Gaylor Electric Upskilling Lights the Way for Workforce Growth

Founded over 42 years ago, Gaylor Electric has grown into one of the nation’s leading electrical specialty contractors, delivering commercial and industrial projects across the United States. From Amazon distribution centers to cutting-edge data centers, the company prides itself on tackling complex projects with a highly skilled workforce. According to Jeff Bryant, Director of Gaylor University, “Our entire company is built on the idea that we have to hire great people and then make sure that we train those people to do their jobs at the highest level possible.”

Upskilling has been a cornerstone of Gaylor Electric since its inception. The company partners with Associated Builders and Contractors’ apprenticeship programs and maintains a robust pipeline through internships, career centers, and outreach to schools. At any given time, Gaylor supports approximately 800 apprentices and 200 interns, ensuring a steady flow of talent into the industry.

The upskilling process begins on day one. Every employee undergoes an assessment during orientation to identify strengths and areas for growth. From there, Gaylor creates individualized education plans tailored to each role. Training is continuous throughout an employee’s career, supported by craft instructors who travel nationwide to provide on-site coaching. “It starts on day one and ends on that employee’s last day,” Bryant explains. “It doesn’t stop.”

This commitment has paid off. Gaylor boasts one of the most highly trained craft workforces in the industry, enabling the company to deliver exceptional results on complex projects. Upskilling is deeply ingrained in the culture, with educational goals tracked monthly and displayed on dashboards in executive offices. Employees receive transcripts of their progress, reinforcing transparency and career growth opportunities. “If you don’t live it every day, if you don’t talk about it every day, it’s not going to be met,” Bryant emphasizes.

The benefits extend beyond performance. Upskilling boosts retention and engagement by offering clear career pathways. Employees know what skills and certifications lead to advancement, and wage increases follow a merit-based philosophy. Those who embrace training and apply new skills on the job are rewarded, creating a culture of continuous learning and measurable achievement.

For employees like Aaliyah Massengill, the impact is life-changing. Aaliyah began her journey at The Crossing, a high school located in Gaylor’s Production Innovation Center, where she participated in two summer internships that introduced her to the electrical trade. “I transferred to The Crossing because of the opportunities that were provided and the care the faculty and people showed for their students. While at The Crossing, I did the summer internship for two years which helped me get more knowledge of the trade and what to expect. I am currently in my second year of Gaylor’s apprenticeship and have been able to further my education while building my career,” says Massengill, now thriving in her role as an A2 (Apprentice, Level 2).

When it comes to companies considering upskilling, Bryant offers clear advice: “You’ve got to have people dedicated to it. You have to invest in your people because the only way you’re going to grow and lead the industry is by investing in education.” With over 1,200 courses in its learning management system and a team devoted to workforce development, Gaylor Electric exemplifies how strategic upskilling can transform a business, and an industry.

To learn more about Gaylor Electric, visit gaylor.com.

Power Up Indiana is a new incentive program rewarding employers to grow wages, build stronger teams, and turn talent development into a long-term business advantage. To learn more about Power Up Indiana, visit powerup.dwd.in.gov.