F.D. Hayes Celebrates a Century of Service

Just one year after being named Entrepreneur of the Year in the 2021 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards, Megan Doherty is planning the centennial celebration of the business she leads, F.D. Hayes Electric Co.

“Being named the 2021 Greater Lansing Entrepreneur of the Year was a huge honor. It also felt very symbolic as the capstone of a successful transition for F.D. Hayes that began back in 2016 when my husband, Charlie, and I purchased the company from my dad, Patrick Hayes,” explained Doherty. “That’s when he laid out his plan for his retirement and for us to move forward as the fourth generation of the Hayes family to own and run the company.”

As F.D. Hayes closes out its 99th year in business, the future is looking brighter and greener — puns intended.

“We could not be more excited about what the future holds,” said Doherty. “Because, as an electrical contractor, we have an exciting emerging market at our fingertips. We have been hard at work this year preparing to be a local leader and trusted resource for all things electrical vehicle charging, including preparing the infrastructure of homes and businesses.”

Although EVs are still early in their adoption, Doherty is encouraging her customers and community to begin thinking down the road.

“Now is the time to understand what your current electrical system’s capacity is to get an idea of what charging options are possible or what upgrades may be necessary to meet future EV charging needs,” she said.

In anticipation of the demand and unique requirements of EV charging, F.D. Hayes has already invested in a lot of training for its leaders, sales team and electricians.

“One of the things our customers value most about us is our ability to offer turnkey solutions,” said Doherty. “In the case of EV charging, we know this means we will be there every step of the way, from planning, design and installation — and afterwards we are here for service and maintenance too.”

It remains to be seen what honors the company will garner in the next 100 years, but the prospects look good.