August 2024
As we prepare to turn the calendar to September, for many of you, it’s time once again for your apprentices to return to classes at the IEC chapters. I’d like to take a moment to thank you – our contractor members – for what you do to support the future electrical workforce.
From taking part in numerous IEC graduations, talking with apprentices in my own New Jersey IEC chapter, meeting apprentices at IEC events, and reading the Apprentice Profiles in Insights, I know each apprentice is appreciative of the support you provide. With the top-notch IEC curriculum, our proven earn while you learn method, and numerous career paths to explore, apprentices are positioned for success. Time and again, I’ve heard apprentices talk about how they feel cared for by their companies, their instructors, their chapter staffs, and their fellow apprentices. I believe that is what sets us up to solve the workforce shortage facing the trades nationwide.
IEC exists to build electricians. The Apprentice Program is there to teach and train the next generation. But we are more than that. We also work hard to provide our established electricians with what you need to stay vibrant and grow your businesses. Our main event of the year is around the corner, SPARK: the Electrician’s Expo, October 14-16, 2024, in Tampa, FL. It is where you can feel cared for while you explore the expo, get business-building advice in the sessions, rub elbows with your peers, and share problems and solutions. I hope you’ve registered already, but if not, head to iecspark.com today.
There is strength in unity. #WeAreIEC
Events
• SPARK: The Electrician’s Expo: October 14 – 16, 2024, Tampa, FL
• IEC Business Summit 2025: January 26 – January 29, 2025, San Antonio, TX
• IEC Policy Conference 2025: June 23 – June 25, 2025, Washington, D.C.
Meet the AOY Top Competitors
The Apprentice of the Year (AOY) Competition at SPARK is heating up! Meet the top competitors who are ready to showcase their skills and vie for the title. Visit iecspark.com/expo-hall to learn more about these talented individuals.
Upcoming Webinar:
• Troubleshooting Common Issues in Limited Energy Systems: Sep 18, 2024, at 1:00PM CDT. Click here to register.
Advocacy
IEC Advocacy Updates Delivered to Your Phone
You can receive the latest updates from IEC advocacy directly to your mobile device. By texting ‘IECACT’ to 50457, you will receive the latest action alerts, newsletters, and updates on IEC’s efforts to advocate on behalf of merit shop electrical contractors.
Act Now! Help the Freedom Fund Fight for the Merit Shop!
By supporting the IEC Freedom Fund, you will help IEC be prepared to fight for merit shop electrical contractors regardless of what political party controls the White House. Help IEC reach its goal of $500,000 by donating today! View all the ways the Freedom Fund has been working for you by clicking here.
Foundation
Zoey’s Room
Join us in a mission to honor the memory of a beloved daughter, taken too soon from her friends and family. In partnership with Bridging Freedom, IEC Foundation will be creating a walking path and Zoey’s Room, an art therapy room for survivors of child sex trafficking. These stand as a beacon of hope and a testament to our collective commitment to ending this abhorrent crime. You can make Zoey’s Room a reality. Please find the information by clicking here.
IEC Topgolf Tampa
When: Sunday, October 14, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Topgolf Tampa, 10690 Palm River Road, Tampa, FL
Join the IEC Foundation for three hours of unlimited golf, premium buffet style meal, live auctions and raffles, and karaoke. Plus, make a hole in 1 for a $25,000 prize. For more information on registration and sponsorship, click here.
Safety
Promote Mental Health: Take Action
IEC is spotlighting Construction Suicide Prevention Week, Sept. 9-13, a crucial initiative aimed at supporting mental health in the electrical industry. Visit our Safety page to learn more about why this focus is vital and explore resources that can help foster a safer, more supportive workplace.
Other News
Artificial Intelligence: Evaluating Risks and Rewards
Throw “AI” into Google search and you get a mere 249,000,000 results. That’s a lot of information. Some IEC members have already implemented AI technology into their daily work, some are deep into investigation, and others are beginning to contemplate these tools for their business.
In the July / August issue of Insights magazine, Ros Bayley, vice president practice leader at Hiscox US, provides contractors with tips based on research and experience.
“There are so many opportunities for contractors to use AI and to use it safely,” Ros concludes. “There are massive cost-saving and time-saving benefits allowing more time for you to do the work you love to do.” Read the article now.
IEC Atlanta/Georgia Apprentice Advances to the Finals!
Jody Chembars, third-year apprentice of the IEC Apprenticeship Program, has made it to the finals of the 2024 IDEAL Championship after winning local and regional challenges, placing him in the top 10 and earning his invitation to the finals. Competing in a series of challenges that tested accuracy, speed, workmanship, code, and electrical theory, Jody proved his skills and dedication, securing his spot among the best. The finals will take place in West Palm Beach, FL, where he’ll compete for the $10,000 grand prize on September 13. We’re cheering you on, Jody!
Partners
Webinar: Understanding corrosion in electrical conduits for wastewater treatment environments
When: Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Time: 12:00 PM ET
The webinar will outline the potential threats to electrical conduits in wastewater treatment environments and outline considerations for optimizing design and production to enhance conduit durability and reliability. Learn more and register here.
Bend the Rules with the Greenlee® Dual-Shoe Hand Bender
Get precise, quality bends on 1/2″ EMT, Rigid, and IMC and 3/4″ EMT conduits with the Greenlee Dual-Shoe Hand Bender. Inner angle markings line the shoe for precision and easy visibility, while a large foot pedal maximizes control and stability. With a wide base that allows the tool to stand on its own, this tool seamlessly fits into any jobsite. Our Site-Rite® sighting system allows you to see in low-light conditions, delivering accuracy and efficiency on every job. Learn More here.
