The past year was very good for Arnold Electric, Inc. In 2010 AEI continued to strengthen both its electrical contracting and material handling divisions. AEI also continued to grow its third division of general contracting. The general contracting division focuses on remodeling projects. There was strengthening in the number of government and military projects, which lent credence to AEI’s current SBA 8(a) status. In addition to the projects that AEI undertook in 2010, there were a couple of honors that the company received in the past year.

Of significance in 2010, AEI was appointed by Tulsa’s mayor to the Electrical Examiners and Appeals Board and also participated in the SBA’s e200 training program.

Electrical Examiners and Appeals Board Appointment
Tulsa’s Mayor Dewey Bartlett appointed Arnold Electric Inc.’s president James Ryals to the Electrical Examiners and Appeals Board. James Ryals is one of two electrical contractors that sit on the seven person board. The appointment is given by the mayor and approved by the City Council. The board examines applications for electrical contractors, journeymen, and provides certification of competency. They also hear any appeals of applications as it refers to the National Electrical Code. Also, the board is available in an advisory capacity for the City Council. AEI is honored to have this appointment and to have its president appointed to this board.

SBA’s Emerging 200 Initiative
Arnold Electric, Inc. was also selected to participate in the SBA’s Emerging 200 initiative, also known as the e200. The e200 initiative started in 2008 as the inner-city program to help small businesses with high potential for growth. In 2009 it was announced that e200 would be expanded to include Native American communities after President Obama met with a national group of tribal leaders.

In 2010 the e200 nine-month training began in Tulsa with AEI identified as one of the high potential small businesses selected to participate. Some of the areas the classes focused on were accelerating growth of the businesses, how to diversify their markets, and exploring various forms of financing. There was also tremendous networking that was done among the students, the mentors, instructors, and classroom speakers. Also, as e200 is a SBA initiative there was much to be learned about government programs to assist small businesses.

Despite a poor overall economy in 2010, AEI remained solid and growing. Arnold Electric Inc. enjoyed its honors with its board appointment and SBA training selection this past year. Therefore, AEI is looking forward to a very good 2011.