Tailored Solutions From an Experienced and Trusted Team
about us
Our unique partnerships with industry-leading product manufacturers in combination with our unparalleled personalized customer service have contributed to Great Western Specialty Systems’ success and longevity in the industry. We approach each project poised to navigate its nuances so that we may continue to provide engineering and contracting services of the highest quality. With our state-of-the-art products and equipment, we seek to maximize value but at a reasonable cost and without cutting corners. Due to the comprehensive experience and top-tier expertise of our team, we are proud to serve a diverse and growing marketplace.
Guided by results-driven business practices
About GWSS
trusted by:
darren Barnes, project manager
marc Hijar, vice president
Our Leadership Team
Get to Know Darren Barnes
Darren is a skilled and detail-oriented project leader with 25 years of experience in the electrical industry, specializing in commercial, industrial, and low-voltage systems. He oversees and meticulously documents every aspect of projects from start to finish, ensuring that all work aligns with the established scope, stays on schedule, and remains within budget. Darren collaborates closely with upper management, coordinates efforts between the design department and field foremen, and expertly schedules manpower for both projects and service work. His dedication extends through to project completion, where he manages all closeout tasks to ensure client satisfaction.
Darren’s expertise is supported by robust training and certifications, including IEC NM Trained Journeyman, Texas Journeyman, and Texas A&M High Voltage Lineman & Safety Training. He has also completed the IEC Project Management Course and holds OSHA 10 certification, reflecting his commitment to safety and excellence. Darren’s hands-on experience and proactive approach make him a trusted leader in delivering successful, well-executed projects.
project manager of gwss
Get to Know Marc Hijar
Marc is a quality-focused, proactive leader with a hands-on management style, driven by customer satisfaction. As a mentor, he routinely works with the workforce to educate, build, and foster knowledge and confidence, increasing employee efficiency and growth. A capable manager, Marc utilizes solid planning and organizational skills along with a broad electrical background to navigate the company in new directions while mitigating obstacles. He continually refines methods and processes to minimize problems and eliminate deficiencies.
With over 33 years of experience in electrical systems spanning residential, commercial, industrial, and specialty applications, Marc brings a wealth of expertise to his role overseeing all company departments. He collaborates closely with marketing and sales teams to shape the corporate image and strategic direction while fostering personnel development and mentoring to enhance employee efficiency. His work involves engaging with current and new vendors and customers to drive business development, overseeing systems design, and coordinating with suppliers and manufacturers to explore and implement emerging technologies, materials, and methods that benefit clients.
Marc’s educational background includes the Independent Electrical Contractors Apprentice Program and courses from the Anderson School of Management at UNM. He has held leadership positions such as Chief Estimator and Field Superintendent and actively contributes to industry organizations as a member of the IEC Specialty Systems Committee and ASHRAE. Certifications such as Crestron DMC-E-4K, Siemens VESDA & XLS, and Geffan Digital Signage Creator highlight his commitment to staying at the forefront of technology and innovation.
vice president of gwss
The GWSS Difference
- Strong Relationships: We build lasting partnerships with clients and manufacturers to ensure trust and satisfaction.
- Exceptional Post-Sale Support: We strive to provide outstanding support after the sale, addressing a gap often seen in the industry.
- Quality Products and Partnerships: We work with trusted manufacturers to deliver reliable, high-performing systems.
- Holistic Approach: We focus on overarching goals and client needs, not just individual systems, to ensure optimal solutions.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service: We offer round-the-clock support to handle urgent issues and minimize downtime.
- Comprehensive Inventory: We stock parts and supplies for fast maintenance and repair turnaround.
- Customized Design Process: We create tailored systems for security, audio, and visual needs that fit each client’s unique requirements.
