NEI | About Us

About NEI Electric

Learn more about NEI Electric's history, process, state licenses, and qualifications.

The Making of NEI Electric

Our History

Delivering excellence & safety since 1952.

We are proud of the outstanding professional service provided in the past to our loyal customers, and we pledge to continue this same quality service into the future.

Today

Powering The Nation

NEI Electric Inc is one company located in both Minnesota and Wisconsin, proudly serving the nation as a strong electrical contractor.

2000's

Refining Times

2004 - Claude M. Anderson Electric acquired the majority interest in Northern Electricians, Inc., marking a key milestone in the company's evolution. Joe Bembnister and John Gerlach joined as partners, further strengthening the leadership team.

2007 - Nan Renstrom, who had been with the company for 13 years, became treasurer and partner, bringing her expertise to the forefront of NEI Electric's operations.

2009 - The company officially adopted the name NEI Electric, unifying Claude M. Anderson Electric and Northern Electricians, Inc., under one recognized brand. That same year, Larry Koenig, Safety Director, joined as a partner, contributing to NEI's culture of safety and excellence.

2014 - Jon Reedy, now the current President of NEI Electric, became a partner, helping to lead the company into a new era of innovation and collaboration.

2020 - The St. Paul office relocated to its current location, accompanied by the addition of Matt Preston as a partner. This move signaled NEI’s commitment to modernizing its operations and supporting growth.

2022 - NEI Electric expanded through the acquisition of Ben Franklin Electric, further broadening its capabilities. John Gerlach retired after years of dedicated service.

2023 - Paul Corey joined the leadership team as a partner, bringing a wealth of expertise and experience to the company.

2024 - NEI Electric expanded its Wisconsin operations, moving its Eau Claire office to a new, modern location featuring a state-of-the-art prefabrication facility. This strategic move further enhanced NEI's ability to serve clients across the Midwest. NEI Electric also acquired Wergedal Electric and Joe Bembnister retired

1940's

Training & Roots

Claude Anderson trained as an electrician during World War II.

1945 - After returning home, he worked as a residential contractor out of his garage on the east side of St. Paul, MN.

1990's

Healthy Growth

1994 - An additional shop was opened in Menominee, WI

1997 - Moved the location to Eau Claire, WI and acquired Sherman Electric

1998 - Northern Electricians, Inc. acquired Halvorson Electric

1980's

Expansion to St. Croix Falls

Bob Rawlings became the sole owner of Northern Electricians, Inc. out of St Croix Falls, WI.

1970's

Rawlings & New Partnerships

1975 - Marv wanted to retire, so Bob Rawlings became a Northern Electricians, Inc. Partner

1960's

Eibs & Roberts

1961 - Northern Electricians, Inc. of WI was founded and incorporated by Donald Eibs & Marv Roberts

1950's

Incorporating

Claude & Jeanette Anderson started Claude M. Anderson Electric Company aka Anderson Electric.

1959 - Claude M. Anderson Electric Co. of MN became incorporated and evolved into the commercial segment

Project Approach

Our Process

At NEI, we take every project seriously. We strive to provide efficient project management, exceed safety standards, and complete inspections to ensure compliance to codes and regulations.

Collaborative Design & Discovery

NEI begins with a thorough consultation to understand the client’s needs, facility requirements, and long-term goals, including site assessments and project reviews. By listening closely, we tailor the project plan to meet industry regulations and operational objectives, ensuring maximum value.

Efficient Project Management

NEI provides customized design/build or design/assist services, working with contractors and engineers to create detailed electrical plans. We focus on innovation and precision for efficient, long-term systems. Our certified team ensures compliant installation, with project managers overseeing timelines, client communication, and issue resolution.

Comprehensive Lifecycle Support

Once installation is complete, NEI conducts thorough testing to ensure all systems are fully operational and compliant with local codes and safety standards. Final inspections are done, and the system is ready to go.

Think Safety. work safely.

State Licenses:

NEI Proudly Services the Following States

Minnesota

Wisconsin

Iowa

North Dakota

South Dakota

Colorado

Nebraska

Qualifications

View everything from the states were licensed in to required certifications for our technicians.

State Licenses
  • Minnesota
  • Wisconsin
  • Iowa
  • North Dakota
  • South Dakota
  • Colorado
  • Nebraska
Foreman & Service Electrician Requirements
  • State Electrical License
  • National Electrical Code (NEC) Update
  • First Aid CPR
  • Leadership Training
  • IBEW Code of Excellence Certificate OSHA
  • OSHA 10 Hour
  • Background Security Checks on all Service Department Technicians
  • Drug & Alcohol Testing
Certifications

Our Foreman & Service Electrician Requirements require the following certifications:

  • ASHE Healthcare Construction Certification for medical facilities
  • High Voltage Cable Splicing
  • NFPA 70-E
  • HVAC Certification
Professional Memberships
  • National Electrical Contractor’s Association (NECA) -
  • St. Paul Chapter, Charter Member since 1952, Wisconsin Chapter since 1967
  • U.S. Green Building Council, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
  • American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE)
  • The Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Wisconsin
  • American Subcontractors Association (ASA)
  • Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA)
  • Commercial Healthcare Contractors (CHC)
  • Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC)
  • Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corporation
  • Polk County Economic Development Corporation
  • St. Croix County Economic Development Corporation
  • The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce
  • Falls Chamber of Commerce
  • Midwest Food Processors Association
  • Wisconsin Healthcare Engineering Association (WHEA)
  • Electrical Work Force