Our Corporate Leadership Team
Joel Worthington
President
Joel Worthington joined The Dwyer Group® in 2009 when he became a franchise developer for Mr. Electric. From 2010-2011 he served as a franchise consultant for the organization before being named vice president. Joel was named president of Mr. Electric in 2014.
Career Highlights
Joel’s career in franchising began in 2006 with DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen, an affiliate of The Dwyer Group, where he served as recruiter and vice president of recruiting and development. Before entering franchising Joel was a pastor of 16 years. Joel has focused on strategic initiatives during his time with Mr. Electric by creating new sales, customer service, commercial sales program and accounting systems while revamping the training and education platforms. Joel represents the electrical industry well, serving on the Executive Board of Electrical Safety Foundation International. Joel is also involved in community service through the Habitat for Humanity program.
Education
He has a BA in Biblical Studies from Trinity Bible College and a BS in Professional Studies from Southwestern University. In 2014 Joel received the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) designation through the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) Institute of Certified Franchise Executives.
Craig Gjelsten
Vice President of Operations
Craig Gjelsten joined Mr. Electric in 2014 as the Vice President of Operations. His current position with Mr. Electric includes a leadership role in franchise support, training, continuous improvement in systems and processes, as well as implementation of industry specific best practices.
Career Highlights
Craig previously served as the Director of Onboarding and Compliance for Rainbow International and was responsible for working with all new franchisees in the areas of marketing, operations, management, finance and technical issues. Craig received the Rainbow Team Member of the Year award for 2013. Prior to coming to The Dwyer Group in 2012, Craig served as the Vice President of Business Development for a Rainbow International franchise, achieving the Top Gun award the first two years in business. Craig also received the Rainbow Business Development Associate of the Year award for 2011. Prior to entering the world of franchising, he co-founded two businesses and served in consultative management roles. Craig is heavily involved in community service through local volunteer organizations and received Mission Waco’s Volunteer of the Year award in 2014.
Education
Craig graduated Summa cum Laude from the Naval Postgraduate School with a Master of Arts degree and was nominated for the school’s Outstanding Research Award. He also earned a Master of Science degree, graduating Summa cum Laude from National-Louis University. Craig’s undergraduate degree is in Management from Southern Illinois University, graduating Summa cum Laude. In 2015 Craig received the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) designation through the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) Institute of Certified Franchise Executives.