OCA Wall of Fame: K. Wayne Crawford (1942-2019)

As the founder and CEO of C&M Electric and a past Chair of the Ottawa Construction Association and the Electrical Contractors Association of Ottawa, K. Wayne Crawford was an influential leader in Ottawa’s construction industry.

Wayne and colleague Dave Murray founded C&M Electric in Dave’s home in 1963. The company started small, with an initial focus on home building and renovations. As the business expanded and developed, the men were introduced to industrial and retail projects. With differing opinions on the future of C&M Electric, Wayne and Dave amicably parted ways. Wayne continued building the business alongside his brother Lawrence setting the foundation for C&M Electric’s future.

Under Wayne’s direction, C&M Electric quickly became known as a contractor of choice. Not only was Wayne respected by industry partners, but he was also valued by his employees. Many turned to him for advice and guidance in their careers. Those who profited most from his leadership and wisdom were his children Debbie, Ken, Chris and Trina who would work under their father and later take on ownership.

Wayne’s legacy in the construction sector extended beyond his business. As a board member and Chair of the Electrical Contractors Association of Ottawa, he participated in numerous initiatives and committees that transformed the local and provincial electrical contracting industry.

He also served for two years as the Chair of the Ottawa Construction Association in 1997 and 1998, and led the association through an important change in leadership. His reputation with OCA gained him a seat on the board of directors of the Canadian Construction Association between 2000 and 2003.

In 1999, Wayne was recognized by the Ottawa Business Journal as one of the top 50 most influential people in the construction, property management and design industry.

Away from the business, Wayne always made time to help others. He was a strong supporter of The Ottawa Hospital, Queensway Carleton Hospital, and the Ottawa Mission. As a “Poppy” to 10 grandchildren, he was particularly passionate about the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.

After 60 years in business, Wayne’s legacy lives on under the direction of a second generation of the Crawford family. C&M Electric is still regarded as one of the premiere electrical contracting businesses in Ottawa thanks to the reputation that Wayne instilled.

A true testament to “simply the best” in all walks of life, Wayne will be remembered as hardworking, loyal, dedicated and a true leader.

Read More in the February Edition of the Construction Comment here