One unavoidable fact is that our industry is constantly changing, and in order for our businesses to stay ahead, we have to keep up. The technology involved in our day-to-day projects is evolving, and we have to adapt and innovate in order to position ourselves to take on these projects. No matter the size or reach of an electrical contracting firm, innovation is key to positioning ourselves for future success.

However, some people hear “innovation” and immediately their mind goes to artificial intelligence or devices out of a science fiction movie. In reality, “innovation” means something different for every electrical contractor.

Think about your goals as a company and the people within your company who can help you accomplish those goals. What types of work would you like to be a part of? What tools or education do you need to position yourself to take on these projects? And, perhaps most important, what do you need to do to future-proof your company and ensure its success when current leadership chooses to step aside?

As I mentioned before, every EC will have different answers to all these questions. At NECA, we are working to provide the tools and resources for our members to move their companies forward, develop new business and help advance the careers of the people in their company that are positioned to be agents of innovation.

I encourage all of you to think about what “innovation” means for your company and what steps you can take to ensure your company thrives in the face of an industry that is changing every day.