Focal Point Controls Inc. is a rapidly emerging leader in quality control solutions and industrial wiring.

Founded in late 2021 as a home-based business, Focal Point Controls initially concentrated on designing complex industrial control solutions for clients in Southern Ontario and the United States. The company steadily expanded by collaborating with established firms that required additional support. Before long, Focal Point Controls began building control systems that ranged from simple to complex, either designed in-house or developed in partnership with other control firms.

In May 2026, as the founder simultaneously operated a small electrical contracting business and acquired more electrical work, it was decided to integrate that company's electrical wiring services into Focal Point Controls, leading to its closure.

Focal Point Controls Inc. is now a comprehensive provider offering complete control packages and on-site industrial wiring solutions. We are excited to bring this diverse skill set to our current and future clients.

James Ashton is a Master Electrician with both 309A and 442A electrical licenses.  James also carries the C.Tech designation issued by The Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT)

His career began in the late 1990s when he apprenticed as a 309A with an industrial contractor. Throughout his career, James has gained invaluable experience in both commercial and industrial wiring methods. A few years after obtaining his 309A license, he worked as a maintenance electrician at various manufacturing facilities, where he earned his 442A license and developed a comprehensive skill set in controls and automation.

James then joined several system integrators, further refining his expertise in control design, PLC and HMI programming, debugging, as well as site commissioning and support.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, James faced layoffs due to border restrictions between Canada and the U.S. This challenging period inspired him to establish Focal Point Controls Inc., where he committed himself to building his business from the ground up. He aims to bring on apprentices to share his knowledge and insights about the diverse field of electrical work.

Additionally, James imparts his extensive electrical knowledge to future generations by teaching at three local colleges in their electrical apprenticeship programs. Over the past decade, he has taught courses in electrical theory, electrical code, PLCs, and control wiring.