By the early 1970s, Pike was managing large-scale transmission and substation projects across multiple states, and suburban expansion was proceeding at a breakneck pace. But the oil embargo from 1973 to 1975 had a very negative impact on Pike’s utility customers, and consequently, demand for work drastically decreased. And in 1975, Floyd Pike’s sudden passing brought a moment of reckoning. His son, Joe B. Pike, stepped up to lead during one of the company’s most difficult periods. Under Joe’s hand, Pike stabilized and weathered the downturn, emerging from hardship with renewed focus and prepared for a new chapter of growth.