Talk of the Trade: Sheldon Nichols
"The electrical sector is rapidly changing with advancements in technology. But that's what makes our trade so enjoyable and exciting — there are always opportunities to innovate, learn and try new things."
The last time we Q&A’d with Sheldon Nichols, Founder and CEO of Nichols Electric, change was in the air. Spring had sprung, and a light at the end of the long dark pandemic tunnel was finally becoming visible.
Over the last six months, that feeling of change has endured, but in new and exciting ways. The Nichols Electric team has been focusing on growth of the business, seizing critical opportunities to embrace new technology, take on more complex projects, and strengthen relationships. And we’re proud to say the hard work has been paying off.
Here’s what Sheldon had to say about this pivotal moment in Nichols Electric’s story.
Since our last Q&A, how have you grown professionally, and what does that growth mean to you?
I’ve always felt that if you’re not progressing in life, you’re going backwards — and I think that applied to business too. I’m happy to report that since the last Q&A, Nichols Electric has seen a massive shift. Whereas before we were only working in the field, we’re now also focusing on growing and developing the business. We took a deep dive into the structure and processes of the organization recently that revealed new ways we could improve service, create efficiencies and scale the business. I’m really proud of how far we’ve come.
What’s one of your favourite projects the Nichols Electric team has worked on? What makes it stand out for you?
That’s a hard question, because there are so many. But if I have to choose, our larger scale industrial and automation projects stand out the most. They tend to be multi-faceted, involve many different players, and require more planning beforehand — all of which makes them different from other projects. The deadlines are usually tight too. We don’t want our clients to have more downtime than they planned, so that adds a level of excitement and accomplishment when we hit the mark. And as a business owner, seeing how much my team members grow after each of these projects, both personally and professionally, is really fulfilling.
What do you enjoy most about being an electrician?
Like many others, the electrical sector is rapidly changing with continuous advancements in technology. Every day it seems like there’s a new tool or way of working that increases efficiency, like artificial intelligence for example. But this is what makes our trade extremely enjoyable and exciting. There are constantly opportunities to innovate, learn and try new things.
Are there any local Camrose businesses, organizations or events that you’d like to give a shoutout too? What do they bring to the community?
I’d personally like to give a shout out to a few great people at the Camrose RONA: Dave Kowal, General Manager, and Brian Schuster and Gerald McGill at the contractors desk. They’ve consistently provided excellent service to us for over 15 years. Not only are they always willing to help, but they’re always up for a few friendly jabs and a good laugh.
How will you be spending your time outside of work this summer?
Our biggest summer plan is actually a week-long road trip touring the northern United States. With backpacks and hiking poles in hand, we’re looking forward to getting some fresh air, decompressing, and putting on some foot miles in the beautiful wilderness.
