Why AstroWatt Electric’s Culture Drives Long-Term Growth

Tom Jameson, owner of AstroWatt Electric in Apex, North Carolina, believes successful businesses are built around people, not just profit. During a recent interview, Jameson shared how his journey from apprentice electrician to business owner shaped a company culture focused on team development, customer service, and long-term growth at AstroWatt Electric. 

From Apprentice to Business Owner 

Jameson’s path into the electrical trade began after realizing college was not the right fit. A family friend offered him a summer warehouse job at an electrical company in Pennsylvania, and what started as temporary work turned into a career spanning more than two decades. 

“I thought it was just going to be a part-time summer job. And, you know, it just kind of worked my way up,” Jameson said. 

After working in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical roles, he launched his own company in 2018. Originally operating under the name Alternate Current Solutions, the business handled a wide range of electrical projects. As the company evolved, Jameson and his team made a strategic decision to focus exclusively on residential electrical service work and rebranded as AstroWatt Electric in 2023. 

The shift was driven by profitability, scalability, and a desire to better serve homeowners. By narrowing the company’s focus, Jameson said the business was able to create more consistent systems and processes while leaning into its strengths in customer service. 

Building a Culture Around Team Members 

One of the themes Jameson returned to throughout the conversation was culture. He intentionally avoids using the word “employee,” preferring instead to refer to everyone at AstroWatt Electric as team members. 

“We don’t use the word employee here. I hate that word,” he said. 

That philosophy extends beyond language. The Apex, North Carolina company offers health insurance, retirement matching, unlimited paid time off, and access to mental health resources.

Jameson said those investments were never designed as perks to gain leverage over workers, but as part of creating a workplace where people genuinely want to stay. 

“We’ve had one person retire, and two people turned in their notice in that entire time we’ve ever been here,” he said while discussing employee retention. 

Jameson believes business owners should focus on helping their teams succeed both professionally and personally. He frequently encourages team members to use their time off and prioritizes family commitments over work schedules whenever possible. 

Advice for the Next Generation of Tradespeople 

For young people considering a career in the trades, Jameson’s advice is straightforward: show up, ask questions, and be willing to work. 

“I think the biggest thing was just, like, always, always, always ask questions,” he said. 

He also believes the trades offer opportunities that are increasingly difficult to find elsewhere. Rather than focusing on credentials, many skilled trades reward reliability, effort, and continuous learning. Jameson pointed to team members who started with little experience and have grown into leadership roles through dedication and consistent performance. 

Today, AstroWatt Electric continues serving homeowners throughout the Apex, North Carolina area while expanding the systems and culture that Tom Jameson has worked to build since launching the company. As the business grows, Jameson remains focused on the same principle that guided him from the beginning: creating a company where people can learn, succeed, and build meaningful careers in the trades.