Mass Electric Construction Co. Finds Growth and Opportunity in Solar
A broadly respected name in electrical contraction across our region, Mass Electric Construction Co. (MEC) is built on nearly a century of growth and adaptation to expanding markets and new technologies., rooted in nearly a century of excellence and growth.
Francis Angino, a young electrical engineer, and entrepreneur, founded MEC in 1928, nurturing the company through the Great Depression and building its reputation on a succession of major projects, starting with the U.S. Postal Service Building in Boston, and including the Boston’s Central Artery/Tunnel and the Leonard P. Zakim Bridge.
Angino raised his sons Michael and Fanny in the business with both playing major roles in the company’s expansion. After the elder’s passing, his sons facilitated MEC’s acquisition by Kiewit Infrastructure Company in Omaha, Nebraska. A pivotal reorganization followed in 2006, splitting the company into two entities – a transportation division based in Dallas and the Boston location.
"The split was driven by the markets," explains Felix Senkovsky, MEC's Solar Sponsor. "The transportation team handles light rail transit projects, while we focus on industrial commercial work in Boston. We ventured into solar around 2010-2011, and solar now accounts for about 25% of our industrial revenue."
One of MEC’s earliest solar projects was a modest 70-kilowatt rooftop installation in Worcester, Massachusetts, in 2011. The project, while small, gave MEC a valuable footing in the solar industry, allowing the team to learn the technical intricacies and market potential. "At that time, solar was in its infancy," recalls Senkovsky. "It was an opportunity to explore the field and see if this could be a viable market for a union electrical contractor. Based on our performance, we were able to expand and increase our revenue exponentially year after year.”
The firm’s expanding solar portfolio includes the 3.6-MW solar farm in Groveland; a 20.3-MW solar farm in Spencer; and the Sun Edison solar installation in Andover, a rooftop install capable of producing more than 100,000 watts of DC power.
Such projects present unique challenges for electrical contractors, even those as experienced as MEC. High on that list are rigid timelines tied to government requirements as well as tax breaks that the developer client is counting on. Christopher Ivatts, MEC’s Solar Area Manager, underscores this dynamic, saying, "One of the biggest challenges we face with these projects is the rapid pace we have set to get them done. Sometimes it’s only three to four months from the day we mobilize to the day we energize. It’s fast, and we enjoy that challenge."
Beyond speed, MEC’s expansion into new regions brings unique workforce challenges, such as engaging with diverse labor pools and local International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) jurisdictions. According to Robert Brouillard, Senior Business Development Manager, “Moving into new markets, like our recent expansion into Maine and Illinois, involves working with different labor pools and multiple jurisdictions, and we have to move quickly. We need to be agile to secure strong local support, and now we have a solid presence and strong following in these areas.”
Helping fuel MEC’s growth is rising tide of solar adoption. Senkovsky points to rapid technological advancements in the industry, with solar panels today producing up to 700 watts—more than three times what was achievable in 2010. The cost of solar technology has simultaneously dropped by 65-70 percent. “Every year, solar gets more financially viable,” says Senkovsky. “When we started, panels were expensive and produced far less energy. Today, costs are down, and output is up, which is having a big impact.”
MEC’s solar team has also become adept at managing weather-related challenges. With sites spanning from coastal Massachusetts to ski ranges, the elements can be harsh and change on a dime. "When working in the winter, we strategize based on location,” says Brouillard. “It’s essential to have the right tools and gear for each job, from insulated gloves to footwear for walking on snow. Sometimes we have to shut down for safety, but the team knows how to adapt quickly.”
Senkovsky agrees, noting, “In solar, fast decision-making is key. Weather changes rapidly, so you need to react just as fast.”
One of MEC’s core strengths is its commitment to quality through union labor, which enables it to deliver high standards on demanding schedules. Senkovsky highlights this as a reason for MEC’s strong client relationships: "We are close to many owners and EPC contractors because we utilize union labor to execute at a high level and meet tight schedules. It’s performance-based, and that’s why so much business comes to us."
Mass Electric’s story is one of innovation, adaptability, and commitment to industry-leading standards. From a small local business to a nationwide powerhouse in electrical contracting and renewable energy, MEC’s dedication to excellence remains its hallmark.
Summing up his experience, Ivatts says the work with MEC is most rewarding. “I'm a craft electrician, Local 103. I came up through the ranks building this work and we love the challenge, we love the speed, and we meet so many new people, so it's a lot of fun.”