David W. Gumpher founded Gumpher Electrical Contracting in 1979.  Working out of a small storage building and the back of a pinto hatchback, David performed small jobs like changing a light switch, adding an electrical outlet, and performing an occasional service upgrade.

In 1980, David took a job with Pennsylvania Power & Light (PP&L) where he worked in a power plant for three years before advancing to a groundman position, and later, a lineman trainee.  During this time, David continued operating his one man electrical business.

In order to fulfill his dream of owning a small business to support his family, David quit his job with PP&L in 1988 and started operating his business full time.  By 1989, David purchased a well- established appliance sales and electrical contracting company named C.L. Groff.  All employees were retained and Gumpher Electric was merged under the C.L. Groff Sons corporation.  Purchasing this established company led to many new opportunities, such as increased manpower and a building to stock material.  Trucks and vans were also purchased, allowing employees to perform various projects at one time.

By 1989, C.L. Groff Sons/Gumpher electrical contracting was a sub contractor for PP&L, performing underground distribution work.  The largest project completed three months ahead of schedule for PP&L was a total replacement of all the old street light wiring in Hershey, Pennsylvania.  This venture required a work force of nearly thirty employees.  A few additional projects were completed for PP&L before the union required PP&L to use union contractors.

By 1999, suppliers such as Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Sam’s Club changed the appliance market.  At this time, David elected to close the appliance sales and service section of C.L. Groff Sons, Inc. and concentrate strictly on electrical contracting.  The work force was reduced to a total of five employees (including an office manager).  Electrical contracting became the main source of income for the company and by investing in up to date tools and equipment, David realized the work force could be kept to a minimum and projects could be completed in a more efficient manner.

Today, Gumpher Electric performs work ranging from re-lamping light fixtures to the design build of a 250 foot by 100 foot hangar building for the U.S. Army.  The company offers a wide variety of services that include: adding an outlet and cat5E ports, networking computer systems, bucket truck service, excavation and earth boring, SImplex fire alarm installation, and underground pipe and wire locating.

With the recent changes in the economy and soaring utility costs, Gumpher Electric has become open to new energy efficient lighting, standby generators, and power correction devices.  Electrical contracting, like many industries, has become a very hi-tech market.

As when the business was started in 1979 Gumpher Electric strives to provide a professional quality service at a competitive price.