Electric service company shines in North Aurora

Despite the battered economy, Joe Albert's electrical service company is looking bright.

Hi-Lite Electric recently expanded from Albert's Sugar Grove home to a warehouse and office in North Aurora.

"I now have a storefront with my name on it. That's big for a small business," Albert said. The 27-year-old ambitious electrician has also hired a couple more contractors.

Catering to existing homeowners and their repair needs is the focus of business and the reason Albert believes he has been able to thrive. Starting the business in 2006, he didn't do much with new construction, a wise move as he looks at the current housing market.

"We do service work, your average little fixes," said Albert, who has built up a large referral base and many repeat customers. He often installs ceiling fans in older homes that don't have a ceiling fixture. He also installs recessed lighting and replaces fixtures. He noted that he does all the work without tearing up ceilings or damaging drywall.

"We know how to do things that others can't," he said. Room additions and basements are other tasks his business tackles.

Albert is proud that he is able to do any job.

"You won't ever hear me say, 'no I can't do that,'" Albert said.

Albert's interest in this industry started while he was at St. Charles East High School. At the age of 16 he took a residential wiring class at the trade school through the Fox Valley Career Center. He then took a job with a local electrician and has been in the industry ever since.

Albert lives in Sugar Grove with his wife, Jennifer, who works as assistant director of alumni relations at Northern Illinois University. They have a seven month old daughter, Aspen Noelle.

The business owner strongly believes that customer satisfaction is key in the growth of his company. He stresses it's essential to answer potential client's calls and return calls promptly.

For more information, call (630) 897-4300.

Time for breakfast: A new breakfast place is now open in Des Plaines.

Katie's Kitchen opened at 623 N. Wolf Road in Des Plaines.

The eatery is open from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily. The menu includes The Farmer Scramblers, consisting of eggs, potatoes, green peppers, onions, bacon bits and smothered in cheddar cheese. It sells for $6.95.

Katie Kautz and her father, Michael Kautz, own and operate the business. For more call, (847) 803-3544.

• Kim Mikus covers retail and small business. She welcomes comments at (847) 427-4567.