Case Study: How Reinhart Electric Secured a 3rd-Generation Business Against Modern Threats

by Nov 29, 2025All Case Studies, All Posts, Business, Construction, Cybersecurity, IT Support

Client: Reinhart Electric

Services Provided: Microsoft 365 migration and management, Cybersecurity upgrades, IT support and consulting, Secure file sharing and backup, Vendor coordination (Google, Comcast)

From DIY IT to a Trusted Tech Partner

Founded in 1952, Reinhart Electric is a three-generation, family-owned electrical company based in Renton, Washington. Today, it’s run by brothers Dave and Steve Reinhart, who carry on their family legacy. of trusted residential and small business services across the Puget Sound region.

Their team primarily works with homeowners, small commercial clients, and property managers, often building long-term relationships based on reliability, craftsmanship, and clear communication.

As CFO, Laurie Reinhart managed everything from payroll to web hosting, including IT, despite not having a background in tech.

“At first I thought, ‘We don’t need IT services.’ Then I realized I didn’t even know what I was missing, and Tony did.”

For a long time, Laurie just needed basic tech support: internet setup, email accounts, and printer help. But as technology evolved and became more complex, so did the risks.

The Wake-Up Call: A Payment Scam

A few years after bringing WatchTower on board, Reinhart Electric faced a moment that made the importance of cybersecurity very clear. A customer called with a red flag: they’d received an email from Reinhart Electric with updated banking details. But Laurie hadn’t sent it, and neither had anyone on her team.

The email was fake. But it was convincing enough to almost reroute a client payment. That’s when Laurie realized it was time to take security even more seriously.

“Tony told me I had hackers from trying to login to our email system from Pakistan and China. I was like, what?! That was the wake-up call.”

How WatchTower Helped

  • Migrated Reinhart Electric from basic email to Microsoft 365
  • Increased cybersecurity to block spoofing and phishing attacks
  • Set up secure, centralized file sharing and cloud backups
  • Helped recover control of suspended Google business services
  • Coordinated better pricing and service with internet vendors
  • Continues to provide on-call support and guidance

Support That Grows With You

Laurie didn’t just need a fix. She needed a partner who understood the business and could grow with it. One thing she appreciated most was that she was never made to feel bad for not knowing the ins and outs of IT. Instead, she got clear, patient guidance that met her where she was. WatchTower still guides her through system upgrades. They also help with training, vendor issues, and everyday tech questions.

“Tony has always treated us like we’re one of his big clients. There’s an integrity there you just don’t see much in the business world anymore.”

Why It Matters for Trade Businesses

If you’re in a trade like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC:

  • You handle sensitive customer information
  • You rely on email and scheduling tools
  • You likely don’t have dedicated IT staff

That makes you a prime target for cyber threats. It also means you’re a great fit for a partner like WatchTower.

The Result

Since working with WatchTower, Reinhart Electric has:

  • Prevented fraud attempts
  • Secured customer trust
  • Reduced downtime and confusion around tech
  • Regained control of their web presence

Laurie has peace of mind knowing her systems are protected. And someone she trusts is just a phone call away.

“Tony’s that guy. I don’t have to know how everything works, because I know he does.”

The Bottom Line

You don’t have to be a tech expert to protect your business. You just need the right partner.

Let’s talk about where your company is headed. We’ll show you how WatchTower can help you get there.

Schedule a consultation here.

Tony Sollars

Tony Sollars