Atlantic Electric, LLC is a family-owned electrical contracting company based in Charleston, South Carolina, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1969 by Legrand and Nell Richardson. Initially established as a merit shop electrical contractor, Atlantic Electric quickly made a name for itself in the Charleston area, growing rapidly throughout the 1970s and becoming one of the largest electrical contractors in the state by 1980.
The Richardson family has played a vital role in the company's success, with children Nancy, Lee, Lodema, and Mike each contributing to the business from a young age. They later became the second generation of owners, taking over the management in 1986. Under their leadership, Atlantic Electric flourished until the late 1990s, when it transitioned through several ownership changes—first becoming part of Building One Services Corporation and then merging with Group Maintenance Corporation to form Encompass Services Corporation.
In a significant turn of events, Lee and Lodema decided to leave the company in 2001 due to dissatisfaction with its direction. However, Mike remained to help manage operations, and in 2003, following the bankruptcy of Encompass Services Corporation, Lee and Mike successfully repurchased Atlantic Electric, allowing it to return to its roots and regain its foothold in the industry.
Today, Atlantic Electric is recognized as a top-tier electrical contractor in South Carolina, serving diverse sectors including commercial, industrial, and institutional electrical installations. The company holds an unlimited electrical contracting license and specializes in low voltage installations, infrared testing, thermal imaging, structured data cable, fiber optic installations, and more.
With a dedicated workforce, comprised mainly of journeyman and master electricians, Atlantic Electric is committed to quality and safety. The company's culture focuses on employee training and development, with many electricians trained through registered apprenticeship programs. This focus on skilled labor and family values continues to drive Atlantic Electric's mission to deliver exceptional electrical services across the Charleston area and beyond.
