McKinstry was founded in 1960. However, it has a history dating back to 1934. George Allen and Merrill McKinstry formed the company as a result of the death of W.E. Beggs Company owner William Beggs. Like virtually all of the mechanical contractors of the 1960s, McKinstry originated as a plumbing and piping services firm. However, over the following decade, McKinstry added sheet metal, fire protection and temperature controls to its core capabilities and pioneered the design/build method of mechanical construction. McKinstry is now a full service mechanical contractor in the Pacific Northwest, with annual sales in the $100 million range. It employs around 650 staff and field technicians who help deliver a wide range of services, including mechanical construction, engineering, architectural metal, maintenance and facility management to many clients. Headquartered in Seattle, it also has branch facilities in Portland, Ore.