Triangle IEC: Nick Russell Gets the Job Done

BY IEC STAFF Nick Russell is one committed guy. Merit shop electrical contractors in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill North Carolina area look forward to growing their business due to Nick and the team of dedicated volunteers who led the charge to form the Triangle IEC.  After successful efforts during its provisional status period, IEC granted full…

Read More

Take Training to the Next Level: Using Technology to Increase Performance Outcomes on the Job

By Danielle Rose, Interplay Learning  As the skilled trades continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: the need for efficient, hands-on training. Leveraging technology can bridge the gap between theory and practice, ultimately improving learning outcomes and workforce readiness. In this article, we’ll explore how simulation-based learning and virtual reality (VR) can enhance training programs…

Read More

IEC Policy Analysis: Second Trump Administration

By Jason Todd, IEC Vice President, Government Affairs The November 5 election will, generally speaking, result in a positive change in policy for IEC. Below outlines my day after the election take on what a second Trump administration may mean for IEC.    Labor / Workforce Policy  During his first presidency, the Trump administration issued…

Read More

Jody Chembars Grows in Skills and Confidence

Jody with his parents.  BY IEC STAFF After a pretty astounding spring and summer, IEC Atlanta third year apprentice Jody Chembars, SilverMoon Electric, is even more committed to his craft. Jody is proud to be an electrician and glad to be working with his dad and brother in the family business.  Initially, Jody went the…

Read More

Apprenticeship Over the Years

By Chrissy L. Skudera  One of the earliest documented instances of apprenticeship dates back to ancient Mesopotamia. The Code of Hammurabi, a Babylonian legal text dating back to 1750 BC, required artisans to teach their craft to youth. One of the most documented skills is the training of scribes. In addition to learning cuneiform —…

Read More

Hiring and Retention Strategies for Electrical Contractors

By John Meibers, Deltek ComputerEase  The electrical contracting industry faces unique challenges in hiring and retaining skilled workers. With the increasing demand for electrical services, coupled with a shortage of qualified professionals, it’s crucial for electrical contractors to implement effective strategies to attract and retain top talent.  Contractors have been facing a labor shortage for…

Read More

I’M/POWER Drives Interest in the Trades and IEC

BY IEC STAFF Fourteen individuals committed to the six-month IEC Emerging Leaders program, determined to grow by participating in skills development workshops, networking opportunities, leadership exercises, and project development experiences. They got what they signed up for…and more.  “The Emerging Leaders experience has really sort of opened my eyes to a whole other layer of…

Read More

The Rising Importance of Semiconductors: The Backbone of Modern Technology

In today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, semiconductors have become the backbone of nearly every device we use. From smartphones and laptops to medical devices and electric vehicles, semiconductors are the unsung heroes driving innovation and transforming industries worldwide. But what exactly are semiconductors, and why are they so crucial? What Are Semiconductors? Semiconductors are materials…

Read More