Gov. Rick Scott visits Ocoee's Bright Future Electric

OCOEE — One West Orange County business was the perfect place for Gov. Rick Scott to champion the state's economic successes.

Scott held a press conference June 11 at Ocoee-based Bright Future Electric to congratulate it on the success the business has enjoyed since it opened in 2006. Bright Future President Allen McCain received a medal from the governor in recognition for his company's growth.  

"It's always great to come to a company and brag about what they've accomplished," Scott said of Bright Future. "Since 2011, they've added 160 new jobs. They have over 300 jobs in Florida and over jobs overall. What is exciting today is, on top of the 300 jobs in Florida (and) the 160 jobs in the last three years, they're adding another 30 jobs right here."

The conference included remarks from several Bright Future officials, including McCain, Orlando Vice President Skip Brown and Commercial Manager Noble Thomas. Orange County District 2 Commissioner Bryan Nelson and West Orange Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Stina D'Uva also spoke.

"We are grateful for his efforts to improve the Florida economy and create more jobs," Thomas said of Scott. "Our company has grown stronger because of it."

McCain shared some of the company's history.

"The foundation for Bright Future's Central Florida Division began in the garage of Danniel Petro in 1977 (under a different name)," he said. "Dan had a vision to treat both customers and employees with respect and integrity. Thirty-eight years later, these principles remain the same and are the basis for our Bright Future mission statement and foundation."

McCain and Petro partnered in 2006 to open Bright Future Electric. The company had one branch in Greater Orlando to service Central Florida and one in Birmingham to service North Central Alabama. In fewer than 18 months, the company opened two additional branches. Its newest branch is located in Sarasota.

"Thanks to your efforts, Gov. Scott, and your administration's pro-business agenda, we were able to attract new people and offer them opportunities, such as the Academy for Construction Technologies, which provides summer internships for high-school students," McCain said. "We also offer complete scholarships to the four-year Florida electrical apprenticeship training program, in conjunction with on-the-job training. Our greatest desire is to provide young men and women the opportunity to reach their full potential and live the American dream."

Scott said the story of Bright Future Electric is made possible by its owners and employees and is an example of the success that can come through hard work and dedication.

"Five years ago, I ran for governor on a jobs platform," Scott said. "This state had lost 832,000 jobs in four years, and we've now added 865,000 jobs in a little over four years. In the Orlando area, you've added 47,00 jobs in 12 months, and your unemployment rate is down to 4.9%, so this area has done really well. ... This state is absolutely headed in the right direction."