Menu

Marie

About Marie

Posts by Marie :

AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – September 18th

,

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – September 18th

As we continue to move through COVID-19, some of you may start to feel a bit fatigued by the continuous changes to everyday life.  Whether it is changing regulations, new job site protocols, lack of materials, pressures from customers and competitors, or family life, this continuous cycle becomes a drain on our emotions and attitude.  But I’m not telling you something you don’t already know and feel!  We are all working harder and very likely accomplishing less than we did before.

So how do we counteract this drain and fatigue?  Some of us turn to our faith, some to family and friends and yet others to their inner strength.  The construction business is one of the few industries that is still working.  We still have a job, an income and meaningful work to do every day.  This means being thankful every day for the opportunities that many other people do not have.  When I feel a bit fatigued, being thankful always helps me find the strength to meet the challenges of another day.  Stay strong, stay positive, and most of all be thankful!
                                                                                  Niel
 

What to do if your pet tests positive for COVID-19.  If your pet tests positive for the virus that causes COVID-19, isolate the pet from everyone else, including other pets. Do not wipe or bathe your pet with chemical disinfectants, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other products, such as hand sanitizer, counter-cleaning wipes, or other industrial or surface cleaners.

 
IEC National Red Carpet Watch Party & Happy Hour
October 30th at 3pm.  Attend a virtual pre-celebration to the President’s Gala & Awards Show!  IEC will provide everything needed in the celebration kit.  Register your party today.
 
Who will win and what it means for property?  
  •     Property has performed well under both parties. Since 1979, NCREIF property index returns have averaged better than 8.5% annually under various Democratic and Republican administrations.  
  •     Rather than elections, the cycle, the economy, interest rates, COVID-19 and geopolitical events are the areas to focus on in determining the impact on the leasing fundamentals and property values.  
  •     Longer-term, different administrations have different spending priorities that will impact where growth occurs across the nation and what industries have greater growth opportunity.  
  •     The impact on property will lag the election results, but it will be important to “follow the money” to identify potential opportunities or risks.  
Read more about how the 2020 U.S. Presidential, Congressional and Senate election results may impact property.

IEC Partners with American Council on Education’s College (ACE), which gives apprentices access to receive up to 41 college credit hours for their IEC Training. ACE revised and implemented a new platform and process which makes it easier to receive college credit.  Read more.

Professional Electrician Program (PEP) Starts October 13th and 14th.  Register your experienced workers now. Apprenticeship Application

COVID-19 OSHA/ HR Update Including Vaccine Related Issues- Webinar October 1st, 11am  Register to Attend
 
Watch September’s Luncheon- Improving Productivity During COVID-19, Click Here to View

IEC National Webinar- Motion is Money, September 29th 2-3:30pm- Contractors paying for inefficiencies that inhibit profitability, safety and quality.  Register here.
 
With Vaccine on Horizon, Push for Mandatory Shots Expected to Build
Massive resources are being poured into the development of a fast-tracked vaccine for COVID-19 as the United States enters the tail end of an unprecedented shutdown. Read more  
 
Campaign Promotes Flu Shots to Avert Dual Public Health Crisis
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores is amplifying a widespread message on multiple platforms to encourage Americans to get the flu shot to prevent additional stress on a healthcare system still strained by the pandemic. READ MORE  

 
 
Upcoming Virtual Job Fairs for IEC Members
Luncheon Meetings Returning to Georgia in October
The very popular luncheon meetings are returning across the state.  You may now  register for these free luncheons,  Sponsor slots are filled!
October 2nd – Columbus, Hilton Garden Inn – Register
October 16th – Macon, Hilton Garden Inn – Register
October 23rd – Augusta, TBonz – Register
November 6th – Savannah, Spankys – Register

 

 

AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – June 26th

,

 IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – June 26th                                     

IEC Backed SB 315 on Lien Rights Passes Senate & House
The Georgia House of Representatives passed SB 315 on Friday June 19, 2020, which will amend O.C.G.A. § 44-14-366 to clearly limit lien waivers to only impacting lien rights, and not a subcontractor’s contractual rights to payment. Having cleared both the Georgia Senate and House of Representatives, SB 315 is expected to be signed into law by Governor Kemp. A copy of SB 315 can be found here.  To read more details on our victory, clck here!
 
ATLANTA APPRENTICESHIP DEADLINE EXTENDED TO TODAY, FRIDAY, JUNE 26!  REGISTER YOUR APPRENTICE
First year classes begin July 27th!  Upperclasses start August 10th.
 
GEORGIA CHAPTER APPRENTICESHIP APPLICATION DEADLINE, JULY 10  Register Now!  Classes begin the week of August 24th.
 
PPP Revised Loan Forgiveness Application – June 17

On June 17, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Department of the Treasury released a revised Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness application, implementing the fixes from the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act enacted June 5. The agencies also released a streamlined “EZ version” of loan forgiveness application that may be used in limited circumstances. Here is a guide for PPP Loan Forgiveness

COVID-19 RAPID TESTING – FREE
If you or one of your workers comes in contact with someone that has tested positive for COVID-19, you may now immediately get tested and get results within an hour.  Use this link, and make sure you select a symptom, check no to a Dr.’s referral and scroll down on the locations until you see the rapid results, which is at Georgia Tech.  The whole process from start to finish takes about an hour.  Please note, most of the locations take two to four days for resuts.  Look for the 1 hour results location.

IEC SAFETY PROTOCOLS – WHAT TO EXPECT
We want to assure you and your employees of our commitment to keeping you safe and what to expect when entering the IEC facilities.

  1. IR Temperature taken upon every entry
  2. Waiver and release signed upon entry (only once)
  3. Hand sanitize upon every entry
  4. Use of mask STRONGLY recommended (subject to change)
  5. Six foot social distancing at all times
  6. Separate entrances for entrance and exit in all rooms
  7. Nightly sanitation of all classrooms
  8. Touchless light switches and towel dispensers installed 
As always, these protocols are subject to change as we receive more information from the CDC and directives from our Board of Directors.
 

 
 
MEMBER BENEFITS
Exclusive savings for IEC Members with Shell Fuel Program that includes fuel rebates, reporting and controls.  Learn more about the program and start saving today!
 
IEC WEBINARS…KEEP THE KNOWLEDGE COMING
COVID-19 Legal Update for IEC Contractors. View the recording

SAFETY
As states begin to open up, many businesses are questioning the proper protocols and procedures to put in place to protect their employees and the public. Milwaukee has created a COVID Resource Guide that covers tool transfer best practices, PPE protocols, collaboration protocols, and more.

INDUSTRY NEWS
Many Rebate Programs Now Offer Bonuses
CV19 is likely sparking increase in bonuses in 4 unique ways –
  1. Bonus on specific products.  Rebate programs may offer additional incentives on certain product categories to help increase participation.
  2. Bonus on certain customer categories. If there’s a specific market segment that seems to be particularly reluctant to upgrade their lighting, programs may offer a bonus for that segment. 
  3. Across the line bonus.  This bonus type gives and additional rebate for any project, regardless of the application or product.
  4. Trade ally bonus.  Some programs find it’s more effective to incentivize the person selling the lighting instead of the end user.  To receive these incentives, you typically must be a trade ally with a program.  Read the full article
WORKFORCE NEEDS

julie.gunter@iecatlantaga.org or use this form.   Don’t forget to check our list of available workers in our Dropbox – it’s updated every Wednesday! Contact Delast.Muhammad@iecatlantaga.org for login credentials.
Got a job in another state and need to network with another IEC member for workforce needs?  We’ve got you covered there as well.  Just email niel.dawson@iecatlantaga.org with your request.

Thank you for your continued support of the IEC Atlanta/Georgia Chapters!  Stay safe and have a great weekend!
Niel and the entire IEC Staff
AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – April 10th

,

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – April 10th

As we reluctantly settle into our “new normal,” It is important that we make sure we’re taking care of ourselves because if we’re not cared for, then we’re not able to care for others. This takes control, and “ultimately, the only way to truly be in control is to be in control of your thoughts.” This quote comes from James Clear who wrote the incredibly smart book, “Atomic Habits – Tiny Changes, Remarkable Habits.” (www.jamesclear.com) So what are you doing to care for yourself? Author and trainer Brent Darnell offers some great ways to care for yourself, including a free coaching session, a guided meditation and a “Tough Guy Survival Kit” to name a few – check them out here Watch for a future webinar on “Leading in Challenging Times” by Brent.

CARES Act
If you have not yet applied for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) or the SBA Disaster Loans, you should do so now! Most members have already done so, or are about to apply! 
New $600 Billion Main Street Lending Program if you do not qualify for the PPP – details  For many other resources regarding CV19, visit www.iecatlantaga.org/coronavirus

NEW CDC Safety Fliers to Download
Essential Critical Workers Dos and Don’ts
Implementing Safety Practices for Exposure

Online CEU Classes Launched
CBA – Article 110 (pre-recorded)
NEC Code Changes (coming week of April 13th)
NFPA 70e Electrical Safety (live) – April 17th, 9am – 11:30
Troubleshooting the Electrical System (live) – April 22nd, 5pm – 7pm
Universal Safety (live) – April 25th, 8am – 11:30
Incident Investigations on the Worksite (live) – April 27th, 8am – 11:30

Supply Chain Disruption Webinar
IEC hosted a supply chain webinar on Thursday which was attended by nearly 50 people. The panelists included: Tom Kobe, Legrand; Lindsey Hill, Home Depot; Jimmy Nall, Mayer and Matt Bobo, Ardd & Winter. Some of the key takeaways are outlined below:

  • PLAN AHEAD! With the availability of materials constantly changing within the supply chain, the theme was planning!
  • CV19 material production is being bumped ahead of production of other material orders
  • Some manufacturers are retooling to produce essential CV19 materials
  • Currently we are experiencing some shipping lags, especially overnight/express
  • When placing orders for CV19/essential jobs (hospitals, fire, police, etc…) be sure you tell your supplier to mark your order as “CV19 Essential”
  • Special delivery and pick-up is available at most supply houses
  • Some gear orders are now being flagged with “Could be delays”
  • Allow and plan for the unexpected!

Upcoming Webinars
Critical COVID-19 Labor Update for IEC Members – Friday, April 10th at 1pm – Register
HR Webinar coming week of April 13th – Watch for Details

PPE Shipment Arriving Soon
Several weeks ago IEC ordered a bulk shipment of N95 Masks, gloves and hand sanitizer for our membership and are due to arrive the week of April 13th. We will ship masks, gloves and hand sanitizer to any contractor member requesting these for free. Quantities will be based upon your company size. If you need to order a bulk amount, please contact Bryan Beckett at bryan@office-sensei.com 303.443.9780. You can also make your own hand sanitizer and a simple bandanna can also help in the meantime.

Employers Responsible for Filing Unemployment Claims
The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) has adopted an emergency Rule 300-2-4-0.5 Partial Claims, effective March 16, 2020. The rule mandates all Georgia employers to file partial claims online on behalf of their employees for any week during which an employee (full-time/part-time) works less than full-time due to a partial or total company shutdown caused by the COVID-19 public health emergency. Any employer found to be in violation of this rule will be required to reimburse GDOL for the full amount of unemployment insurance benefits paid to the employee.  Download the “How To”

Apprenticeship & Workforce Update
New first year apprentices should now be applying online.  First year Atlanta Classes are due to start July 27th and Georgia will be begin August 17th.
Currently, we have approximately 15 apprentices that are on lay-off status and 4-5 members both loaning and borrowing workers. Please contact julie.gunter@iecatlantaga.org with your hiring needs. We have launched an online interview program that allows you to see pre-recorded interview sessions with applicants. By letting Julie know you are hiring workers, we will send you the link.
On April 6th we held online “train the trainer” session for 23 instructors. Julie Gunter, IEC Apprenticeship Manager, conducted instructor training to help instructors understand their new role, has identified online lab resources for instructors and students to use and is currently working to find robust communication tools that improve two way discussions.
IEC CARES is a new initiative that we have launched where staff are available virtually to both answer apprentice’s questions and encourage them in their new online experience.
New Instructor Virtual Open House – Monday, April 13th, 6pm-7 – For people whom are interested in becoming an instructor for fall classes. Interested individuals are encouraged to attend – register
A&T Virtual Committee Meeting – Tuesday, April 14th, 10am – 11 – Contact Todd.hawkins@iecatlantaga.org
Work Development Virtual Meeting – Tuesday, April 14th, 1pm – 2 – Contact delast.muhammad@iecatlantaga.org

IEC Georgia Wins the “March Madness” Growth Award for the Southeast Region!
During the month of March IEC National conducted a membership growth campaign competition and IEC Georgia won the most new members in the Southeast Region. The Georgia Chapter receives $1,500 for the top prize from the IEC Foundation!

INSERT_FIRST_NAME, please let us know how we can help you – together we will make it through!

 

 

AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – April 3rd

,

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – April 3rd

By now you have probably started to settle into the “new normal,” which is changing day-by-day. Like most of you, I occasionally need to stop and ask myself “is this real?” Then go about my business, and like you, I am thankful for the electrical industry that we are fortunate to be a part of. We are also thankful for all of our members and will continue to do whatever we can to support you.  Most of you are probably being inundated with information from updates, webinars and alerts, therefore we are trying to balance what we send, and also boil down lengthy new regulations into a practical, usable format such as we’ve done below.  

Workforce Needs
Most members are currently not reporting major interruptions on jobsites other than industrial jobs. Please continue to update us if you need to layoff, loan, borrow or hire workers. Updates can be sent to me or Julie.gunter@iecatlantaga.org  We are launching an online interview platform where you can see and hear applicants answering a series of typical questions an electrical contractor would ask.

Shelter-in-Place/Essential Worker Document
With Governor Kemp’s new “shelter-in-place” executive order that goes into effect April 3rd, it is extremely important that you provide your workers with the Essential Worker Document that is posted on our website at www.iecatlantaga.org/coronavirus. We have seen a number of articles that municipalities have started, or will start to give out fines for not obeying the “shelter-in-place” executive order.   Please have all your employees keep this document with them at all times. 

Governor Issues NEW Executive Order on Plan Review & Inspections/Virtual Notary
The newly released Executive Order on March 30 allows private plan review and inspections by Qualified Private Providers (ACEC) or (AIA) on previously exempt projects in OCGA 8- 2-26-(17) which include hospitals, ambulatory health care centers, nursing homes, jails, penal institutions, airports, buildings or structures that impact national or state homeland security, or any building defined as a high-rise building in the State Minimum Standards Code. Additionally, on March 31, the Governor signed an executive order authorizing the use of realtime audio-visual communication technology to assist in notarizing real estate documents.

Apprenticeship Classes Will Continue Online Through April 30th at Minimum
We are diligently working to provide virtual labs, videos and other resources for all 700+ apprentices as they continue their classes online. Contractor members were sent a fall class schedule and billing policy for the 2020-2021 school year this week.  All new first year apprentices should apply online now.

Online CEU classes are being rolled out now, including Code by the Article and 2020 NEC Code Changes-watch for registration coming soon.

Supply Chain Webinar Next Week
We are working with a number of manufacturers and suppliers to present a webinar on the potential supply chain disruption that is more than likely coming. Some causes are evident, while others, not as clear cut. Whatever the cause, contractors must plan more than ever to have the proper materials needed for their jobs not only for today, but for the next 6 months. Watch for the announcement coming soon.

IEC American Red Cross Blood Drive Postponed
Due to a shortage of Red Cross workers, they are unable to staff the planned IEC blood drive on April 10th. However, to give blood, which is so desperately needed right now, use this link and put in your zip code to find the drive closest to you. Giving blood is exempt from “shelter-in-place” – just have your appointment confirmation printed and with you. Hey, it’s a great way to get out of the house!

SBA COVID-19 ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER Loans – Apply Here

Paycheck Protection Program
Starting April 3, 2020, small businesses and sole proprietorships can apply for and receive loans to cover their payroll and other certain expenses through SBA lenders – Overview – Application Form

INSERT_FIRST_NAME, thank you for your continue support of IEC Atlanta/Georgia. Please let us know how we can help.

Stay Well!

 

AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – March 27

,

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – March 27

We’ve made it through another week of probably many firsts for each of us!  Some may be mundane, such as not going out to eat all week, while others may have learned a completely new skill, such as hosting a Zoom webinar, which I did this week. 

The Zoom webinar that we provided on Thursday was on “Practical Industrial Hygiene in the Construction Environment Regarding COVID-19” and you can view it here. (there is a 45 second lag before the video begins). We also provided a Site-Specific Industrial Hygiene and Safety Procedures that is also on our website.

Next Wednesday, April 1st at Noon, IEC Atlanta/Georgia will provide a live webinar on “Construction Downturn Strategies” hosted by IEC Partner Member Adam Cooper from Ascent Consulting.  Watch for the invitation to be sent out soon.

Because electrical work has been deemed an essential industry we have escaped the “state-at-home” notices.  You can use the Essential Worker Template here to give to your workers if they are stopped by law enforcement for not obeying the notice.  This is also available on our website with all of our COVID-19 resources at www.iecatlantaga.org/coronavirus  IEC signed on to a letter with over 20 other construction related association that has been sent to Governor Kemp to emphasize and maintain construction as an essential service.

IEC National provided a fantastic podcast this week on “How Will COVID-19 Impact the Electrical Industry“ that I highly recommend you take the time to review.  Economist Anirban Basu notes an unusual V-shaped market reaction and steep recovery due to a Supply Shock of the market, versus a Demand Shock, as in the Great Recession.

2020 Code Changes class is currently being developed online to assure that all of our members can receive their required CEUs by June and also get the required information for the new 2020 NEC.  This will be offered FREE to all of our members!  Watch for future notices it becomes available.  The 4-hour online CEU classes that are part of the Comprehensive Code Class will be available next week.

To help all citizens in need right now, IEC will be hosting an American Red Cross Blood Drive at the IEC on Friday, April 10th from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  You may sign-up online here.  Of course, proper safety protocols will be strictly followed.

We are seeing a number members loaning workers, along with a few lay-offs, therefore it is very important that you keep IEC informed of your workforce needs by replying to this email or contacting julie.gunter@iecatlanga.org

Please continue to talk with us about how we can assist you in these challenging times – we are here for you!

Niel Dawson & the IEC Staff

AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – May 29th

,

 IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – May 29th                                           

I am super excited about the easing of restrictions (see Gov Kemp’s NEW Executive Order), and therefore IEC’s ability to start resuming our base line services, as well as introducing new services based upon current members’ needs.  We will be covering both of these in our town hall meetings below, but I wanted to outline a few of these here:
  • Safety Protocol when entering/attending any IEC sites or functions
  • Summer School for apprentices not receiving a passing grade
  • Class schedules for CEU & Apprenticeship
  • Marketing your company (NEW!)
Wire-off/Apprentice of the Year Competition, June 1st & 3rd – VIA FaceBook Live – Watch the competitors, win prizes and join in the event by following us 
 
IEC Atlanta Town Hall Meeting – June 2nd @ Noon
Register Here for this important update for all members
 
IEC Georgia Town Hall Meeting – June 4th  @ Noon
Register Here for this important update for all members
 
WORKFORCE NEEDS

Are you adjusting your workforce levels?  Let IEC help you by utilizing our Loan/Borrow Program for short-term adjustments.  We currently have quite a few members needing to borrow workers.  Or, if you need to reduce your workforce, please refer your laid-off workers to the IEC where we can help get them placed with another IEC member who is hiring.  Either email direct to julie.gunter@iecatlantaga.org or use this form.    Don’t forget to check our list of available workers in our Dropbox – it’s updated every Wednesday! Contact Delast.Muhammad@iecatlantaga.org for login credentials.
Got a job in another state and need to network with another IEC member for workforce needs?  We’ve got you covered there as well.  Just email niel.dawson@iecatlantaga.org with your request.

  • IEC is currently running a recruitment campaign for the membership and are receiving over 10 new applications a day – let us know if you’re hiring!
  • Onsite Job Fair, June 12th @ IEC Training Center – Register
  • Summer School – June 22-July 2 for Apprentices Not Passing
    IEC will hold our first summer school for Atlanta apprentices who did not pass (70 and above), but scored 61 to 69.  This 4 night session will allow apprentices to take the class and retest to bring their grade up to a 70.  This is at NO cost to contractors or apprentices, and is in consideration of classing going online effective March 16.
PPP IMPORTANT UPDATES!
5 things to know about spending your ppp money for maximum forgiveness – Read the full article
1) Salary increases, hazard pay and bonuses can be included in payroll costs
2) Loan forgiveness for payroll costs can be counted when the payroll is dispersed even if it was for the period prior to the period covered
3) Most health insurance costs can be included as payroll costs, but there are are still some grey areas (read the full article)
4) If you spend more than 25% of the loan on other approved expenses (mortgage, rent, utilities) that it must be paid back in two years at 1% interest
5) Do not use funds for unpermitted purposes, as they must be repaid.  For details, please read the full article
  • Bonuses, Hazard pay and other extra compensation allowed for employees, but not for Owners – Read the details
  • The IRS Will NOT allow for an expense that is deductible to be taken if payment the of the expense results in forgiveness of the PPP Loan – Read more
INDUSTRY NEWS
Urgent Need for Blood

The American Red Cross currently has an urgent need for blood donors of all blood types to give now.  This is the time to take care of one another, and blood donation is essential to ensuring the health of those in our community. We’re all in this together!  Find a Blood Drive close to you

Marketing Consultation
Do you need assistance in marketing your company?  IEC can assist you both with basic marketing and uping your market game plan.  IEC’s Marketing Consulting is a new member benefit that’s included with your membership.  Contact niel.dawson@iecatlantaga.org to find out more details.
Thank you for your continued support of the IEC Atlanta/Georgia Chapters!  Stay safe and have a great weekend!
Niel and the entire IEC Staff

AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – July 31st

,

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – July 31st      

During the pandemic I’ve talked with countless people about staying motivated and positive. Motivation is a powerful, yet tricky beast.  Sometimes it is really easy to get motivated, and you find yourself wrapped up in a whirlwind of excitement.  Other times, it is nearly impossible to figure out how to motivate yourself and you’re trapped in a death spiral of procrastination.  Author, James Clear, provides some best ideas and useful research on how to get and stay motivated – Read more
 
PHASE 3 COVID-19 VACCINE TRIALS START AT EMORY, GIVING ATLANTANS A POTENTIAL SHOT AT IMMUNITY
Phase I included just 45 individuals with good results.  Then Phase 2 enrolled 600 people.  Now 1,000 people will receive the trial vaccination at Emory in early August.  Emory is only one of two sites administering the trials nationwide.  Read More
 
CDC REVISES GUIDELINES TO 10 DAYS OF ISOLATION FOR MILD SYMPTOMS
The Centers for Disease Control revised its guidelines for coronavirus, saying people with mild to moderate illness only need to complete 10 days of isolation.  This is down from the previous 14 days recommended.  
  
EMPLOYEE RETENTION TAX CREDIT – $5,000 PER EMPLOYEE!
The Employee Retention Credit is a refundable tax credit against certain employment taxes equal to 50% of the qualified wages an eligible employer pays to employees after March 12, 2020 and before January 1, 2021. Eligible employers can get immediate access to the credit by reducing employment tax deposits they are otherwise required to make. Also, if the employer’s employment tax deposits are not sufficient to cover the credit, the employer may get an advance payment from the IRS. Find out how to get your credit. 
 
120 FIRST YEAR APPRENTICES START THEIR CLASSES
With excitement and anticipation in the air, new apprentices began their four year track to becoming certified electricians by the US Dept. of Labor.  All apprentices receive their initial training on study skills, how to succeed in the apprenticeship program, math refresher and useful insights from successful electricians who have gone through the program.  Comprehensive safety procedures are followed, including use of masks, hand sanitizer and social distancing.  Upper classes will start back the week of August 10th.  A September class is now forming, but space is limited!  Have your apprentices register here.   For Georgia Members register here
Students_1636542.jpg
 
 
DID YOU MISS OUR 50TH GRADUATION CELEBRATION?
78 Apprentices were turned out as Journeyperson Electricians!
We want to thank the following Partners for supporting the apprentices:
  • Harbin Agency, Overall event sponsor
  • Milwaukee– provided gloves, screw driver and goggles to all graduates and drills to the top three AOY contestants
  • Ideal – meter to the AOY winner
  • Federated Insurance – $500 to the AOY Winner
grads_1636601.jpg
 
 
Upcoming Virtual Job Fairs for IEC Members
WELCOME NEW ATLANTA CONTRACTOR MEMBER
Southern Ground Electric
Harley Hoag
 
Thank you for your continued support of the IEC Atlanta/Georgia Chapters!  Stay safe and have a great weekend!
Niel and the entire IEC Staff
AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – March 20

,

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – March 20

During this unprecedented time, IEC Atlanta/Georgia is working overtime to quickly adjust to the COVID-19 pandemic, and I would like to provide you with some updates here.  Additioanlly, I would like to thank our IEC staff that have quickly jumped into action for our members.

First, we have successfully moved all of our 715 apprentices in 45 classes to our online delivery system with little issues. We are working with instructors who are new to teaching online how to effectively teach in a virtual classroom. Online classes will occur through March 27th with the mid-term exams taking place online as scheduled the week of March 30th. The following week of April 6th will be spring break with no classes. During that week the Board of Directors and staff will assess whether classes will continue online or return to onsite classes, and we will keep both our members and apprentices apprised of the decision.

Next, we are implementing online CEU classes the week of March 23rd. These code classes will be in four-50 minute sessions, just as the norm for onsite classes. These can be purchased and viewed at any time from your office or home and are good for your required CEU state license renewal. These will feature our code instructor Terry Rogers.

We will also be implementing live webinars that will be on pertinent topics to help you through these challenging times. The first webinar will cover proper safety hygiene on the obsite and conducted by our OSHA Certified Safety Instructor, Darryl Fitch. Additional topics in the pipeline are: Supply Chain Disruption, Preparing for a Possible Recession and Are You Prepared for a Union Visit?  These will also be recorded and available on our website to be viewed at your convenience. These webinars will be in lieu of our monthly luncheon meetings until we can once again network together.

We are seeing a few lay-offs and loaning of workers, therefore it is extremely important that you keep us informed of your loaning, borrow, layoff and hiring needs so that we may assist you with your employment needs.  Please send your needs directly to Julie Gunter at julie.gunter@iecatlantaga.org

Our website has up to date information on the status of our events and training at www.iecatlantaga.org or go directly to iecatlantaga.org/coronavirus

Below are useful resources that we have gathered for your reference:

 Coronavirus Webinar Recording – Coronavirus Webinar PowerPoint 

COVID-19: Contract Defenses by Kilpatrick Townsend

CDC’s Guidance for Small Businesses

Multiple Resources

Finally, be thankful for what you have and be kind to others in need.

We thank you for your continued support and please let us know if we can help in any way.

Niel Dawson & the entire IEC staff

AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – May 1st

,

 IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – May 1st
                                                    
Sometimes we are forced into uncomfortable situations that we must adapt, and that certainly has been the case with CV19!  When faced with these situations, we always have two choices – to adapt or to stay firmly entrenched.  In our present situation, we’ve had little choice but to adapt.  And sometimes when we adapt, we realize that the new situation is not all that bad, and in fact, it may be preferred.  During this time, we’ve all had some time to reflect upon the choices we have made, and what choices we’ll make in the future based upon what we know now.  For me, I’m glad that I’ve made the choices to travel to different countries and parts of the US when I did.  I also know, that when I have the opportunity to travel again, I’ll take it.  

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
In speaking both with local and national IEC contractors, work levels still continue to hold up. There have been minor job closures, but members continue to remain on job sites. The hardest hit have been residential service contractors, and yet other contractors have seen an increase in work such as schools, health care facilities and those supporting essential services such as grocery stores and chemical plants. The biggest theme we have heard center around postponement of jobs that have been awarded, but not yet started. Please keep us informed as you run into issues – niel.dawson@iecatlantaga.org

SAFETY RESOURCES
May 7th Panel Discusion on the Latest CV19 Workplace Safety & Health Updates – Join a panel of safey experts as they share their knowledge and answer your questions – Register Now  

IEC National and the IEC Safety Committee have developed operational policy templates to address COVID-19. Thank you to Harvey Hammock for his work on these policies.

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM UPDATES
IEC Atlanta will begin a “soft” re-opening of classes to help tutor apprentices in math and test prep beginning in mid-May. Apprentices will be required to register for the tutoring sessions and strict safety protocols will be adhered to. A motor controls class will also be completed during May.
As a way to state connected to apprentices, we are now issuing a monthly newsletter to apprentices and IEC staff are available virtually at the beginning of each class and hold regularly open forum sessions for apprentices to ask questions.
Virtual labs are being rolled out every week for our instructors to use in the online apprenticeship classes – check out one of these labs now.
Fall Atlanta 1st year class application deadline is June 12th. Your apprentices should be applying online now
Fall Georgia 1st year class application deadline is July 10th. Your apprentices should be applying online now
The Board of Directors and A&T Committee are working on an INSTALLERS Training Program for workers that may not be ready for the full apprenticeship program but you would like them to get training beyond the helper status. If you are interesting on helping design this new program, please contact Todd Hawkins at todd.hawkins@iecatlantaga.org

WIRE-OFF COMPETITION TO BE HELD JUNE 1ST & 3RD
The annual wire-off competition will be held at the IEC Training Center with only competitors and judges onsite. However, the event will be held VIA Facebook Live! If you don’t follow us on Facebook, do so now! Competitors will be announced shortly.

Help Install Occupancy Sensors at IEC
Do you have workers furloughed with no work to perform? If so, IEC is upgrading our facility for greater sanitary maintenance by installing occupancy sensors in all classrooms. If you would like to donate the time of several employees, please contact Todd Hawkins at todd.hawkins@iecatlantaga.org

IEC Atlanta/Georgia’s Instructor Mike Gunter 1st to Receive Level III Certification!
We are very proud of Mike Gunter to achieve the very 1st and ONLY IEC National Level III Instructor Certification! This is a huge accomplishment and comes with many hours of work and selfless dedication on Mike’s part. Please help us congratulate Mike – mwgestimate@bellsouth.net

 

CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASSES

Last Friday nearly 50 contractors attended our live 4-hour 2020 NEC Code Changes seminar that was free to all IEC contractors as an extra value during these times! In fact, it was so popular that we have already scheduled Part 2 (Chapters 4 thru 8) for May 15th from 8am – Noon. This is good for Georgia and Alabama CEUs and will be live. Instructor, Mike Gunter. Register here

We are also now offering live Code by the Article classes beginning May 5th, 4:00pm – 8:00pm. Instructed by Terry Rogers, May 5th will be Article 310, Pt. 1 – Register Here

NFPA 70e Electrical Safety, Live – Saturday, May 9th – Register Here

May 12th will cover Article 310, Pt. 2 with Terry Rogers – Register Here

Not wanting live, but pre-recorded? We have 5 on demand course available – See them all

We anticipate returning to onsite CEU classes beginning in June based upon CDC guidance and the Board of Director’s approval.

IEC PARTNER FEDERATED INSURANCE ANNOUNCES COVID-19 CLIENT RELIEFT CREDIT
Federated’s COVID-19 Client Relief Credit will provide a 15% credit based on Business Auto premium, Auto Dealer/Garage Coverage Part premium, and Businessowners Policy (BOP) premium from March 15 to June 15. Policies must be in force at the time relief credit is applied. These actions are subject to regulatory approval.  This is another benefit of IEC membership.

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS HAVE 2ND HIGHEST SUICIDE RATE!
In this week’s IEC webinar, author Brent Darnell talked about both caring for yourself and your employees, and how you can go about it. Below are some highlights of his presentation – Click here for a detailed overview of his presentation.
1) Take care of your bodies, which means
                – Eating Healthy (cut down on sugar and carbs)
                – Exercise Regularly (20 minutes per day minimum)
                – Get 8 hours of sleep
                – Avoid alcohol and drugs
2) Manage Stress
                – Spend time with family and friends
                – Meditate or listen to calming music
                – Find a hobby or other enjoyable activity
                – Spend time in nature – walk, run, garden, camp
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 800-273-8255

WORKFORCE NEEDS
IEC will hold virtual job fairs in Augusta, Savannah and Columbus beginning in May. Contractors may register for the job fairs here – Augusta, May 12 – Columbus, May 14 – Savannah, May 14
We have approximately 12 apprentices currently available for hire. Please continue to let us know your hiring needs, as well as loan/borrow requests – julie.gunter@iecatlantaga.org
We continue to have new apprentices apply for the apprenticeship program daily. If you are hiring, please contact Julie. Last week we had 4 members hire 5 new apprentices. And beginning in May, we our launching our newest recruitment campaign for new apprentices – POWERMYJOB.COM

OFFICE RE-OPENING PLAN
With the Shelter-In-Place order being lifted April 30th, many offices will now begin to reopen, but you need to have a plan in place. To help guide you through this process, IEC Partner Member Townsend and Kilpatrick have prepared an excellent checklist that the IEC is now utilizing.

UPCOMING DATES
July 10th – IEC Apprenticeship Graduation, Marriott Stone Mountain – Register
IEC National Awards Submission – Submission Deadline, July 15th
IEC Natiional Convention – New Orleans – October 26-30 

We still have a limited quantity of N95 masks available for our contractor members, but if you need to order any type of masks or hand sanitizer, contact IEC Partner Member Better Safe Now and be sure to use IEC discount code 4FAM to get your 15% discount. Or call William Kim at 678-608-2754.

Please stay safe,

 

 

 

AdobeStock_coronavirus

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – September 11th

,

IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – September 11th

“It costs nothing to ask a successful person how they succeeded, but it may deliver more value than 1,000 hours of hard work.
Others are under no obligation to tell you their secrets, but it is surprising how much you can learn from sincere, direct, and thoughtful questions.”

Five Ways to Stay Profitable During Tough Economic Times– Some of the most successful companies were forgedin difficult times.  What makes a business tough enough to start or – better yet- survivie the ups and downs… More info
 
October Luncheon is scheduled for October 13th.  Register to attend.

Professional Electrician Program (PEP) Starts October 13th and 14th.  Register your experienced workers now. Apprenticeship Application
 
Watch September’s Luncheon- Improving Productivity During COVID-19, Click Here to View

IEC National Webinar- Motion is Money, September 29th 2-3:30pm- Contractors paying for inefficiencies that inhibit profitability, safety and quality.  Register here.
 
COVID-19 Testing in Georgia-  See list of locations.
 
CORE- Community Organized Relief Effort- FREE COVID-19 Testing
Free COVID-19 testing in select locations throughout Georgia.  Locations for mobile sites change weekly.  Click here.
 
 
Enhancing Productivity by Adopting New Products
Keep up with the latest products that will save you time and money on the job site.  Some of these included pre-wired raceway, basket tray, evolution floor boxes, plug tail and Ezefab.  Let Legrand show you how to improve your job site productivity and increase your bottom line in this free webinar. Free Webinar Tuesday September 15, 2020.  Register
 
Upcoming Virtual Job Fairs for IEC Members
Luncheon Meetings Returning to Georgia in October
The very popular luncheon meetings are returning across the state.  You may now  register for these free luncheons,  Sponsor slots are filled!
October 2nd – Columbus, Hilton Garden Inn – Register/Sponsor
October 16th – Macon, Hilton Garden Inn – Register/Sponsor
October 23rd – Augusta, TBonz – Register/Sponsor
November 6th – Savannah, Spankys – Register/Sponsor
 
Thank you for your continued support of the IEC Atlanta/Georgia Chapters!  Stay safe and have a great weekend!
Niel and the entire IEC Staff

Load More

en_USEnglish
es_ESSpanish en_USEnglish