The Electric Link. February 2026 Edition 

Southwest Industrial Electric | February 2026 

Welcome to the February 2026 Edition of The Electric Link. 

As the year gains momentum, Southwest Industrial Electric remains focused on steady execution, proactive planning, and strong partnerships. Our teams continue advancing active projects while supporting clients through coordinated design, construction, and long-term infrastructure planning. 

This edition highlights upcoming industry events, ongoing project work, and practical insights to help facility owners and project teams stay prepared in a fast-moving environment. 

Upcoming Events. Industry Connections to Start the Year 

EV Summit & Expo, Las Vegas 

March 17 to 19, 2026 

Southwest Industrial Electric will be represented at the EV Summit & Expo in Las Vegas this March, with company leaders speaking on scalable infrastructure and turnkey project delivery in the EV space. 

Kristin Larson, Chief Executive Officer, and Derek Carley will lead and participate in two key sessions focused on long-term site performance and coordinated project execution. 

Derek Carley will serve on the panel Designing for Scale: Future-Proofing Your Charging Site from Day One, which explores how early design decisions support growth, reduce retrofit costs, and improve return on investment. 

Kristin Larson and Derek Carley will also participate in the Shop Talk session, How Electrical Teams Can Build Better Business Through Turnkey Projects. This discussion will focus on how integrated electrical teams improve coordination, reduce delays, and deliver stronger outcomes for owners, developers, and operators. 

Registration is recommended, as Shop Talk sessions often reach capacity. Attendees are encouraged to sign up early to secure a seat, engage with industry peers, and gain practical insight into turnkey electrical delivery and scalable EV infrastructure. 

To register, visit: Register Here 

Project Spotlight. EV Charger Installation for Commercial Property 

Southwest Industrial Electric is supporting the Ionna EV Chargers project in Orange, California, with a full civil and electrical infrastructure buildout to deliver reliable, high-capacity EV charging and support future expansion. 

Project Overview 

• Project: Ionna EV Chargers, Orange, CA 

Scope Summary 

This project includes site preparation, trenching, concrete work, and paving to support new charging infrastructure. The team is installing a new utility feeder and 3,000A switchboard, distributing power to six DC fast chargers, and providing protective bollards and site lighting. Work also includes coordination with the utility, system connections, and on-site support through commissioning. The result is a durable, scalable EV charging site built for long-term performance and growing demand. 

This Date in Electrical History. February and the Rise of Electric Power Distribution 

In February 1882, Thomas Edison began operating one of the world’s first commercial power stations, the Pearl Street Station in New York City. The system delivered direct current electricity to homes and businesses in Lower Manhattan. 

For the first time, electricity moved beyond laboratories and private generators into a centralized public service. Power became reliable, metered, and scalable. This shift made large commercial buildings, factories, and urban infrastructure possible. Modern electrical distribution systems trace their roots to this early power network. 

Infrared Inspections. Seeing Risk Before It Becomes a Problem 

Infrared inspections use thermal imaging to identify abnormal heat in electrical systems. These heat patterns often point to loose connections, overloaded circuits, failing components, or imbalanced loads that are not visible during a standard visual inspection. 

By detecting issues early, infrared inspections help reduce unplanned downtime, support maintenance planning, and improve overall system reliability. They are commonly used in active facilities because the equipment remains energized during the inspection, providing a realistic view of operating conditions. 

For commercial and industrial facilities, routine infrared inspections support safer operations, longer equipment life, and more informed repair decisions before minor issues escalate. 

Meet the Team – Sofia Johnson 

Meet Administrative Assistant Sofia Johnson 

This month, we highlight Sofia Johnson, a key member of our administrative team who helps keep projects and operations organized and running smoothly. 

What is your position at SIE and what interested you in this work? 
I am an Administrative Assistant at SIE. I have always been good with numbers and organization, and I enjoy work that involves keeping systems and processes on track. This role allows me to use those strengths every day. 

What do you enjoy most about your job and working at SIE? 
What I enjoy most about working at SIE is my teammates. It is rewarding to collaborate with such a supportive group, and I enjoy being part of a team that works well together. 

Client Shoutout 

“All of my interactions with your team have been top notch. From the start, Ruben has been responsive, knowledgeable, and quick to answer questions. Doug has been instrumental in helping us navigate uncommon issues in our older building. Foreman Aaron F. recently led a new project and was outstanding. Virginia from scheduling keeps everything organized and communication on track. 

Every project we have completed with your team has run smoothly. We took a chance on Southwest Industrial Electric after our previous contractor was unavailable, and I could not be happier with the results. We truly appreciate the professionalism and support.” 

– West Coast Laminating (Pablo)