“Take a look. It’s in a book” is a line from the very catchy theme song to the classic children’s TV show, Reading Rainbow, which aired on PBS from 1986–2006. This incredibly popular show encouraged kids around the country (including two future editors in suburban Pittsburgh and Philadelphia) to become avid readers, enjoy learning and think books are cool.
While workforce development programs and initiatives don’t have catchy theme songs that will stick in your head all day, they are critical for growing the electrical construction industry, getting more people interested in joining and inspiring workers to continue learning their craft.
Susan Bloom starts this workforce development issue of ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR with programs in the industry designed for returning veterans, including VEEP and VIPER. Representatives from two electrical contractors explain why hiring veterans is good for their companies and electrical construction on the whole. Turn to “The Industry Wants You” on page 18 for more.
Next, Susan DeGrane spends some time in Utah to explore how different recruitment strategies are effective for each generation. One size doesn’t fit all. Check out “Generating New Recruitment Strategies” on page 34.
But how can people continue to learn new skills and grow in their careers once they’ve joined? Donny Metcalf uses his experience as a contractor to offer some leadership strategies for new and existing leaders. “A Leader Is as a Leader Does” is on page 46.
On page 62, Katie Kuehner-Hebert talks about lifelong learning in “Don’t Stand Skill.” The electrical construction industry is always changing, and workers have to keep up. Katie gives examples of certifications, training programs and statewide coalitions contractors can take advantage of to keep their skills sharp.
Finally, Susan Bloom takes us to DePauw University in Greencastle, Ind., to showcase Electric Plus’ work on the university’s new library. Read about how the team worked around an active campus in “An Epic Academic Achievement” on page 54.
On page 40, you’ll find “Another Twist in the Old Pretzel,” which is Gerry Ittig’s final Legal column in these pages. Gerry has been giving his expert legal opinions in ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR since 1999. Here’s what he had to say: “For more years than I want to count, I have enjoyed keeping readers knowledgeable on legal issues important to their businesses. And I have equally enjoyed positive responses from readers about my writings.” Thanks, Gerry, for your years of expert articles. We’ll miss having your work in the magazine (and your great headlines, including this month’s).
We also have SAFETY LEADER in this edition. Check it out, starting on page 84— details below—while we brainstorm ideas for ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR’s theme song.
