• Posted: September 18, 2024
• IBEW Local 134, JM Polcurr Inc., John Marquez, Minority-Owned Business, NECA, qualified electrical contractor

This Hispanic Heritage Month, Powering Chicago proudly shines a light on member contractor JM Polcurr, Inc. JM Polcurr’s President, John Marquez, is a third-generation Mexican-American and a testament to the expertise, innovation, and commitment to quality that define Powering Chicago’s network of electrical contractors.

From Apprentice to Industry Leader

Marquez’s journey in the electrical industry exemplifies the opportunities available through IBEW Local 134’s world-class apprenticeship programs. 

Starting as an apprentice with IBEW Local 134 in 1981, John spent nearly 15 years honing his skills and building a solid foundation of knowledge. This extensive experience prepared him for the bold leap he would take in 1995 when he founded JM Polcurr Inc. As the first in his family to work in the electrical industry, Marquez blazed a trail that would change his life.

“It wasn’t probably the best move when we had my fourth child in 1995. So wow, we took a little bit of a risk starting a business that young and with that many responsibilities… but I was more of a free spirit I guess and it helped me to feel free and do what I wanted to do,” Marquez said.

Despite the challenges of starting a business while raising a young family, Marquez’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for the trades drove him forward. His risk-taking attitude and desire for independence have paid off handsomely over the years. 

Today, JM Polcurr stands as a testament to Marquez’s vision and determination, employing around 40 skilled professionals including office staff and taking on some of Chicago’s most challenging and prestigious electrical projects.

Building Success Through Innovation and Ethics

As a minority-owned business, JM Polcurr secured a minority certification with the City of Chicago, opening doors to public sector work. This certification, combined with the company’s unwavering commitment to quality and safety, has been a large part of its success. 

However, it’s not just this certification that has propelled JM Polcurr to the forefront of the industry. The company’s unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and ethical business practices along with employees that have been with the company for a long period have been the true keys to their enduring success.

“We’ve been able to perform in almost every project we’ve ever taken on. We are committed to performing and completing all of the work given to us,” Marquez said.

JM Polcurr’s portfolio includes impressive projects such as being a part of the O’Hare Airport expansion at Terminal 5. They’ve also completed projects for many public entities such as CPS, Chicago Park District, Public building commission and others, including many Mixed use developments funded in part by public funding. JMP also provides services for private entities and buildings throughout the Cook County area.

Investing in the Future of Electrical Excellence

At the heart of JM Polcurr’s success lies a steadfast commitment to nurturing talent within the organization. Marquez firmly believes that the company’s greatest asset is its people, and this philosophy is reflected in their approach to employee development. By focusing on hiring apprentices and providing them with opportunities to grow and advance within the company, JM Polcurr ensures a continuous pipeline of skilled, loyal professionals who understand and embody the company’s values and work ethic.

 “Most of our employees start as apprentices and then we try to keep them and grow with them,” Marquez said.

This commitment to fostering talent and leadership extends beyond the current generation. Marquez’s vision for the future of JM Polcurr includes his son who recently received his own Supervising Electricians License with the City of Chicago Potentially taking the reins of the company in the coming years. This long-term perspective demonstrates Marquez’s dedication not just to his own success, but to the enduring legacy of the company he built from the ground up.

Powering the Future of Chicago

As one of the pioneering Hispanic-owned electrical contracting companies in Chicago, JM Polcurr Inc. exemplifies the diversity, expertise, and forward-thinking approach that makes Powering Chicago member contractors the best in the business.

Marquez’s parting wisdom for new contractors is simple. 

“Take it slow. Otherwise, you’ll get buried.” 

Powering Chicago is proud to count JM Polcurr Inc. among our elite network of contractors. 

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