Culture
Built on Hard Work. Driven by Relationships. Growing Through Innovation.
The story of Lee Mechanical began in 1976 when Bob Lee Sr. and Natalie Lee started a small plumbing business in the basement of their home. Their goal was simple: provide quality workmanship, honor commitments, and treat customers fairly.
What began as a family plumbing business in the Lees’ basement has grown into a 400-person, full-service MEPF contractor. Explore how five decades of growth took shape across Wisconsin, one relationship and one project at a time.
JUMP TO
1976
Lee Mechanical, originally founded as Lee Plumbing, was established by Bob Lee Sr. and Natalie Lee in the basement of their home. The company focused on plumbing projects often overlooked by larger contractors, building a reputation for reliability, craftsmanship, and customer service.
1977
Ole Jensen and Bob Lee Jr. joined the business, expanding services to include plumbing for new home construction and remodeling projects.
1981
The company began securing larger commercial and municipal work throughout southeastern Wisconsin, including projects associated with improvements at Petrifying Springs Golf Course in Kenosha, demonstrating its growing capabilities and reputation.
1983
Bob Lee Jr. and Mike Lee assumed leadership of the company, with Bob serving as President and Mike as Vice President. During this period, the company secured a significant opportunity with AMC during its merger with Renault, helping establish Lee as a trusted industrial contractor.
1984
Lee Plumbing continued expanding its commercial portfolio, earning contracts for public and municipal projects, including work associated with the Randall Fire Station in Bassett, Wisconsin.
1985
The company's reputation continued to grow throughout southeastern Wisconsin. Lee Plumbing was recognized as a full-service residential, commercial, and industrial contractor known for quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. That same year, Bob Lee's leadership extended beyond the business community when he became General Manager of the Kenosha Twins professional baseball team, further strengthening the company's connection to the community.
1987
Lee Plumbing demonstrated its commitment to community investment by supporting local youth athletics and contributing to efforts to develop the Nash Park baseball complex in Kenosha.
1988
As commercial development accelerated throughout Kenosha County, Lee Plumbing became a trusted partner on numerous commercial construction projects, helping support regional growth and development.
1992
The company continued expanding its commercial presence, participating in major private-sector developments and securing public-sector contracts for for educational facility improvements, including work at Reuther Central High School.
1993
During one of the wettest springs on record in southeastern Wisconsin, Lee Plumbing became a trusted local resource for drainage and sump pump solutions, helping homeowners and businesses protect their properties from flooding.
2001
Lee Mechanical was selected for the Chrysler expansion project, marking a major milestone in the company's involvement in large-scale industrial and manufacturing projects throughout Wisconsin.
2008
Electrical services were added, allowing Lee Mechanical to provide integrated Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) solutions through a single trusted partner.
2010
Mike Lee departed the company, and Frank Ruffolo joined ownership, becoming an instrumental leader in growing and strengthening the company's MEP capabilities.
2018
Strategic discussions began regarding a company rebrand that would better reflect the organization's growth and expanding service offerings.
2019
Lee Mechanical opened its Oak Creek office and completed a rebranding initiative that reflected its evolution from a plumbing contractor into a full-service commercial and industrial systems provider.
2023
The company consolidated operations into its Franklin headquarters, improving efficiency, enhancing customer service, and creating greater collaboration among teams.
2024
In 2024, Lee Mechanical expanded its capabilities through the acquisition of Wisconsin Fire Sprinkler, adding a dedicated Fire Protection Division.
2026
Lee Mechanical celebrated the grand opening of its Caledonia Fabrication & Logistics Facility at 4321 Carol Road. The facility significantly expanded fabrication capabilities, logistics operations, and support for projects throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest.
A legacy built to last. A future built to grow.
Today, Lee Mechanical employs more than 400 professionals and serves commercial, industrial, healthcare, education, municipal, manufacturing, and distribution clients throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest. While the company has grown substantially since its founding, the principles established by Bob and Natalie Lee remain unchanged.
Integrity. Quality. Accountability. Relationships.
These values continue to guide every project, every customer partnership, and every employee who helps carry the Lee Mechanical legacy forward. As the company looks toward the future, it remains committed to investing in its people, embracing innovation, and delivering the exceptional service that has defined Lee Mechanical for nearly five decades.
What’s Happening At Lee
News
Angie Waechter Named The Daily Reporter’s 2026 Mentor of the Year
Lee Mechanical is proud to congratulate Angie Waechter, Construction Manager Fire Protection, on receiving The Daily Reporter’s Mentor of the Year Award as part of its 2026 Women in Construction Awards.
A Milestone Year, Another Milestone Honor: Lee Mechanical Named a Best Place to Work for the Third Consecutive Year
Lee Mechanical has been named a Best Place to Work for the third consecutive year, a recognition that lands during the company's 50th anniversary year.
