HYLAN History
HYLAN was originally founded in 1960 as Hylan Electric Company, a residential electrical contractor. Through year-after-year growth and strategic acquisitions, HYLAN offers full-service turnkey communications solutions, electrical infrastructure design and construction services for wireline, wireless and smart city municipal services across a wide variety of end-markets throughout the U.S., including the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Central, Southwest and West regions.
HYLAN’s mission is to continue to be a strong leader in the race to build the nation’s communications, electrical, and smart-city infrastructure by achieving extraordinary results for our customers, building meaningful careers for our people, and connecting the future.
1960s
Founded as a residential electrical contractor by John DiLeo Sr.
In March of 1960, HYLAN emerged from humble beginnings in the basement of DiLeo Hardware, nestled at the intersection of Hylan Blvd and Reid Ave in the Dongan Hills neighborhood of Staten Island, NY. Starting out as a local Staten Island residential electrical contractor, our journey epitomizes the transformative evolution of a small enterprise serving a local community and gradually blossoming into a major player in the electrical contracting industry serving multiple major markets throughout the United States.
1970s
Early 1970s: Becomes an IBEW Local 3 contractor
In the early 1970s, HYLAN took a notable step in becoming an IBEW Local 3 contractor and focused on commercial work. This strategic decision marked a pivotal moment in our history, as we aligned ourselves with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 3, a prominent labor union representing electrical workers in the United States. This move reflected our commitment to fostering strong labor relations and ensuring the well-being of its workforce. Joining forces with IBEW Local 3 not only provided us with access to a skilled and organized pool of electricians but also positioned the company within a network of industry professionals dedicated to upholding high standards in electrical work. The partnership with IBEW Local 3 brought about a range of benefits to HYLAN, including enhanced training for our workforce, improved safety standards, and a collective bargaining framework that facilitated fair and equitable labor practices. This strategic decision not only contributed to our growth and success but also showcased its dedication to fostering a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with our employees, ultimately solidifying our position as a key player in the electrical contracting industry during that transformative period.
1980s
Mid 1980s: Performs its first wireline job for NYC’s leading cable operator
In the mid-1980s, HYLAN emerged as a pivotal player in the infrastructure landscape, undertaking a significant role in the deployment of underground coaxial wiring on Staten Island for major cable companies. The company’s influence extended beyond the borough, as it took charge of aerial coaxial installations in the outer boroughs of New York City. During this era, we spearheaded extensive and robust construction projects, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s landscape by installing tens of thousands of coaxial cable miles. We are also the first company to activate the first piece of cable in Brooklyn, NY, which was at the intersection of 65th street and 5th avenue. This era not only marked a period of substantial growth for us, but also played a crucial role in shaping the telecommunications infrastructure that would support the burgeoning demand for cable services in New York City.
1990s
Late 1990s: Experiences tremendous growth in fiber optic installation work
During the 1990s, HYLAN underwent a remarkable period of growth marked by its substantial involvement in the burgeoning field of fiber optic installations within the dynamic landscape of New York City. As technological advancements paved the way for the digital era, there was an escalating demand for robust and high-speed communication infrastructure. HYLAN, recognizing the potential of fiber optics, positioned itself at the forefront of this telecommunications revolution. Our commitment to excellence and innovation became evident as we played a pivotal role in the deployment of fiber optic networks across New York City. These installations not only facilitated faster and more reliable communication but also laid the groundwork for the city’s digital transformation. Our expertise in navigating the intricate urban environment of New York City, with its densely populated areas and complex infrastructure, set us apart as a leader in the industry.
2000s
Early 2000s: Receives first Municipal contract for street light maintenance in the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan
Mid 2000s: Completes its first Municipal job with major Municipal GC on the Staten Island Expressway
2007: Constructs first DAS system, beginning wireless business
HYLAN achieved a transformative milestone by securing its first municipal contract for streetlight maintenance in New York City, specifically in the diverse and bustling boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan. This strategic undertaking not only showcased HYLAN’s growing influence in the area but also demonstrated its commitment to enhancing urban infrastructure in two of New York City’s most iconic and populous boroughs. The successful completion of this project laid a foundation for HYLAN’s expanding role in municipal initiatives and set the stage for its future endeavors in enhancing public services and urban connectivity. The company also achieved a significant breakthrough in 2007 by completing its first municipal project in collaboration with a major General Contractor on the Staten Island Expressway.
Simultaneously, HYLAN entered the wireless domain, marking the inception of its wireless business, with the construction of its first Distributed Antenna System (DAS) in the same year. HYLAN experienced significant growth in the wireless business following the completion of its first Distributed Antenna System (DAS) build in 2007. This marked the inception of a dynamic phase in which we actively engaged with the evolving landscape of wireless technology. As demand for enhanced connectivity surged, our expertise in constructing robust and efficient DAS systems positioned them as a key player in the wireless infrastructure sector.
The expansion in the wireless business not only reflected our adaptability to technological advancements but also underscored its pivotal role in shaping the connectivity landscape, fostering increased efficiency and connectivity in the ever-evolving world of wireless communication.
2010s
This financial infusion provided the impetus for HYLAN’s strategic expansion and reinforced its position as a leader in the industry.2016: Receives significant investment and eclipses $100mm in revenue
2018: Acquisition of Down Under Construction, Western Utility, and Hylan West under the NEW HYLAN corporate brand
2019: HYLAN Companies accelerate growth throughout western US; moves HQ to iconic Bell Works building
In a transformative chapter of its journey, HYLAN achieved a major milestone by securing a substantial investment, propelling the company to surpass the impressive benchmark of 100 million dollars in revenue. This financial infusion provided the impetus for HYLAN’s strategic expansion and reinforced its position as a leader in the industry.
In 2018, HYLAN further strengthened its market presence through strategic acquisitions of Down Under Construction, Western Utility, and Hylan West under the NEW HYLAN corporate brand, solidifying its portfolio and enhancing its capabilities.
A year later, we made another significant move as the company relocated our headquarters to the iconic Bell Works building in Holmdel, NJ. This strategic shift to such a historic and innovative space underscored our commitment to growth, innovation, and establishing a dynamic hub for its operations. These strategic moves and milestones exemplify HYLAN’s continuous evolution and leadership within the telecommunications and infrastructure sectors.
2020s
2024: All HYLAN Companies become one HYLAN.
In 2024, we made a strategic decision to unify our identity by consolidating under a single banner, operating exclusively as HYLAN. This move was a pivotal moment, symbolizing unity, and a cohesive vision within the company. This represented a significant milestone for the company, signifying unity and a singular vision. The rebranding initiative aimed to boost brand recognition, simplify communication, and fortify the company’s presence in the ever-changing market landscape.