Archive for December, 2025

A Milestone Year of Awards and Recognition

Monday, December 29th, 2025

As 2025 comes to a close, we’re proud to reflect on a milestone year at Egan Company—our 80th year in business. This year has been defined by growth, innovation, and the hard work of our teams, earning recognition across industries for excellence, safety, and leadership. Each award and honor we received is a testament to the dedication and collaboration that defines Egan’s culture and commitment to our customers, partners, and people.

A sincere thank you to everyone who made this milestone year a success!

Minnesota’s Largest Private Companies
Moving up to #62 in the Minneapolis-St. Paul Business Journal’s list of Minnesota’s Largest Private Companies highlights steady growth, long-standing success, and a continued commitment to serving customers and communities across the region. This recognition reflects strong leadership, operational excellence, and the contributions of teams across every part of the business. View the full list of Minnesota’s top privately held companies. 

ENR Top 600 Specialty Contractors
Engineering-News Record (ENR) ranked Egan #133 in their annual Top 600 Specialty Contractors list for 2025, highlighting our continued excellence and growth across the nation. See ENR’s complete Top 600 Specialty Contractors rankings. 

Finance & Commerce Reader Rankings
For the ninth consecutive year, recognition in the Finance & Commerce Reader Rankings demonstrates the trust clients place in our expertise and service. Ranking #2 in the Best Electrical Contractor category also highlights a focus on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. 

Read more about the 2025 reader-selected winners across Minnesota. 

Top Solar Companies – Solar Power World
Recognition on Solar Power World’s Top Solar Companies list for 2025 highlights our commitment to sustainable energy and innovation in solar project delivery. From design to installation, our teams provide high-quality, efficient, and forward-thinking solar solutions. 

Check out the 2025 list of leading solar contractors.

Governor’s Workplace Safety Awards – Silver Award
Safety remains a top priority across all teams at Egan. In 2025, our efforts were recognized with a Silver Award from the Minnesota Safety Council’s Governor’s Workplace Safety Awards. Learn more about Minnesota’s Governor’s Workplace Safety Awards. 

US Glass Magazine – Top 50 Contract Glaziers
Ranked #46 on US Glass Magazine’s Top 50 Contract Glaziers list, this recognition highlights expertise and leadership in the commercial glass industry. It reflects a commitment to quality craftsmanship, innovative solutions, and efficient project delivery across a wide range of commercial and institutional projects. 

Explore the 2025 rankings of top glazing firms nationwide. 

Best Internal Training Program – Glass Magazine
Receiving the Best Internal Training Program award from Glass Magazine reflects dedication to continuous learning and professional development. The program ensures teams have the knowledge and tools to deliver high-quality results safely and efficiently. Check out the September 2025 Glass Magazine Issue to learn more about the award. 

Certified Integrators of the Year – Sielox
Sielox LLC recognized Egan Company as a Silver Certified Integrator of the Year in its 2024 annual award program, highlighting our expertise and commitment to delivering exceptional access control and layered security solutions.  

See Sielox’s complete list of 2024 Certified Integrators of the Year and learn more about the program.

ABB’s National Integrator of the Year & West Sales Leader of the Year
Egan was recognized with an ABB award for its commitment to innovation, quality, and industry leadership. This recognition highlights Egan’s ability to deliver reliable, high-performing solutions while maintaining a strong focus on safety and collaboration. Learn more about this recognition

CHASE Safety Award – AGC of Minnesota
Egan’s comprehensive safety program earned recognition through the CHASE Safety Award, hosted by the Associated General Contractors of Minnesota. This honor reinforces our ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe work environment, promoting best practices, and protecting our team members across all projects.  Read about the CHASE Safety Award recognizing excellence in contractor safety. 

Culture of Care Award – AGC of Minnesota
Egan was honored with the Culture of Care Award, recognizing our ongoing dedication to fostering a safe, supportive, and engaged work environment. Learn more about the Culture of Care Award honoring workplace well-being and engagement. 

Closing out our 80th year, 2025 has been a milestone year filled with growth, recognition, and excellence. Each award reflects the hard work, collaboration, and care our teams bring to every project, every day. We look forward to building on this success in 2026 and beyond!

80 Reasons to Celebrate Egan’s People and Purpose

Friday, December 26th, 2025

80 Reasons to Celebrate Egan’s People, Partners, and Purpose
In celebration of Egan Company’s 80th anniversary, “80 Reasons Why” brought together the voices of those who experience Egan every day. Spanning projects, roles, and relationships, these 80 perspectives captured what it’s like to be part of Egan—and what it’s like to partner with Egan. Together, they tell one story of shared values, trusted collaboration, and a purpose that has endured for eight decades.

Throughout the year, recurring themes emerged that defined the Egan experience. The importance of teamwork, opportunity, and a family-first mindset was echoed again and again. From project kickoff to closeout, the reasons shared revealed a company where people move forward together, grounded in respect, safety, collaboration, and pride in the work.

A Culture Built on People and Partnerships
One message rose above all others: it’s the people. Many summed it up simply as “hands down—the people,” pointing to a culture described as supportive, welcoming, and collaborative. Others highlighted “the atmosphere” and “everyone willing to help each other out,” reinforcing how relationships sit at the center of everything Egan does.

That people-first mindset also extends to growth and opportunity. The ability to learn, advance, and take on new challenges was a consistent theme. “The variety of work” stood out as a common thread, showing that growth comes from tackling diverse projects and stepping into new responsibilities, regardless of the challenges that could unfold. 

A Shared Commitment to Safety and Support
Safety is a core value at Egan, for employees and customers alike. Many shared how Egan “puts people first,” creating environments where everyone feels protected, supported, and prepared each day. Safety is woven into planning, communication, and execution, reinforcing that it’s not just a requirement, but a shared responsibility.

Confidence in the process was a recurring theme, driven by clear expectations, strong coordination, and accountability on the jobsite. The presence of engaged field leadership and a responsive Safety team reinforces that trust, ensuring support is always close at hand. As one perspective shared, “you never feel like you’re on your own”, a sentiment that reflects the consistency, care, and reliability experienced throughout the lifecycle of the work.

Pride in the Work and the Results
Pride in the work itself was a common thread throughout the shared reasons, both in how projects are delivered and in the results left behind. From craftsmanship to execution, customers and employees alike shared how meaningful it is to “point out projects to friends and family” and know the work was done right. That confidence has been a reinforcing factor in  receiving consistent feedback around quality, reliability, and expertise. 

There was also strong appreciation for the way Egan teams show up as true partners throughout the project lifecycle. The ability to communicate clearly, anticipate challenges, and follow through was frequently noted, with reflections on projects being “well coordinated,” “thoughtfully planned,” and “done the right way from start to finish.” The end result isn’t just a completed facility, but confidence in the process and trust in the outcome.

A Sense of Belonging and Trust
Whether it showed up through shared moments, open communication, or flexibility in how teams and partners work together, many described an environment at Egan where people feel valued and connected. Reflections on “easy communication,” and “people who genuinely care” pointed to a culture built on approachability and trust.

Together, these reasons highlighted an organization where support extends beyond the work itself, professionally and personally, and where confidence is built through consistency, transparency, and long-standing relationships with great partners.

Looking Ahead—Together
As Egan closes out its 80th year in business, “80 Reasons Why” reflects what has carried the company through decades of growth and change. Every testimonial—from employees and customers alike, reinforce Egan’s commitment to teamwork, safety, quality, and shared success. After 80 years, one thing remains clear: Egan’s strength lies in its team and in the relationships that move everyone forward.

Promises Kept Best of the Best Awards 2025

Thursday, December 18th, 2025

Promises Kept Best of the Best Awards 2025
At Egan Company, “Promises Kept” is more than a phrase; it is a standard that employees uphold every day. Delivering on commitments is central to how the company serves its customers, and each year, Egan receives firsthand accounts of how its employees make a difference.

The annual “Best of Promises Kept” awards recognize individuals and teams who exemplify the company’s values and consistently go above and beyond for customers. This year, James Ford, Egan Company President & CEO, along with senior leaders, presented the awards to the recipients.

INDIVIDUAL AWARD
“I want to offer kudos to the Egan team for completing the installation of the emergency generator at our facility. Steve Ohmann was a pleasure to have on-site – he completed work with minimal disruption, stayed organized, clearly communicated with us, and was even willing to give us a hand with a couple other small tasks onsite. Steve’s willingness to lend a hand really went a long way. I will certainly be reaching out to Egan in the future as projects come up.”

— Vice President of Manufacturing, Medical Device Organization

TEAM AWARD
“I can’t say enough good things about Jonas, Mitch, Anna, and Bob! After moving into the Heights, I ran into multiple building issues, including HVAC, elevator, and fire panel problems. While working alongside other trades, it was Egan who spotted a major pneumatic pressure issue, helping us fix it quickly. Even though these issues weren’t on their to-do list, they stepped up without hesitation. Every time I work with Egan, they’re prompt, proactive, and go above and beyond for our building and district.”

              — Head Engineer, Local Community School

The dedication, teamwork, and customer-first mindset demonstrated by the award recipients were recognized as exemplary. Their commitment ensures that every project is more than just completed—it is a promise kept. Have a Promises Kept story of your own? Share your experience here! 

Building Smarter, Faster, and Safer with Electrical Prefabrication

Friday, December 12th, 2025

Powering Precision: Inside Egan’s Electrical Prefabrication Process
When it comes to electrical systems, precision and timing are everything. At Egan Company, our Electrical Prefabrication team takes both to the next level, combining innovation, collaboration, and control to deliver smarter, faster, and safer solutions to every project.

We sat down with Eric Lauwagie, Electrical Solutions & Prefabrication Manager, and Greg Hansen, Electrical Prefabrication Supervisor, to discuss what sets Egan’s electrical prefabrication operations apart and how this approach continues to drive value across industries.

Building in a Controlled Environment
Prefabrication brings electrical work off the jobsite and into a controlled, weather-independent facility. “Working in a controlled environment eliminates weather delays, access limitations, and a lot of the variables you deal with on a jobsite,” said Hansen. “It creates predictability and lets us maintain a steady workflow year-round.”

Hansen added that Egan’s prefabrication environment is designed for consistency: “we have optimal  lighting, climate control, and organized work areas, which all improve safety, quality, and efficiency. Materials and tools are readily available, so union electricians can focus on precise, repetitive builds without interruptions.” The result? A seamless flow of assemblies that are ready to install the moment they reach the field.

Maximizing Speed, Efficiency, and Cost Savings
Prefabrication doesn’t just mean earlier starts, it means faster finishes and reduced overall project costs. “We can build assemblies for the next phase of the project while the field team installs what was built the week before,” Lauwagie explained. “That parallel workflow is huge for staying on schedule.” By moving much of the labor from the field to a streamlined environment, Egan reduces overall project hours, waste, and rework. Hansen noted, “Assemblies are built in parallel with other site work, compressing the schedule. Customers benefit from fewer disruptions, optimized  manpower, and greater project predictability.”

Prefabrication Capabilities That Power Every Project
Egan’s Electrical Prefabrication Shop supports a wide range of assemblies and systems that are designed to simplify installation, improve quality, and enhance safety in the field. From temporary power and underground duct banks to lighting, room kitting, and complex distribution systems, each assembly is custom-built to the project’s needs.

Common builds include components like cable tray, conduit racks, rebar cages, switch and receptacle assemblies, transformer whips, fixture whips, and prewired light poles, just to name a few. “Prefabrication is a driving force that influences project planning, design coordination, and field execution,” Hansen explained. “For every phase–from underground work to final trim, our goal is always the same—deliver assemblies that arrive fully prepped, consistent, and ready to install.”

Collaboration That Keeps Projects Moving
Success in prefabrication starts with communication. “We work hand-in-hand with field leaders, superintendents, and project managers throughout the project,” Lauwagie said. “Regular meetings, shared visibility, and approval checkpoints make sure everyone’s aligned from start to finish.” This collaborative process ensures that assemblies are built to exact specifications and delivered when—and how—the field needs them.

Bringing Value Across Industries
From new construction and manufacturing facilities to mission-critical environments like data centers or healthcare, Egan’s electrical prefabrication approach delivers consistency where it matters most. “Highly complex projects with multiple trades or tight timelines benefit the most,” said Lauwagie. “When space is limited or conditions are harsh, prefabrication allows us to build safely and efficiently offsite.” And because Egan’s teams handle electrical, mechanical, and technology systems under one roof, customers gain the advantage of true multi-trade coordination. “Our VDC teams work side by side across trades to eliminate clashes and streamline planning,” said Hansen. “It’s all about delivering integrated, installation-ready solutions.”

Building Smarter, Together
For Egan, electrical prefabrication isn’t just about saving time—it’s about raising the standard of what’s possible in the field. With every project, the team continues to refine processes, improve quality, and deliver value-driven results to customers across every industry. “Prefabrication is about thinking ahead,” Lauwagie said. “It’s planning, coordination, and execution—done right the first time.”

Refrigeration Controls FAQs

Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025

The controls systems that operate in industrial manufacturing facilities, cold storage units, and ice arenas often go unnoticed, carefully maintaining the critical temperatures required by the product inside. Knowing your refrigeration controls equipment and software inside and out is key to effectively managing it and maximizing its capabilities. Plant managers, equipment operators, and trusted system integrators all play a critical role in keeping the equipment in the best condition. Find answers to commonly asked questions regarding industrial refrigeration control systems.

Who can service my controls equipment?

Depending on the type of equipment you have installed in your facility, only certain local contractors and system integrators are qualified to work on your systems. Proprietary controls restrict service contractors to the original installer of the equipment. No other contractors are allowed to work on proprietary equipment. Non-proprietary systems, however, can be serviced by any trusted, local controls contractor and system integrator

Can one control system manage all my industrial equipment?

Depending on the size of your facility, yes, one controls system can integrate with your entire setup. Egan Company’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls can manage a variety of equipment in industrial manufacturing facilities, food and beverage processing plants, and even ice arenas. Every industrial facility comes with its own unique equipment and controls needs, and Egan’s trusted system integration team works closely with plant managers to understand the goals of the facility and how a custom refrigeration controls system can improve the operations in the building. 

What features are available with Egan Company’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls?

Refrigeration controls are critical for small- and large-scale plants that require precise temperature management. Egan’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls deliver a user-friendly option to operate, control, and access temperatures within industrial manufacturing facilities. Features include: 

  • Alarm monitoring
  • Remote access and troubleshooting
  • Scalability for growing operations
  • Non-proprietary systems utilizing Rockwell Automation
  • Custom hardware and software engineering

How do custom refrigeration controls improve the food and beverage manufacturing process?

By maintaining control of critical temperatures throughout the food and beverage manufacturing process, operators can ensure a higher level of quality, food safety, and consistency in their product. Custom refrigeration controls meet the needs of each individual plant, integrating equipment, processes, and temperature requirements for your processes. Monitoring the temperature range in the facility can help maintain compliance with the standards regulated by the FDA, while also reducing spoilage and costly emergencies. 

Can Refrigeration-IQ controls help ice arena management? 

Yes! Egan’s refrigeration controls experts have partnered with multiple municipal ice arenas to provide solutions for facility management. Both indoor and outdoor arenas require user-friendly controls to keep ice smooth and ensure easy management for operators. Egan has installed a number of different systems for ice rinks, based on the needs of each one. From new motor controls and glycol cooling systems to smart pulsing compressors, each ice arena may benefit from different equipment and approaches. 

What temperatures do cold storage facilities need to stay within? 

Temperature requirements will vary depending on the individual facility and the product within. The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) designates freezer storage as climate controlled facilities that maintain temperatures between -4°F and 14°F, while cold storage temperatures should stay between 14°F and 46°F.

What temperature should perishable products be stored at?

Specific products, such as pharmaceuticals, meat, dairy, or produce, each require its own storage temperature ranges. In compliance with FDA standards, keeping meats, dairy, and produce between 36°F to 39°F can help ensure safety and quality during storage and shipping of products. Keeping up to date with the latest guidelines and individual product specifications can help protect your cold storage facility and inventory. 

What happens if the temperature in my facility goes out of its set range? 

If the temperatures in your manufacturing plant, cold storage facility, or ice arena begin to increase or otherwise go out of the set range, it is critical to begin troubleshooting immediately. In many cases, the issue may be a faulty temperature sensor, a compressor not cycling properly, or a door left open, which can often be resolved by replacing the sensor, checking control parameters, or verifying door seals and alarms.

Egan Company’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls automatically alert your team when temperatures exceed limits, helping you quickly identify and correct issues before they impact product quality, safety, or system efficiency.

Calling the company that installed the system, or another local electrical contractor and system integrator, can help solve the issue and get everything back on track quickly. Because maintaining key temperatures is so critical for industrial manufacturing and cold storage facilities, having a plan in place in case of emergencies is important. Integrating alarm monitoring, remote troubleshooting, and maintaining key contacts with local contractors are all steps you can take to keep track of the temperatures in your facility and get ahead of potential problems. 

Is ammonia refrigeration the best option for my facility?

While ammonia cooling systems are common for maintaining refrigeration temperatures in industrial settings, they are not the only option, and in some cases are not the best option for processing plants and storage facilities. 

The benefits of ammonia systems include effective heat transfer, energy efficiency, and low environmental impact, making it an ideal solution for many large-scale manufacturers and industrial plants. Alternative options include glycol cooling, carbon dioxide systems, and synthetic refrigeration systems. Each industrial refrigeration system has its own benefits, including energy efficiency, safety, and low-temperature capability. Egan Company’s Refrigeration-IQ™ team can be a partner for your facility to determine what is best for your needs and to create a custom solution to achieve your temperature and processing goals. 

Refrigeration Controls Made Simple

Having the right controls system integrated into your equipment and processes can change the way your facility, cold storage unit, or ice arena is run. Custom refrigeration controls integrate seamlessly within small- and large-scale facilities, improving efficiency and operations throughout. Egan Company is a trusted contractor and system integrator, partnering with industrial and manufacturing leaders to find custom solutions for critical refrigeration controls. Our Refrigeration-IQ™ controls make managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting easy and user-friendly. Schedule a demo and learn more about how an upgraded controls system can benefit your plant.