One Standard of Excellence.
Family-owned electrical contractors proudly serving Missouri since 1992.
Built on Family.
Driven by Safety.
First Choice Electric began with a simple belief: every family deserves to feel safe in their home.
Our story starts in 1922, when Howard Kirkpatrick Sr. was born into humble circumstances at a St. Louis orphanage. Growing up during the Great Depression forged a resilience and work ethic that he passed down through generations.
After serving his country in WWII, Howard Sr. instilled in his son Butch the values of service, integrity, and dedication. Butch carried these values into the Navy, where he trained as an aviation electrician—and then into the electrical trade that would become the family legacy.
In 1992, Butch founded Kirk's Electric. In 2010, he restructured it as First Choice Electric with his brother Bennie. Today, his grandsons Zach and Sam continue that legacy, serving families across St. Charles, St. Louis, Lincoln, and Warren counties.
What started as one man's commitment to quality has become a three-generation tradition of excellence.
Our Journey
A Legacy Begins
Howard Kirkpatrick Sr. is born. He would grow up in a St. Louis orphanage until age 11 during the Great Depression, shaping the resilience and work ethic that would define generations to come.
Service to Country
Howard Sr. joins the Seventh Infantry Division, serving on Okinawa from 1943-1945. He received commendation for entertaining troops, demonstrating the family's commitment to lifting up those around them.
The Next Generation
Howard "Butch" Kirkpatrick II is born to Howard Sr. He would follow his father's example of hard work, integrity, and service to others.
Navy Service & Training
Butch is honorably discharged from the United States Navy at Imperial Beach, California, where he served as an aviation electrician on helicopters. This military training in precision electrical work would become the foundation of his career.
Master Electrician
Butch earns his Master Electrician certification while working as a Railroad Signalman, developing the expertise and dedication to quality that would define the family business.
Kirk's Electric Founded
Butch establishes Kirk's Electric, bringing decades of experience and a commitment to quality electrical work to St. Louis area families. The foundation of the family legacy is laid.
A New Generation Begins
Zach Burris begins working summers at Kirk's Electric during high school, learning the trade from his grandfather Butch and absorbing the values of integrity and excellence.
First Choice Electric
Butch and his brother Bennie restructure the business as First Choice Electric LLC, expanding service to St. Charles County with a renewed focus on family values and customer satisfaction.
Sam Joins the Team
Sam Burris joins the family business, beginning his decade-long journey to become a Master Electrician and carrying forward the tradition of excellence started by his grandfather.
Zach Returns Full-Time
Zach Burris commits full-time to First Choice Electric in a leadership capacity, bringing fresh energy and business acumen while honoring the family's legacy of quality work.
Sam Graduates Ranken
Sam Burris graduates from Ranken Technical College, adding formal training to years of hands-on experience learned alongside his grandfather and brother.
Zach Graduates Summa Cum Laude
Zach Burris graduates Summa Cum Laude from Ranken Technical College while leading as CEO, demonstrating the family's commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
In Memoriam
Howard "Butch" Kirkpatrick II (1951-2024) passes away, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, quality, and family values that lives on in every job we complete. His spirit guides our work every day.
Sam Earns Master License
Sam Burris passes the Master Electrician exam, ensuring First Choice Electric continues to deliver the highest standard of work that Butch built the company on.
The Team Grows
Brody Dunsworth joins the First Choice Electric team, continuing the tradition of bringing in dedicated professionals who share our commitment to quality and customer service.
Three Generations Strong
Zach, Sam, and our team carry forward the values of three generations: integrity, excellence, and treating every home like our own. The legacy continues.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide everything we do.
Integrity
Honest communication and transparent pricing. No hidden fees, no surprises.
Advocacy
We stand up for our customers, ensuring you get the best solutions for your needs.
Service
Every home is treated like our own. We take pride in the communities we serve.
Enthusiasm
We love what we do. That passion shows in every project we complete.
Impact
Making a real difference in families' lives through safe, reliable electrical work.
Excellence
Only the highest quality materials and workmanship. We never cut corners.
Our Promise to You
Your Safety & Satisfaction Come First
Proudly Serving Missouri
Four counties, one commitment to excellence.
St. Charles County
17 cities served
First Choice Electric proudly serves St. Charles County with comprehensive residential and commercial electrical services.
View all 17 citiesSt. Louis County
11 cities served
Professional electrical services throughout St. Louis County, from Chesterfield to Kirkwood and everywhere in between.
View all 11 citiesReady to Work Together?
Free, no-obligation estimates for all electrical projects. Know your cost before we begin.