Our story at Lee Company is a compelling testament to the resilience, innovation, and hard work that typifies the American Dream. It all started with Leon Lee, a man whose beginnings were as modest as they come, yet his vision was anything but. From a simple garage operation to becoming a national leader in mechanical contracting, our evolution is a narrative of relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to service. We truly built something significant from the ground up.
1944: A Time of Change
Our journey began in a period of change during the spring of 1944. Amidst a significant labor union conflict, Leon Lee and Tom Smith, two of the city’s top commercial refrigeration technicians, saw an opportunity. They decided to venture out on their own, thus laying the foundation for what would become a beacon of success in the industry. Transforming Leon’s garage into an office and workshop, they started Lee and Smith Refrigeration Service Company, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit that would define our ethos.
Growth and Expansion
The post-war era brought significant growth opportunities for the refrigeration industry, notably with the demand for refrigerated milk tanks. We seized this moment, expanding our business and setting the stage for future diversification. This era marked the beginning of a trajectory of growth that would see us expand our offerings to air conditioning, new construction, and beyond, under the leadership of Leon’s sons, Wallace and Ted Lee.
Overcoming Challenges
The late 1970s tested us with financial challenges that threatened our existence. However, our leadership, rooted in resilience and vision, steered us through these turbulent times. This period underscored our dedication to our values, our people, and our mission to serve our customers with integrity and excellence.
Embracing the Future with Innovation
As we moved into the 1980s and beyond, innovation became a key driver of our services, expanding into design/build contracting and incorporating new technologies. This willingness to innovate and adapt has been central to our continued growth and success, marking us as an industry leader dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions and exceptional service.
Today and Beyond
Now, with a vibrant history behind us, we stand as a testament to what dedication, hard work, and a focus on community can achieve. And the best part is, our vision, mission, and values are truer today than ever before.
Vision: To be the professional provider of comprehensive solutions and services for facilities and homes.
Mission: To create a workplace where our employees can thrive. To be committed in finding innovative and original solutions, thoughtfully and reliably, to meet the specific needs of every customer.
Values: To honor God by serving people with respect, integrity, and compassion.
Our story is more than a business success; it’s a reflection of the power of community, innovation, and the enduring spirit of the American entrepreneurial dream. With revenues exceeding the original dream’s expectations, and a dedicated team of 1,600+ employees, we’ve been recognized as a top workplace and an award-winning leader in the field. As we look forward, we do so with an eye on our rich history and a heart full of gratitude for the community, team members, and customers who have been part of this remarkable journey.
