In 1956, Ogburn Electric was founded on a simple but powerful belief: Do the job right. Do what you say. Put people first.
At a time when handshake agreements still sealed the deal, that mindset wasn’t just good business — it was a way of life. The company was built on craftsmanship, accountability, and a deep respect for customers and community. From modest beginnings to becoming one of the most trusted electrical contractors in the region, that foundation has never shifted.
Seventy years later, that commitment to integrity continues to define who we are.
As Ogburn Electric celebrates our 70th anniversary in 2026, we’re proud to reflect on the leadership, craftsmanship, and relationships that have shaped our reputation across Winston-Salem and throughout North Carolina. What began as a local electrical company has grown into a multi-generational legacy — powered not just by electricity, but by trust.
A Legacy of Leadership
Under the leadership of President Sam H. Ogburn, the company has continued the standard set by its founders — raising the bar for electrical service year after year.
Sam has been an NC Unlimited License holder since 1981 and has played a leadership role within the North Carolina Association of Electrical Contractors (NCAEC), serving as past president and long-time board member. His involvement at the state level reflects a deep commitment not only to Ogburn Electric, but to advancing the electrical trade across North Carolina.
But leadership isn’t about titles.
It’s about accountability — to customers, employees, and the community.
It means standing behind your work, answering the phone, and making things right, even when it’s difficult.
As Sam puts it:
“Whether it’s a man’s faith, family, friends or business, integrity is the guiding force.”
That philosophy has carried Ogburn Electric through seven decades of growth — through economic shifts, technological change, and industry evolution. While tools and technology have advanced, the core principle of doing what’s right has never wavered.
Commercial Electrical Expertise That Lasts
While we proudly serve both residential and commercial clients, commercial electrical work has long been a cornerstone of our company.
Over the years, Ogburn Electric has powered projects including:
- Medical and veterinary offices
- Banks and financial institutions
- Industrial facilities
- Retail centers and restaurants
- Churches and educational buildings
These projects demand precision, planning, and deep technical knowledge. From ground-up construction to renovations and system upgrades, our team understands that commercial electrical systems must be safe, scalable, and built for long-term performance.
For new construction, our experienced estimating team — with decades of combined experience — uses advanced digital estimating systems to guide customers through options, timelines, and cost considerations. We collaborate closely with general contractors, architects, and property owners to ensure seamless coordination from blueprint to final inspection.
Furthermore, we believe in transparency. Plus, we believe in value engineering. And we believe in putting the client’s long-term success first.
Often, that means recommending smarter solutions that save money without sacrificing quality. It means designing systems that improve efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and support future growth. Our goal isn’t just to complete a project — it’s to build lasting partnerships.
Technology That Keeps Us Ahead
Even after 70 years, we never stop improving.
The electrical industry continues to evolve, and so do we. Ogburn Electric utilizes cutting-edge technology both in the office and in the field:
- Digital estimating tools
- Onsite access to blueprints and change orders
- Streamlined communication systems
- Fast response times for service calls
Our technicians are equipped with modern tools that allow them to troubleshoot efficiently, communicate in real time, and adapt quickly to changes on the job site. This reduces delays, improves accuracy, and ensures projects stay on schedule.
When customers call, they speak to a real person. And in many cases, we can have a crew onsite quickly for both residential and commercial service needs.
Experience matters. But so does efficiency.
We deliver both.
Loyalty That Goes Both Ways
One of the strongest indicators of integrity isn’t marketing — it’s longevity.
Many members of the Ogburn Electric team have been with the company for 10, 20, even 30+ years. That kind of retention doesn’t happen by accident. It reflects a workplace culture built on respect, opportunity, and shared values.
We invest in:
- Ongoing safety training
- Skill development
- Professional growth opportunities
- Team-building and company culture
Safety is never optional. Continuing education is encouraged. Apprentices are mentored. Experienced electricians are empowered to lead. We believe that when employees feel valued and supported, they take pride in their work — and that pride shows in every finished project.
Because exceptional service starts with a team that feels valued and supported.
As Sam often says:
“It’s never all about money. It’s about doing what’s right.”
That mindset extends to how we treat employees, customers, and partners alike.
Serving the Community Since Day One
Our commitment extends beyond job sites.
From the beginning, Ogburn Electric has believed that business success and community responsibility go hand in hand. We don’t just work here — we live here.
Ogburn Electric proudly:
- Supports veterans and seniors
- Offers discounts to nonprofit organizations
- Participates in local business and contractor associations
- Serves communities within 25 miles of Winston-Salem
By staying active in professional associations and local initiatives, we help strengthen the industries and neighborhoods that have supported us for decades.
For 70 years, we’ve believed that strong businesses build strong communities.
70 Years — And We’re Just Getting Started
On Sam’s desk sits a simple reminder engraved with three words:
Never Never Quit.
That mindset has carried Ogburn Electric through seven decades of change, growth, and innovation. Through industry shifts, economic cycles, and technological transformation, perseverance and integrity have remained constant.
As we look toward the future, we remain committed to the same core values that started it all in 1956 — quality workmanship, honest communication, and putting people first.
And it’s the same mindset that will guide us for the next 70 years.
Need a trusted commercial or residential electrical partner?
📞 Call Ogburn Electric at (336) 924-5166
📍 Serving Winston-Salem and surrounding communities since 1956
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