Zenor Electric Company Receives Small Business Award

Thursday, September 17, 2020

Main News Photo

Zenor Electric started in 1982 by Larry Zenor and one other person. Dusty Moore purchased the business in 2001 and today has 28 full-time employees. The business began in the back of Cooper Tire, and at one point moved to South Hutchinson, before ultimately ending up on West 4th Street across from the COOP in 1998, where it operates today. Since Dusty purchased the business in 2001, they have added on to the original building, purchased the building to the west for warehouse storage and also purchased the lot to the south of the business for additional vehicle and trailer parking. Most recently they remodeled the main office space and added a conference room.

At Zenor Electric they do everything from the smallest jobs to the biggest ones as well.  They provide all types of residential and light commercial electrical services, as well as data networking, fiber optics, and medium voltage needs for places like Krause Plow, NCRA Refinery, Cargill, and more. They also provide many kinds of electrical services and cabling needs including new construction, major remodels, and commercial remodels.  Larry strived for a superior product and professional service and that commitment lives on today. 

When asked what is unique about his business, Dusty says it’s the employees and the advanced level of training they all have. Each of his employees has completed a 5-year apprenticeship program through the IBW-NECA and they receive six hours of continuing education each year. They are highly capable and well trained for the service they provide. 

The economic ups and downs always present the greatest challenge for them. Dusty purchased the business in May of 2001, only four months before the events of September 11th took place.  However, if the oil and gas sector, as well as the farming sector, are doing well, they stay busy. The latest challenge has been with COVID-19, causing them to have to furlough 16 employees. Fortunately, between the Paycheck Protection Program and funds available through the CARES Act, they were able to bring those employees back to work after four weeks. Currently, the challenge is finding enough work to keep their employees busy. Supply procurement is starting to become an issue due to the number of plants that have shut down production. This has resulted in a rise in material costs, which suppliers are having to pass along now to the contractors.

Dusty believes in being involved in the community and serving with his time and resources. He has been on the Board of the Home Builder’s Association and during that time, Zenor Electric participated in building a home for a lady on Hendricks street.  Zenor Electric also did all the electrical wiring for Reins of Hope when they built their new building on Obee Road.  In addition, Dusty has served on the Code Review Board for the City of Hutchinson, is a graduate of Leadership Reno County, has served as a judge for Skills USA, has served on the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee Board and the National Electrical Contractors Association Board.  Dusty and his wife are also donors to the Hutchinson Community Foundation and support their church with their time and resources as well.

Thank you, Dusty, for all you do for our community!

Category: SBA