Member Spotlight

Karen Maine--Karen's Electric, Richmond, MN

by Clara DeRosier
Executive Manager


Get to know the President of MEA!

Karen’s position on the Executive Board of MEA began in 2015 as she served as Secretary, then Treasurer and Vice-President. She took over as President in the Spring of 2018. Karen started her own electrical contracting business back in 1988, (now celebrating 30 years in business).  Recently, after our MEA Summer Board Meeting, we had the opportunity to ask Karen a few questions about her women-owned business.     

What made you want to start your business?

“Well, I thought I could set my own hours and have control of the type of work I personally wanted to do. As a single mother at that time it was important for me to have freedom from a typical 8-to-5 job. Working at my own business was a way for me to be involved in my kid’s busy schedule. Every parent knows what it's like to juggle home and work. Not easy!”
What is it like being a female business owner in a predominately male industry?

“It has been challenging to say the least. It’s been quite an education along the way. As a woman you really have to prove to customers that you know your stuff. My key business skills came across however, and in the end, I’m successful at competing for the work. Overall it has been a fun ride.”

How have you overcome business obstacles that you have encountered along the way?

“When I first started my business, a group of other women who owned construction businesses formed an association called “Empowering Women,” which is now called “Association of Women Contractors”. We met through MNDOT classes. It was important to me to be surrounded and supported by other women business owners that were going through some of the same obstacles I was experiencing. It was also at that time that I joined MEA. MEA has helped me tremendously through the years with the electrical training side of my business. If it weren’t for MEA I would not have been able to compete as I have. I’m proud to say I have been a member of MEA for 30 years. Thank you MEA!”

What is the number one tip you would give to those thinking of starting a small business?

“Never give up; surround yourself with others that can support you. Expect to give a lot of commitment in both time and money. Hire employees to do the work you can’t do or don’t like doing (accounting and payroll), so you can spend your time on growing your business.”

What has been your greatest business success?

“Being in business for 30 years! How awesome is that? But also, I remember back when the kids were young how good it felt to have the freedom to participate in their activities. I have a plaque that hangs in my office which says: There is only one success, to be able to spend your life in your own way."

Is there anything you would like to share that other business owners would benefit from?

“Be persistent… don’t give up when times are rough. Push through—good times are ahead!”