester Medical Center, through volunteerism, financial contributions, and donated electrical services.

During the 2024-25 holiday season, O’Connell Electric contributed to twelve nonprofit organizations. In 2025, the company also committed $75,000 as the inaugural Title Partner for the Pluta Cancer Foundation’s Corporate Partners Program. In addition, O’Connell Electric has prioritized the well-being of its workforce by partnering with Sweethearts & Heroes to bring mental health and leadership programming to employees.

Michael Parkes, CEO of O’Connell Electric, says, “O’Connell Electric is honored to receive the prestigious New York State Empire Award, recognizing our continued commitment to excellence and community service. This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team, and the trust and partnership of our valued clients. We are proud to contribute to New York’s growth and innovation, and grateful for the opportunity to serve organizations and individuals throughout the state. We look forward to building on this success and serving our communities for years to come.”

Senator Helming represents the 54th Senate District, which includes Livingston, Ontario, and Wayne Counties, and parts of Monroe County.

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