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Marie Thornton

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20260715_123847

Pipe Bending and Potential: Inspiring Future Electricians at IEC

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Pipe Bending and Potential: Inspiring Future Electricians at IEC

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

Recently, Marcus Benson, IEC’s Workforce Development Coordinator, had the pleasure of hosting 25 students from the Georgia Tech Electrical Systems & Sustainability Summer Camp. The visit offered these young minds a firsthand look into the electrical industry and highlighted how IEC can support their future career training.

During their visit, the students enjoyed a comprehensive tour of the facility. Under the expert guidance of IEC Technical Coordinator Justin Simmons, they even rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on pipe-bending demonstration.

A special thank you to Dr. Marwan Shagar for introducing his camp students to the world of IEC. At IEC, we believe in sparking an interest in electrical careers early on. We see their incredible potential—now they just have to choose the path!


 

 

Books

IEC August Enrollment Ends, and Classes Start Soon

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IEC August Enrollment Ends, and Classes Start Soon

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

IEC Successfully met its goal enrolling 1500 students ready for classes beginning August 17th!  The growth continues, the training facility expands and new instructors are joining the ranks!  If you missed the August Enrollment, October Enrollment is just around the corner.  October Enrollment will open August 24th and closes September 10th.  This gives members just enough time to regroup and organize your 1st year apprentices, and non-members just enough time to join IEC to enroll your workers.

16 pallets and we are ready for 1,500 apprentices! Get ready to train on a New Level with IEC!

 

IEC GRADS 2026-247

Jacob Phillips Named IEC Atlanta’s 2026 Apprentice of the Year

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Jacob Phillips Named IEC Atlanta’s 2026 Apprentice of the Year

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Atlanta Chapter proudly recognizes Jacob Phillips of Valley View Enterprises, Inc. as the 2026 Apprentice of the Year (AOY).

The Apprentice of the Year competition is one of the most prestigious and challenging events within the IEC apprenticeship program. Each year, fourth-year apprentices compete for the coveted title by demonstrating both their technical skills and electrical knowledge through two rigorous competitions: a hands-on Wire-Off Competition and a comprehensive written examination covering material from all four years of apprenticeship training.

The contestant earning the highest combined score is awarded the title of IEC Atlanta Apprentice of the Year and earns the honor of representing the Atlanta Chapter at the IEC National Apprentice of the Year Competition during the IEC SPARK Convention, taking place October 21–24, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio. Along with the opportunity to compete nationally, the winner receives a trip for two and $500 in spending money.

2026 Apprentice of the Year Competitors

This year’s competition featured four outstanding apprentices representing some of Atlanta’s leading electrical contractors:

  • Jacob Phillips, Valley View Enterprises, Inc.
  • Tyler Brooks, ATS Electrical Enterprises, Inc.
  • Jody Chembars, Silvermoon Electric
  • TJ Mitchell, Capital City Electrical Services

IEC Atlanta congratulates all competitors for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence in the electrical industry.

Competition Results

4th Place: Jody Chembars, Silvermoon Electric

3rd Place: TJ Mitchell, Capital City Electrical Services

2nd Place: Tyler Brooks, ATS Electrical Enterprises, Inc.

1st Place and 2026 Apprentice of the Year: Jacob Phillips, Valley View Enterprises, Inc.

As the top finisher, Jacob also received a backpack filled with professional tools donated by Southwire through its Top Gun Program.

Recognizing Excellence

In recognition of the contractor who employed and supported this year’s winning apprentice, Durand Smith of Valley View Enterprises, Inc. was presented with the 2026 Contractor Cup, honoring the company’s commitment to workforce development and apprenticeship training.

IEC Atlanta also extends its sincere appreciation to Bethanie Bergman and Milwaukee Tool for providing gifts to each Apprentice of the Year contestant, helping make this year’s competition a memorable experience for all participants.

Additionally, IEC’s Platinum Partner, Federated Insurance, continues its tradition of supporting apprentice excellence. Garrett Wardell of Federated Insurance presented Jacob Phillips with a $500 award, recognizing the dedication, effort, and achievement required to earn the title of Apprentice of the Year.

Looking Ahead

The Apprentice of the Year competition showcases the exceptional talent, technical expertise, and professionalism being developed through IEC’s nationally recognized apprenticeship program. We congratulate Jacob Phillips on this outstanding accomplishment and wish him the best as he represents IEC Atlanta at the National Apprentice of the Year Competition this fall in Columbus, Ohio.

The future of the electrical industry is bright, and Jacob’s achievement exemplifies the next generation of skilled electrical professionals leading the way.

See all photos from this event here.

2026Grads

IEC Atlanta & Georgia Chapters Celebrate 56th Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony, 152 Graduates Honored as IEC Marks Largest Graduation Ceremony in Its History

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IEC Atlanta & Georgia Chapters Celebrate 56th Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony, 152 Graduates Honored as IEC Marks Largest Graduation Ceremony in Its History

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Atlanta and Georgia Chapters proudly celebrated the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 during its 56th Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony, held at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta NE–Norcross. The event marked a historic milestone for the association, drawing 646 attendees, making it the largest graduation ceremony in IEC Atlanta and Georgia Chapters’ history.

The ceremony recognized 152 graduates who successfully completed IEC’s electrical program, demonstrating their commitment to advancing their careers and strengthening Georgia’s electrical industry.

The evening began with welcoming remarks from Darren Lodge, Chief Operating Officer of Excel Electrical Technologies, Inc. and President of the IEC Atlanta Board of Directors.

Graduates, their families, employers, instructors, and industry leaders were inspired by keynote speaker Barbara Rivera Holmes, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Labor.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of academic and achievement awards recognizing outstanding performance throughout the training program.

More than 40 apprentices received Academic Achievement Awards, recognizing students who maintained an “A” average GPA throughout their studies.

The prestigious Academic Excellence Awards, presented to graduates earning the highest overall GPAs in their respective classes, were awarded to:

  • Andy Bolivar Andrade, Enlightening Electric
  • Hayden Olive, Conaway Electrical Service, Inc.
  • Jaime Ayala, Lewis Electrical Contractors, Inc.

The Extra Mile Award, recognizing exceptional dedication, commitment, and perseverance, was presented to Jody Chembars of Silvermoon Electric.

The Mike Gunter Achievement Award, honoring the instructor who exemplifies leadership, mentorship, and service to the electrical industry, was awarded to IEC Instructor Felix Carranza for his outstanding contributions to apprentice education and workforce development.

The evening’s highest student honor, Apprentice of the Year, was awarded to Jacob Phillips of Valley View Enterprises. This distinguished award recognizes an apprentice who demonstrates exceptional academic performance, leadership, work ethic, and commitment to the electrical trade.

As graduates crossed the stage to receive their certificates, they joined a proud tradition of IEC-trained professionals who help build and maintain the electrical infrastructure that powers homes, businesses, and communities throughout Georgia.

The record-breaking attendance reflected the continued growth and success of IEC’s training programs and the strong support from contractors, employers, instructors, families, and industry partners who invest in developing the next generation of electrical professionals.

The IEC Atlanta and Georgia Chapters congratulate the Class of 2026 and look forward to their continued success as they advance their careers and help shape the future of the electrical industry.

See all photos from this event here.

 

1st Place

IEC Georgia Chapter Hosts Successful 2026 Columbus Golf Tournament

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IEC Georgia Chapter Hosts Successful 2026 Columbus Golf Tournament

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

The IEC Georgia Chapter welcomed contractors, industry partners, and supporters to its 2026 Annual Columbus Golf Tournament on Friday, June 5, at Maple Ridge Golf Club in Columbus, Georgia. The event brought together 13 teams for a day of friendly competition, networking, and fellowship while supporting the chapter and its programs.

Participants enjoyed a full day of activities, including hitting range balls, goodie bags, contests, raffle prizes, lunch, trophies, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow industry professionals.

Congratulations to the tournament winners:
1st Place – Interstate Electrical Supplies (Score: 56)

2nd Place – Ritch Electric Co., Inc. (Score: 57)

3rd Place – Smith Gray Electric Co., Inc. (Score: 60)

Special contest winners included:

Closest to the Pin – Steven Ellis, S.M. Ellis Co.

Longest Drive – David Hawkins, Freeman & Associates

The chapter extends its appreciation to Tournament Sponsor, S.M. Ellis Co., Inc. and Master Level Sponsor Smith Gray Electric for their generous support. Additional sponsorship support was provided by Net Planner, Yancey Bros. Caterpillar, Bensource, Jordan Electric, Blue Print, Fuller Fire, and Ritch Electric.

The IEC Georgia Chapter thanks all sponsors, teams, volunteers, and participants for helping make the tournament a success. Events like these strengthen industry relationships and support the chapter’s mission of advancing the electrical industry through education, workforce development, and contractor engagement throughout Georgia.

 

1stPlace

IEC Atlanta Chapter Tees Off the Summer with its 2026 Golf Tournament

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IEC Atlanta Chapter Tees Off the Summer with its 2026 Golf Tournament

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

The IEC Atlanta and Georgia Chapters hosted the 2026 Atlanta Summer Golf Tournament on Monday, June 1st, at the Country Club of Roswell in Roswell, Georgia. The tournament brought together 34 teams and 132 golfers for a day of networking, friendly competition, and camaraderie among electrical industry professionals.

Golfers started the day with breakfast sandwiches, and coffee before a 9:00 a.m. shotgun start. Following the participants conquered 18 holes, enjoyed lunch and an awards presentation recognizing the day’s top performers.

Adding excitement to the event, Proforce sponsored a $10,000 Hole-in-One Cash Prize, giving golfers an opportunity to take home a substantial reward.

Congratulations to the tournament winners:

1st Place

  • Taylor Scherer – Sesco
  • Tyler Rachels – Sesco
  • Morgan Aubrecht – Bell and McCoy
  • Kyle Grimes – Sesco

2nd Place

  • Chad Khan – LA-Inc.
  • Luke Code – LA-Inc.
  • Kyle Guidry – LA-Inc.
  • Ben Crouder – LA-Inc.

3rd Place

  • Jordan Caviness – CED
  • Corey Ulp – CED
  • Tom Kobe – Legrand
  • Keith McLane – Legrand

Special contest winners included:

Longest Drive – Sean McGuiness, DeWalt

Closest to the Pin – James Oh, 5 Points

The IEC Atlanta chapter extends its appreciation to Tournament Sponsor Lade Electric Supply for its support in making the event a tremendous success. Events like the Summer Golf Tournament provide valuable opportunities for members, contractors, and industry partners to strengthen relationships while supporting the mission of advancing the electrical industry through education, workforce development, and professional engagement.

The IEC Atlanta Chapter thanks all sponsors, golfers, volunteers, and supporters for helping make this year’s tournament another memorable event.

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We Leveled Up! 27,500sqft Training Facility Ready to Train Your Workers!

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We Leveled Up! 27,500sqft Training Facility Ready to Train Your Workers!

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

On May 13th, IEC hosted a “Soft Open House” to give members a closer look at our new training facility!  Class rooms are still being prepared for students to return in person.  On September 2nd, be ready for our Grand Opening!  Until then, take a look at IEC on a New Level!

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IEC Georgia Celebrates a Decade of Connection at the 10th Annual Savannah Golf Tournament

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IEC Georgia Celebrates a Decade of Connection at the 10th Annual Savannah Golf Tournament

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

1st Place Team Davidson Electric

The IEC Georgia Chapter marked a milestone on Friday, May 1st, as members and partners gathered for the 10th Annual Savannah Golf Tournament at the beautiful Club at Savannah Harbor at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa. Set against the scenic backdrop of coastal Georgia, the event delivered a perfect blend of competition, camaraderie, and celebration.

From the moment players arrived, the day was designed for an exceptional experience. Registration included green fees, carts, range balls, and well-stocked goodie bags—along with on-course contests like Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin. Participants also enjoyed drinks, raffle prizes, lunch, and an awards presentation that capped off a memorable day.

With a more intimate field of 9 teams, the energy and enthusiasm ran large. The tournament showcased friendly competition and strong industry connections, highlighting the tight-knit nature of IEC Georgia’s membership.

Tournament Highlights & Winners

Competition on the course brought out some impressive performances:

  • 1st Place – Team Davidson Electric
    Matt Davidson, George Lepine, Dillon Pittman
  • 2nd Place – Team Bobcat
    Brett Martin, Chip Snelling, JD Hoft, Daniel Hudson
  • 3rd Place – Team Gaskin Electric
    Aaron Von Lemden, Andy Frick, Rommell Mandap, Bryan Glover

Special contest winners added to the excitement:

  • Closest to the Pin: Chip Snelling
  • Longest Drive: Scott Duke

Sponsors Who Made It Possible

Events like this are only possible through the generous support of IEC Georgia’s industry partners. This year’s tournament was proudly sponsored by:

  • Master Level Sponsors: Coastal Electric of Georgia and CED
  • Apprentice Level Sponsors: Legrand, City Electric Supply, Lowe Electric Supply, ESSE, SESCO, BuildOps and Bobcat

Their continued investment not only supports events like the Savannah Golf Tournament but also strengthens IEC Georgia’s mission of workforce development, education, and industry advancement.

A Decade Strong

Celebrating its 10th year, the Savannah Golf Tournament continues to serve as more than just a day on the course—it’s an opportunity to build relationships, recognize industry excellence, and bring the electrical community together in a meaningful way.

As IEC Georgia looks ahead, this milestone event reinforces the importance of connection, collaboration, and shared success across the industry.

We thank all participants, sponsors, and volunteers for making this year’s tournament a success—and we look forward to seeing everyone back on the green next year!

1stPlace

IEC Atlanta Hooks Success at Annual Fishing Tournament

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IEC Atlanta Hooks Success at Annual Fishing Tournament

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

On March 28th, the IEC Atlanta chapter hosted its Annual Fishing Tournament at the Lawrence Shoals Recreation Area on beautiful Lake Oconee.  With 29 teams participating, the event showcased both impressive angling skills and strong industry camaraderie.

Anglers hit the water early, competing for top honors and a share of $3,000 in cash prizes. The competition was fierce, with several teams bringing in outstanding catches.

Taking 1st Place, Team Reinicke Athens—Mike Blalock and Brady Whitehead—led the field with an impressive total catch weighing 18.37 lbs.

Close behind 2nd Place, Team ProTech’s Jason Duncan and Sammy Skinner brought in a strong 18.08 lbs catch.

3rd Place honors went to Team Ozburn Electric, with Steve Dobbs and Rick Smith landing 16.19 lbs.

Rounding out the top four, 4th Place was awarded to Team T.H. Mize’s Jake Daniel and Sean Duyvejonck, who weighed in at 16.10 lbs.

The coveted Big Fish Award went to Carl Cothran of LMI Systems, whose standout catch tipped the scales at 5.47 lbs.

Powered by Industry Support

Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of IEC Atlanta’s industry partners. A special thank you goes out to this year’s sponsors:

Platinum Sponsors
MetroPower | MSF Electric | Vision Electric

Gold Sponsors
ABC | Ralston Electric

Bronze Sponsor
LMI Systems

Supportive Sponsors
ABB Installation Products | Acuity Brands | ASD Lighting | Atlantic Workforce | BenSource Employee Benefits | Bell & McCoy Lighting & Controls | CED/All Phase Electric Supply | Commercial Truck & Van Equipment | Copperweld Bimetallics | Elliott Electric Supply | EMT Electrical Services | Federated Insurance | GEA Integral Services | Harbin Agency | Home Depot | JD Martin | Lade Electric Supply | Legrand | Lighting Associates | Remacable | Smart Lighting Solutions | Southern Lighting Source | Southwire | Thumbtack | WESCO | World Electric

With another successful tournament in the books, IEC Atlanta looks forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.

 

                      

 

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IEC Atlanta and NAWIC Celebrate Women in Construction During WIC Week

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IEC Atlanta and NAWIC Celebrate Women in Construction During WIC Week

By: Marie Thornton, IEC Atlanta and GA Membership and Marketing Coordinator

On March 4th, in honor Women In Construction (WIC) Week, IEC Atlanta and Georgia Chapter held its March GMM luncheon in collaboration with the Atlanta Chapter of National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) at Maggiano’s Cumberland. The topic was “Level Up, Build Strong, Inspiring the Next Generation”, with a panel of trailblazing women, to be expected for WIC Week!

Over 100 guests, NAWIC and IEC members were in attendance to hear from CEO and Owner of Southern Electric Company, Mahsa Poorak, North American Trade Association Manager with Southwire, Kristy Phillips and Associate Director of Project Management with Turner & Townsend Heery, Kellie Fletcher.  IEC’s Controller Celeste Anthony Johnson served as the perfect moderator with questions that revealed the strength possessed by the panelists.  The day was both inspirational and powerful.  Women in Construction are here to stay, and these ladies have opened doors, reached back to encourage and guide those who have come after them.  This is what fosters the growth and movement of Women in Construction.

                        

 

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