NECA

Raymond K. Friend

Vice President, District 8
President, Electric Service & Contracting Company, Inc. Boise, ID
Member, Idaho Chapter, NECA

Background

Friend received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Boise State University with a background in electrical engineering and construction management. Prior to joining Electric Service Company, he worked as a project engineer for ASC Constructors, a large general contracting company specializing in hydroelectric power plant projects. Friend also worked for J.U.B. Engineers as a design engineer in their hydroelectric power plant department.

Company Information

Electric Service Company was founded 1921 in Boise, Idaho. Ray’s father, C. E. “Gene” Friend, joined the company in the early 1950s as a journeyman electrician. Gene worked his way through the business as General Foreman, chief estimator, general manager and finally purchased the company in 1980. Ray joined the company in 1982 and purchased it in 1986 when his father retired. Today, Electric Service Company serves the commercial and industrial markets and specializes in the healthcare and high tech industries throughout the Northwest.

Involvement With NECA

Electric Service Company joined NECA in 1979 and Friend was elected to the Idaho Chapter Board of Directors in 1986. Since then, he has served his chapter as treasurer, vice-president, president and governor. He also served on the local JATC and currently serves on the local negotiating committee and the Boise City Electrical Appeals Committee. Friend is a trustee for the 8th District Health Fund.

On the national level, Friend has represented the 8th District on the Manpower Development Committee and the Government Affairs Committee. He was inducted into the Academy of Electrical Contracting in 2006. Ray chairs the 2010 NECA Codes and Standards Committee.

What’s The Most Important Service Neca Offers?

Friend was introduced to NECA by his father, and he has always taken advantage of NECA’s vast education services to assist in the management and growth of the company and to stay competitive in the industry. “Technology has exploded since the 1980s,” he said. “With the constant changes, it is critical to always be aware of new potential markets and to keep current in the products, tools and techniques to remain competitive.” Friend also finds being involved in the apprenticeship training process is important to his business.

“The opportunity to ‘network’ with my peers on both the local and national levels has been an invaluable personal asset as well,” he said.

Away From The Office

Ray and his wife Nancy have one daughter and two sons. Nancy is an elementary school counselor in the Meridian School District. Ray is a private pilot and enjoys flying his plane in the Idaho backcountry. He and Nancy also enjoy travel, camping, hiking, boating and golf.