John R. Colson is the former CEO and founder of Quanta Services, Inc., a leading provider of specialized infrastructure services in the electrical and communications industries. With decades of experience, he began his career in 1971 at PAR Electrical Contractors,...

John R. Colson is the former CEO and founder of Quanta Services, Inc., a leading provider of specialized infrastructure services in the electrical and communications industries. With decades of experience, he began his career in 1971 at PAR Electrical Contractors, a company he helped grow into a key player in the industry. Colson was officially CEO from 1997 until 2011, during which time he led the company to significant financial performance, aligning executive pay with measurable company goals such as operating income and return on equity. He also played an important role in Quanta's initial public offering and subsequent growth. Known for his analytical approach, Colson prioritized linking compensation to performance, ensuring that incentives were aligned with the company's success. After announcing his retirement in 2013, he stepped down as CEO but remained influential in the industry as an executive chairman. His tenure lasted through critical periods in the business, and he strategically planned his exit to ensure a smooth transition for his successor, valuing the future of the company he built.