University Electric lights up Cafaro Family Field


NECA-IBEW Electricians member contractors know that by doing a job right the first time, they can create a trusting relationship with their customer.

With a focus on cost-effectiveness, the latest training and safety, contractors like University Electric are able to demonstrate their experience with hopes of working together on future projects.

Eric Jay

Eric Jay, vice president of University Electric, standing at Cafaro Family Field

“Over the past 33 years of University Electric being in business, we have been fortunate to do many projects for Youngstown State- some small and some large- but each one gives us a sense of pride to know we are able to add value to the community,” said Eric W. Jay, vice president of University Electric.

In November 2019, Youngstown State University’s Cafaro Family Field was unveiled to the community, a project that took about six months to complete. The field is used for student recreational activities such as lacrosse, soccer, rugby, ultimate Frisbee and more.

“We were very fortunate to be selected as the electricians for the Cafaro Family Field,” Jay said. “University Electric values the relationship with Youngstown State University, and we’re thrilled to be able to support a project that will be enjoyed by so many members of our community.”

Located less than a mile from University Electric’s office on Belmont Avenue in downtown Youngstown, Cafaro Family Field is positioned adjacent to the Cafaro House residence hall on the north side of YSU’s campus.

The field will help serve the University’s growing student population and allows YSU to offer more intramural sports and club sport competitions. Ursuline High School and Mooney High School also have access to the field for various sports activities through rental agreements.

The field consists of artificial turf, bleachers and a concession area.

Cafaro Family Field

Cafaro Family Field located on Youngstown State University’s campus

As the project manager and estimator for the project, Jay worked with Wisconsin Lighting Lab (WiLL) to create a custom lighting layout to get the maximum amount of light for the field.

Located in Fon du Lac, Wisc., WiLL has more than 45 years of manufacturing experience. Having worked with WiLL in the past, University Electric chose to work with them for the Cafaro Family Field due to their ability to deliver the lighting industry’s best mix of light poles and LED fixture products for high-output applications.

University Electric installed 700w LED Helios light fixtures, which were mounted on aluminum light poles and bullhorn brackets. These premium high-outlet LEDs provide 50-80% energy savings.

There are six aluminum light poles, 50 feet tall, with two fixtures per light pole.

Jay was extremely impressed with the quality of the Helios fixtures and the ease of installation and simple aiming process WiLL provided.

“The installation process for the Helios Olympia light fixtures was very easy working with Wisconsin Lighting Labs. Everything we needed was sent out in a box… everything was point and click, and angles were already figured out, to be honest with you.”

University Electric is a member contractor of NECA-IBEW Electricians, an association of signatory Mahoning Valley electrical contractors and IBEW locals in Youngstown and Warren.