Employee Spotlight
Jef Marquez, Estimator and Project Manager
Harrington Electric Co.
At Harrington Electric Co., we are proud to have a team member whose dedication and expertise have shaped the electrical and technology industries for over four decades. Jef Marquez, an Estimator and Project Manager, brings more than 42 years of experience to the table—20 years in the field and 22 years in management. His journey through a variety of roles, from field technician to technologies foreman, project manager, and estimator, makes him an invaluable resource for both our team and our clients.
Jef’s work spans an impressive range of sectors, including telecommunications, structured cabling, fiber optics, fire alarm systems, access control, surveillance, and security. His expertise has been sought after by some of the biggest names in the tech and infrastructure sectors, such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Boeing, and the Port of Seattle. Jef’s experience extends far beyond local projects; he has worked both across the United States and internationally, managing high-profile installations for clients like Gold Dust West Casinos, Sheraton Hotels, and military bases.
One of Jef’s standout qualifications is his NICET Level IV certification in Fire Alarm Systems,which he earned in 2017 after a decade of rigorous work and education. This is the highest certification available in the fire alarm field and positions Jef as a specialist who can manage the most complex and specific fire alarm projects—particularly those required by government agencies. With this certification, Jef is authorized to design, stamp, and manage fire alarm system installations 
for projects such as military bases and federal facilities, including past work on the Naval Air Station in Bremerton, WA, and the Naval Base on Whidbey Island.
“Achieving NICET Level IV took 10 years of hard work and dedication. The process involves continuing education and staying updated with evolving codes and technologies,” Jef explains. “I’m proud to be at the forefront of such a critical aspect of building safety, especially as fire alarm technology continues to advance.”
Jef’s expertise is critical as the fire alarm industry continues to evolve. A major trend he’s witnessing is the transition from traditional strobe lights to more affordable and energy-efficient LED strobes. This shift has made fire alarm systems more economical, especially as the cost of materials decreases and manufacturers more readily accept updates to meet the latest codes.
With fire alarm codes changing every three years, keeping systems up to date is essential. Jef plays a key role in helping facility managers and building owners stay compliant with the latest requirements. In recent years, new code sections have emerged to address the growing cannabis industry, and other emerging challenges like the use of lithium-ion batteries in vehicle production and sustainable energy solutions. These advancements directly impact fire alarm systems, with new considerations for suppression and backup power.
Another significant development in the field is the shift towards wireless fire alarm systems. Similar to Wi-Fi technology, these systems use radio frequencies to connect devices without the need for visible conduit infrastructure—something architects increasingly prefer for aesthetic reasons. Jef has worked on projects where retrofitting buildings with wireless systems was essential, providing cost-effective solutions that didn’t compromise on safety.
Jef’s experience with low voltage systems extends beyond fire alarms. He is also well-versed in the growing demand for low voltage controls in lighting systems. With the rise of LED lighting and the push for energy efficiency, lighting retrofits have become a major focus. Jef’s work on lighting control systems, especially in data centers and other critical facilities, demonstrates his ability to help clients reduce power consumption while improving operational efficiency.
“Helping customers navigate these transitions is something I particularly enjoy,” Jef says. “Whether it’s upgrading a fire alarm system or managing a lighting retrofit, it’s about finding solutions that are both cost-effective and forward-thinking.”
Since joining Harrington Electric Co. in January 2025, Jef has been a key player in advancing our fire alarm system capabilities. With his deep experience and unmatched qualifications, he continues to offer valuable guidance to building owners and facility managers looking to modernize their systems.
If you’re considering upgrading or modernizing your fire alarm system, Harrington Electric is ready to help you navigate the complexities of compliance, technology and safety. And Jef Marquez’s wealth of experience and dedication to the latest trends ensures that every project is handled with the highest standards of excellence.
