Workforce development remains one of the most pressing issues facing the electrical construction industry today. As demand for electrical systems continues to grow, we face the challenge of ensuring our industry has the skilled men and women needed to power our future. That demand is driven by innovation, more widespread electrification and infrastructure investment.

At NECA, we believe that the solution begins with strengthening recruitment efforts and building lasting pathways into our trade. Together with our partners at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), we are working to ensure that the next generation of electricians, project managers and leaders are well-prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. Our shared commitment is to create opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds while delivering the highest standards of training and professionalism.

Several weeks ago, NECA’s senior vice president of industry development, Ronald Bailey, highlighted this mission on Capitol Hill. Speaking at the Rayburn House Office Building alongside representatives from the Niskanen Center, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), Eaton, Schneider Electric, the National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED) and Sonepar, Bailey expressed how America’s veterans can play a vital role in closing our nation’s workforce gap. Veterans bring unmatched discipline, leadership and technical ability to our industry. As he made clear, hiring veterans is not only the right thing to do, it is a strategic investment in the future of electrical construction and of our nation.

NECA is part of several programs that support this transition, offering mentorship, on-the-job training and industry-recognized credentials that allow veterans to thrive after military service. Some of these services are offered to NECA members through direct partnership with Veteran Internships Providing Employment Readiness (VIPER) and continued support of the Veterans Electrical Entry Program (VEEP) and Helmets to Hardhats. These efforts are part of our broader workforce development strategy, one that prioritizes outreach, training and long-term growth for individuals entering the electrical field.

We know that the challenges are significant but so is the opportunity. By investing in workforce recruitment and by continuing to strengthen our partnerships with the IBEW, industry stakeholders and policymakers, we are ensuring that electrical contractors have the skilled workers they need to deliver on the promise of electrification, sustainability and innovation.

Kirk Davis
President, NECA