Legendary electrical contractor helped transform Miller Electric from near collapse into a national powerhouse
Jacksonville, FL – Miller Electric Company announced today the passing of H.E. “Buck” Autrey, Chairman Emeritus and transformational leader who served as CEO from 1966 to 2011. He was 93.
“The passing of my grandfather marks the end of an era for Miller Electric and for the electrical contracting industry,” said Henry Brown, CEO of Miller Electric Company. “Buck’s leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence shaped our company and strengthened the broader electrical contracting community. His legacy will continue to guide us for generations.”
Born in Tallahassee in 1932, Mr. Autrey joined Miller Electric as an apprentice in 1950 and rose through the company before becoming president in 1966. At the time, Miller Electric had fewer than 50 employees and significant debt; under his 45 years of leadership, it grew into one of the nation’s premier electrical contractors and a Jacksonville institution.
Industry Leadership
Mr. Autrey’s influence extended beyond Miller Electric through national leadership roles with NECA, including District Vice President and National President from 1979 to 1983. He helped preserve the National Electrical Benefit Fund, co-founded Electri International, received NECA’s Comstock and McGraw awards, and served as Chairman of the Academy of Electrical Contractors. He was also an active civic leader and philanthropist in Jacksonville.
A Legacy of Trust and Stewardship
Throughout his career, Mr. Autrey emphasized integrity, trust, stewardship, and long-term relationships - principles that became central to Miller Electric’s culture.
“Buck showed us that lasting business success is built on relationships, not transactions,” said Brown. “He believed that how we conduct business matters just as much as what we accomplish. That example remains central to who we are, and it is a legacy we are committed to honoring.”
Looking Forward
Miller Electric Company remains committed to advancing Mr. Autrey’s values, including workforce development and apprenticeship. In his honor, the company has established the H.E. “Buck” Autrey Award, presented annually to the top apprentice in its training program.
About Miller Electric Company Founded in 1928, Miller Electric Company is one of the nation’s premier electrical contractors, serving commercial, industrial, and institutional clients across the Greater Southeastern United States. The company remains headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida and is a wholly owned subsidiary of EMCOR Group.
Contact: Kerri Stewart
kstewart@mecojax.com