Original Don Morse Electric Storefront in Freeport, IL circa 1944

In December of 1944, The Morse Group began as a small family-owned electrical contracting company focused on providing electrical services to small commercial clients. With a staff of three, Don Morse Electric operated on the simple belief that customers deserved quality craftsmanship at a great value, delivered on-time.

When Don Morse Sr. passed away prematurely at the age of 39, his wife, Joyce, and son, Don Morse Jr., came together to run the family business. The pair set their sights on the future and began to differentiate Morse Electric from the competition through expansion and innovation. They went to work cultivating a team of talented individuals. This “team” quickly became Morse Electric’s greatest asset and the key to its success.

In the 70’s, Don’s wife Janey and brother David joined the family business.

As part of Morse Electric’s growth process, the company explored office locations across the nation – eventually settling on the nine office locations in the US today.

While focused on growing the business, The Morse’s, along with their children and employees gave generously to organizations that supported the local community. A tradition we’re proud to carry on to this day.

Over the years, the leadership team relied on their years of experience, knowledge of the electrical industry and most importantly their “gut” to make key decisions that proved pivotal for the business.

One such decision was acquiring Amp Electric in 1994. This acquisition solidified the company’s presence in Wisconsin and opened the door to several noteworthy projects.

Magazine clippings about Morse Electric
Group of people standing next to a business sign

Morse Electric invested heavily in technology ensuring the company was on the cutting edge of industry standards and made a series of strategic business moves in response to ever-changing customer needs.

The Morse Group business timeline

Another major milestone achieved in 2004 was the completion of our Beloit, WI office that would serve as the hub for Midwest Operations and brought together employees from the Janesville, WI and Rockford, IL offices.

By 2007, the company was well on its way to offering complete turnkey solutions and founded The Morse Group to oversee all operations.

2007 also saw the expansion into the Southwest with a pivotal project at McCarran Airport. Morse Electric’s Southwest hub went on to become a key player in the casino, resort, entertainment, and sports arena industries.

Crane setting steel beams for a construction project
McCarran Airport T3 Parking Ramp
McCarran Airport T3 Parking Ramp

In 2008, The Morse Group took note of the growing renewable energy market and seized the opportunity to become a key player in the alternative energy sector.

Solar Field

The company’s culture created an environment that encouraged pride and ownership amongst employees. With many building lifelong careers within the organization, even boasting many second and third generation team members. Their loyalty and commitment are key to the success of the company.

The Morse Group’s journey from a small electrical contractor to a diversified organization with a wide range of services is a testament to its dedication, adaptability, and strong leadership. Today, the company continues to see success, regularly ranking among EC&M’s Top 50 Electrical Contractors in the United States.

As we celebrate our 80th year, we look back with pride at all that we’ve accomplished and set our sights on an even brighter future.