Patrick Kennelly, also known as Pat Kennelly, is the Principal and Owner of Anthony G. Ferry Inc. He has worked in the electrical trade for more than 30 years. Patrick Kennelly earned his Master Electrician license in 2001 and took ownership of the company in 2007. Since then, he has led projects across New York City, serving residential, commercial, and construction clients. Pat Kennelly also served as a Trustee at St. Ignatius School in the Bronx. His work reflects strong leadership, clear standards, and hands-on experience in the field.
Today, we have Patrick Kennelly with us to talk about leadership in the electrical industry, his journey, and what it takes to run a trusted electrical company in New York City.
Interviewer: Pat, can you tell us how your journey started in the electrical industry?
Patrick Kennelly: I started working in the trade early in my career. I learned by doing the work on job sites. I spent years understanding wiring, systems, and safety rules. I worked with skilled electricians who showed me the right way to do things. Over time, I took on more responsibility. I earned my Master Electrician license in 2001, which gave me the chance to lead projects. In 2007, I took over Anthony G. Ferry Inc. That step pushed me into a leadership role.
Interviewer: What does leadership mean to you in this field?
Patrick Kennelly: Leadership means showing up every day and setting the standard for your team. You cannot just give instructions. You need to guide people, check the work, and step in when needed. I stay involved in projects so my team knows I care about the outcome. If you want people to follow you, you need to earn their respect through your actions.
Interviewer: How do you maintain high standards on every project?
Patrick Kennelly: I focus on clear expectations. Before any project starts, I explain what needs to be done and how we will do it. I make sure every worker understands safety rules and code requirements. I also review the work at each stage. For example, on a recent commercial project, we had to upgrade an entire electrical panel system. I checked each step to make sure everything met code. That approach helps avoid mistakes and delays.
Interviewer: Safety is a big part of electrical work. How do you handle it?
Patrick Kennelly: Safety comes first on every job. I remind my team that no deadline is more important than safety. We follow New York City codes closely. I also make sure we use the right tools and protective gear. If I see something unsafe, I stop the work and fix it right away. This habit protects both the workers and the clients.
Interviewer: What challenges do you face while managing projects in New York City?
Patrick Kennelly: New York City projects can be complex. You deal with old buildings, tight spaces, and strict regulations. You also need to coordinate with other trades like plumbing and construction teams. One challenge is working in older buildings where wiring may not meet current standards. In those cases, you need to plan carefully and upgrade systems without causing major disruptions. Experience helps you handle these situations.
Interviewer: How do you manage both residential and commercial projects?
Patrick Kennelly: Each type of project needs a different approach. Residential work often involves direct communication with homeowners. You need to explain things in simple terms so they understand what you are doing. Commercial projects are larger and involve more planning. You work with contractors, engineers, and project managers. I adjust my approach based on the job, but I keep the same focus on quality and safety.
Interviewer: What role does communication play in your leadership style?
Patrick Kennelly: Communication is key. If your team does not understand the plan, mistakes will happen. I keep instructions simple and direct. I also listen to my team. Sometimes they notice issues before I do. Good communication also builds trust with clients. When you explain the work clearly, clients feel more confident in your service.
Interviewer: Can you share an example where your leadership made a difference?
Patrick Kennelly: On one project, we were working on a large building upgrade. The timeline was tight, and there were delays from other teams. Instead of rushing the work, I adjusted the schedule and reassigned tasks. I also stayed on-site to guide the team. We completed the project on time without cutting corners. That result came from staying focused and leading by example.
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Interviewer: How do you train and guide your team?
Patrick Kennelly: I train my team by working alongside them. I show them how to do the job the right way. I also explain why certain steps matter. For example, when installing wiring, I make sure they understand how proper connections prevent future issues. I encourage them to ask questions and learn from each project. This helps them grow and improve their skills.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to someone starting in this industry?
Patrick Kennelly: Start with the basics and learn them well. Do not rush the process. Pay attention to safety and follow the rules. Work with experienced electricians and learn from them. Show up on time and take your work seriously. Over time, you will build the skills needed to take on bigger roles.
Interviewer: How do you see the future of the electrical industry?
Patrick Kennelly: The industry will keep changing as new technologies come in. You will see more demand for upgraded systems and better power solutions. Electricians need to stay updated and keep learning. If you focus on strong work standards and stay open to change, you will do well in this field.
Interviewer: What keeps you motivated after so many years in the industry?
Patrick Kennelly: I take pride in the work I do. Every project is a chance to deliver something solid and safe. I also enjoy leading my team and seeing them improve. When a project is done right and the client is satisfied, that keeps me going.
Interviewer: What makes Anthony G. Ferry Inc stand out?
Patrick Kennelly: We focus on doing the job right the first time. We do not cut corners. We follow code, maintain safety, and stay honest with our clients. That approach has helped us build long-term relationships. Clients come back to us because they trust our work.
Interviewer: Final thoughts on leadership?
Patrick Kennelly: Leadership is about responsibility. You need to guide your team, stand by your work, and make the right decisions. If you stay consistent and focus on quality, people will trust you. That trust is what builds a strong business.
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