Company History
Greeley McKinley Lee Sr. founded Lee`s Electric Co. (now Lee Electric Inc.) in 1951. Mr. Greeley was a former logger for the W.T. Smith Lumber Company of Chapman, Alabama, and a World War II veteran. His ability to learn and understand new technology (specifically anti-aircraft gun assembly and service) on the fly saw him rise quickly through the ranks of the military and be promoted to Sergeant despite not having a college degree like most other officers. This ability to understand previously unheard of technology was crucial to Mr. Greeleys success. Whether it was working on electronic controls in saw mills, residential electrical service, or installing new and innovative General Electric Air conditioners, Mr. Greeleys business quickly grew. His understanding of the newly invented heat pump is what can be pointed to as the catalyst for Lee Electrics expansion and success over the last 70 plus years. Mr. Greeley`s work ethic and prowess with at troubleshooting and installing heat pumps lead him to be dubbed “The Heat Pump Man”, by the Alabama Power Company in the late 1950s and early 60s. The Lee Electric story doesn't stop there!
Three Generations Strong
Greeley McKinley Lee Jr. (Mack) spent most of his childhood by his father’s side in saw mills and homes all over Butler County. This sparked a deep interest in “the way things work” at an early age. This inspired him to pursue an Electrical Engineering degree at Auburn University. He graduated from Auburn University with a Master’s in Electrical Engineering. Mack returned to help run Lee Electric in 1985, and was transitioned to his current role as President in 1994. In conjunction with being the current President of Lee Electric Inc., Mack manages his own Engineering Firm (L.W. Engineering). Macks in depth knowledge in the electrical engineering field gives Lee Electric`s customers a level of expertise above and beyond the industry standard.
Greeley McKinley Lee III, (McKinley) shared a similar story to his father as he journeyed back home to their family’s business. “After three generations of involvement in the field it just seems to get in your blood”, said McKinley. McKinley graduated from Fort Dale Academy in 2014. He attended Auburn University Montgomery, where he graduated Suma Cum Laude in just three years with a degree in economics. After serving as a Economic Development Specialist for the state, he heard home calling just like his dad. McKinley has been back in the family business since the early Spring of 2019. McKinley is a graduate of the Alabama Power Company’s Heat Pump Training Center`s state approved curriculum, and received “Best In Class” recognition for his work in the program. McKinley currently serves as a full time service specialist and was named Vice-President in winter 2022.