T.E.M. Group, Inc. was founded in 1999 as T.E.M. Electric by Tom Masterson with a clear focus on craftsmanship, integrity, and long-term relationships. What began as a small operation built at the kitchen table quickly grew into a company trusted to deliver complex electrical work the right way. 

At the time, Tom’s daughter Rachel was just four years old. As the business grew, she grew up alongside it — spending time in the office, accompanying her dad on job sites, and learning the realities of the industry firsthand. From an early age, she was exposed to estimating, project planning, and the operational challenges of running a contracting company. As a child, she would often joke that one day she would rename the company “REM” to reflect her own initials — a lighthearted remark that foreshadowed her long-term connection to the business. 

In the early 2000s, T.E.M. Group expanded beyond the home office into Lexington and later Louisville. During this period, the company performed a wide range of commercial electrical work while building the experience, relationships, and internal capabilities that would support its next phase. Several team members who joined during these formative years remain with the company today and continue to play key leadership roles. 

As its capabilities and team strengthened, T.E.M. Group evolved into increasingly complex industrial and infrastructure projects. This transition was driven by disciplined execution, strong leadership, and a commitment to operating in regulated environments. Over time, the company became especially known for its work in water, waste water, airport and aviation infrastructure, and utility systems — markets where reliability, coordination, and compliance are critical. 

In 2009, T.E.M. Group was recognized as Kentucky Small Business of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and Tom Masterson was invited to the White House for a reception with the President — a milestone reflecting the company’s growth and reputation for excellence. 

Leadership Today and Looking Ahead 

While deeply connected to the business from a young age, Rachel intentionally pursued education and professional experience outside of T.E.M. Group before joining full-time. She earned both an undergraduate business degree and a master’s degree, and gained experience working in venture capital, developing a strong foundation in financial analysis, strategy, and scalable growth. 

Today, Rachel serves as President and Majority Owner, leading the company with a focus on disciplined growth, strong financial controls, workforce development, and long-term sustainability. Under her leadership, T.E.M. Group continues to invest in people, systems, and leadership depth to support responsible growth. 

Throughout the company’s history, leadership has been built intentionally. From the earliest days, Tom Masterson focused on surrounding the business with capable, trusted people. That same philosophy continues today, as long-tenured leaders work closely with emerging leaders through active mentorship and collaboration — ensuring continuity of knowledge, high standards, and core values across generations. 

Tom Masterson remains involved as Founder and Strategic Advisor, providing historical perspective while supporting a thoughtful leadership transition. 

From its beginnings at a kitchen table to its role today supporting critical infrastructure across Kentucky, T.E.M. Group’s history is defined by disciplined growth, trusted relationships, and work that matters. With an experienced leadership team and a new generation at the helm, the company remains focused on keeping essential infrastructure running — today and for decades to come.