JENNIFER WEATHERS
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present the November Small Business of the Month award to Chaffin Electric.
Roger Chaffin’s path to entrepreneurship started with a roadblock that might have stopped others in their tracks. After serving in the military and earning his master electrician certification in Washington, he returned to Kansas in 1998. But he faced a setback: his certification wasn’t recognized here. This meant starting from scratch to qualify for Kansas’ licensing exam. Not one to be discouraged, Roger joined a local company to gain the hours needed and eventually passed the exam, finally opening Chaffin Electric in 2006. His business was inspired by a simple yet powerful mission: to offer quality electrical services at fair prices, so everyone can afford a safe and comfortable home.
From those humble beginnings, Roger has grown Chaffin Electric into a successful enterprise, expanding from a one-man operation to a dedicated team of five. This growth reflects his commitment to service and the loyalty of his customers, many of whom praise his willingness to respond personally, even after hours—a testament to his dedication, especially in Kansas’ extreme weather when power is crucial.
Chaffin Electric offers a full range of services, from new construction and remodeling to specialized lighting, panel upgrades, and even data cabling. But what truly sets them apart is Roger’s personal approach. His responsiveness, especially during emergencies, and commitment to fair pricing ensure that Chaffin Electric is a reliable, accessible option for both residents and businesses in Hutchinson, South Hutchinson, and beyond.
Roger has also adapted to changing customer needs, expanding services to include energy-efficient and smart home solutions. By staying flexible, building strong supplier relationships, and constantly updating skills, Roger has navigated supply chain challenges and rising material costs—valuable lessons in resilience that other small businesses can certainly admire.
Employee retention is also a key part of Chaffin Electric’s success. Roger believes in creating a supportive environment and offering fair wages, flexible schedules, and continual learning opportunities. As Roger puts it, “pay people what they’re worth,” and they’ll stay committed. His team’s dedication is clear in their quality work and the strong customer relationships they help to build.
Chaffin Electric also places a high value on community involvement. Roger supports local organizations like the Boys & Girls Club, veteran organizations, and the Moose Lodge, and he encourages his employees to get involved as well. This community engagement has not only strengthened his business through customer loyalty but has also fostered a deeper connection with the people of Reno County.
Roger measures his success by the satisfaction of his customers and the impact he has on the community, and it’s clear that he is making a positive difference. His advice for future small business owners? “Treat people well, provide quality work, and success will follow naturally.”