About

Serving the Chicago Metropolitan area and beyond, since 1908

Our commitment to excellence and innovation drives our success.

As one of Illinois’s longest-standing and largest electrical contractors, our rich history has provided us with the groundwork for our growth. With over a century of experience, Kelso-Burnett is a leader in our field with a focus on high quality customer relationships, technological advancement, and dependable deliverables.

We helped Chicago go electric by converting gas street lamps into incandescent bulbs in the 1900s. One hundred years later, we continue to serve the Chicagoland market while expanding our reach nationally. From renewable energy solutions to conveyor integration, Kelso-Burnett is committed to our long-standing values while continuing to nurture our capability for growth. 

People come first at Kelso-Burnett. For our clients, that means lasting relationships built on trust and quality results. For our team, we prioritize safety and offer paths for professional growth. As an employee-owned company, we recognize it is our people who make us successful. 

Kelso-Burnett has Midwest roots with a national reach. See where we work.

1908

James Kelso and Oliver Burnett organize as an Illinois Corporation; Aldis & Co. becomes their first client.

1989

Kelso-Burnett becomes one of the first electrical companies to be owned and operated by an ESOP.

2008

Kelso-Burnett celebrates its
100th anniversary.

2024

Kelso-Burnett establishes a national accounts team as the company continues to expand nationally.