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Apprenticeship Program Top Performers Honored

Apprenticeship Program Top Performers Honored

IEC Atlanta Chapter celebrated their apprentices that have performed above and beyond this academic school year.  Awards were distributed throughout the week of August 10th awarding students for their academic performance and those achieving perfect attendance.  21 Academic Achievement Awards and 60 Perfect Attendance Awards were given.  These students have exhibited professionalism and dedication for their craft.

Those receiving an academic award have maintained an A average during the academic school year.  This says a lot because these students work extremely hard at both their positions with their contractors and their school assignments.  Those receiving perfect attendance is an excellent feat with all the challenges working against the community, these students are always engage in the program and ready to learn when scheduled.

 Listed are our current award winners.  Keep up the great work!


Academic Achievement Award

Travis Adams

Camden Drouault

Timothy Martin

Amevi  Amedaho

Tomas Feliz Rodriguez

Brett Massey

William Cannon

Juan Fernandez

Jacob Nalley

John Dickerson II

Jack Fontana

Russell Pate

Donald Dockery

Juan Gomez

James Pate

Christopher Donegan

Rafael Marcano

Romuald Pinheiro

Travis Adams

Camden Drouault

Adam Tylkowski

Amevi  Amedaho

Michael Marine

Theodore Whitaker

 

Perfect Attendance Award

Danny Clark

Tyler Maresca

Courtney Banks

Chad Davis

Destin Promiscuo

Gilmar Mejia

Mark Kolber

Russell Pate

Bradley Hammond

Eugene Lemonds

Omar Carbajal

Juan Rivera-Balbuena

Theodore Whitaker

Ryan Nordlund

Juan Fernandez

Zachary D’Souza

Christiaan Boll

Christopher Jackson

John Bratcher

Rafael Marcano

Jesus Corro-Garcia

Ian Buchanan

Brayden Digsby

Daniel Corbett

Raul Quintero Toral

Taylor Mazarky

Derrell Mccollough

Justino Zavala

Justin Eldridge

Christopher Donegan

Autum Leitsinger

Jacob Nalley

Kenneth Harris

Jason Bell

Trent Milton

William Cannon

Alicja Gazur

Andrew Freel

Rodrigue Murad

Edward Ramirez Del Razo

Chase Rhodes

Matthew Akers

Joshua Weems

Desmond Herring

Lucas George

Selvin Guzman

James Williams

William Little

Travis Adams

Navid Heshmat

Garrett Bitts

Jordan Hoang

Ara Major

Virgilio Mendoza

Tomas Feliz Rodriguez

Cody Oliver

Jamail Biscaino

Sean Duyvejonck

Collin Burnette

Elijah Salim

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US Senator Kelly Loeffler Kicks Off IEC Atlanta’s Luncheon Meetings

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US Senator Kelly Loeffler Kicks Off IEC Atlanta’s Luncheon Meetings

IEC Atlanta Chapter held its monthly luncheon meeting August 11th after months of meeting virtually.  The guest speaker was United State Senator, Kelly Loeffler.  Senator Loeffler has represented the Georgia Senate office since January 2020, serving alongside Senator David Perdue.

Senator Loeffler was greeted by Executive Director, Niel Dawson, IEC Atlanta Board President, Bob Harmon of Harmon Electric and Associate Executive Director Todd Hawkins for a tour of IEC’s 10,000 square foot training facility.   Senator Loeffler received a first- hand view of IEC’s detailed lab set up, designed to give its apprentices hands-on training.  Mr. Dawson elaborated on the training model and its benefits of keeping apprentices employed and tuition structures that allow IEC students to graduate without incurring any debt. 

From touring the building, Senator Loeffler went on to address 30 business owners and managers.  IEC Contractors members came out to show their support and to hear the Senator speak on the concerns that affect the industry, their business and how the Senator supports the merit shop contractor.

IEC is honored to have a current United States Senator as a guest speaker for its monthly luncheon meeting.  IEC strives to give its members access to resources to operate their organizations at their highest potential.  A conversation with the Senator as we move through these uncertain times is one of the many resources IEC continues to provide its members.  

See pictures below…

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IEC Atlanta/GA 50th Apprenticeship Graduation Mission Accomplished

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IEC Atlanta/Georgia 50th Apprenticeship Graduation…Mission Accomplished


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

IEC did it!  IEC Atlanta / Georgia Chapter gave its graduates a grand night to remember.  IEC celebrated the accomplishments of 78 graduates.  Family members, contractors, graduates and guests were brought together and kept apart at the Evergreen Marriott hotel in Stone Mountain, Georgia.  A fabulous night of social distancing and celebration!  How does that happen with 200 guests you ask?  With 2 separate ballrooms, a digital thermometer, masks , space and a master plan.  It was a challenge, but IEC’s Executive Director and staff saw it through to make certain the Class of 2020 received a proper send off.

The event started at 6:00pm with a welcome form the Evergreen ballroom, from IEC’s Atlanta Board President, Bob Harmon of Harmon Electric while simultaneously IEC Executive Director Niel Dawson delivered his welcome in the Stone Mountain room.  This event was also livestreamed on IEC Atlanta/Georgia’s YouTube channel for those friends and family members who were unable to attend. Since this is the 50th annual graduation, additional guest speakers were brought in to make it extra special.  Graduates received heartwarming messages from keynote speaker Ms. Candy Branhm, CEO if Branhm Electric, Inc. and IEC National Board President,  Bill Bledsoe, CEO of Wisco Pen Electric, and Betsy Rich-Reed, President of Ritch Electric.  Each room enjoyed dinner, entertainment by keyboard and vocalist Gwen Hughes and awarding the top performing graduates during their time with IEC.

Awards given throughout the evening are as follows;

  • Perfect attendance – Edgar Davila of MG Electric and Justin Schader of Henderson Electric
  • 2020 Community Spirit Award – Edgar Davila of MG Electric
  • Extra Mile Award- Mr. Nytwan Fitch, 1st, 3rd, 4th year and PEP Instructor
  • Mike Gunter Achievement Award- 1st and 2nd year instructor Keith Haskell of Sole Source Electrical Contractors

Congratulations to the 2020 IEC award winners.  IEC is so very proud of them all.

The winner of the IEC Atlanta Chapter Apprentice of the Year Award was also announced during this spectacular night.  A special congratulation to Mr. Bentley Butler on winning IEC’s title of Apprentice of the Year!  Mr. Butler will represent us nationally in the Apprentice of the Year competition taking place in New Orleans, Louisiana.  Thank you to Federated Insurance and Milwaukee Tool for sponsoring the Apprentice of the Year Contest!

Thank you to everyone that came out to join the celebration and those of you that supported the graduates via YouTube livestreaming.  IEC appreciates the support!  Thank you to all the IEC graduates and congratulations on this wonderful accomplishment.  IEC is proud to celebrate you!

Take a moment to view pictures from this event here.  We look forward to next year’s celebration!

 

See pictures below…

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IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – December 11th

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IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – December 11th

2020 Year In Review

2020ReviewEdt_1769878.jpgAs we all reflect back on 2020, there are a multitude of adjectives that we could, and have used to describe this year. These range from challenging (my personal favorite), exhausting, stressful, taxing, gross, stifling, profitable, and so on.

However, here at the IEC, what comes to my mind is thankfulness! I am thankful for our steadfast members – 196 contractors (142 ATL/54 GA), which is up 2% from a year ago, and 102 partners (76 ATL/26 GA). And in spite of this challenging year, I am thankful that we held 15 luncheon meetings throughout Georgia with over 300 attendees….More info. 

VOTE!
 

Excel Electrical Technologies is IEC Atlanta’s 2020 Contractor of the Year
ContractorOfYear_1770701.jpgIEC Atlanta Chapter congratulates Darren Lodge of Excel Electrical Technologies on being awarded 2020 Contractor of the Year.

Excel Electrical has been a part of the IEC family for 30 years and contributes to the IEC in numerous ways.  To be awarded the position of 2020 Contractor of the Year, Excel Electrical has supported the apprenticeship program with their workers, sponsored events and has been involved in IEC functions on multiple levels.  Even during changing times Excel was right with us participating on one of our Zoom discussions and spearheading the development of the new Installer program.  IEC is honored to award Excel Electrical Technologies the 2020 IEC Contractor of the Year.

2021 IEC Atlanta Board of Directors Sworn In
2021Board_1769890.JPGIEC Atlanta chapter swore in the 2021 Board of Directors at IEC’s annual Christmas Party on December 4th at Maggiano’s Little Italy at Cumberland.  Previous Past President, Tom LeMay of Metropower was present to usher in the new board who are anxious to step into 2021 with a positive outlook.
IEC’s 2021 Board of Directors consists of the following;
  • Steve Askea, President, Ask-Kay Electrical Contractors
  • Darren Lodge, Vice-President, Excel Electrical Technologies
  • Nick Young, Sec./ Treasurer,  Putzel Electrical Contractors
  • Chris Caiaccio, VP of Partners, Kilpatrick Townsend
  • Bob Harmon, Past President, Harmon Electric
  • Greg Holloway, EC Services, Inc.
  • John Waldrop, Titan Electric of Georgia, LLC.
  • Jerry Wartko, Capital City Electric
  • Tom Young, Penco Electrical Contractors, Inc.

 Thank you to outgoing board members Chad Brooks and Tom LeMay for serving IEC well in 2020.

2020 IEC Atlanta Christmas Party and Awards
ChristmasTree_1769896.jpgIEC Atlanta /Georgia Chapters celebrated and awarded members and guests with accolades and prizes while bringing the 2020 year to a close.  It was hosted at Maggiano’s Little Italy at Cumberland on December 4th.  This event normally caters to around 200 guests but was whittled to a ballroom of around 90 attendees due to COVID guidelines.  The smaller group did not damper the fun and festivities IEC’s annual Christmas Party always offers.

A delicious lunch was served while guests enjoyed an open bar, entertainment from comedian Sean Reynolds and raffle prizes delivered to some lucky attendees, throughout the afternoon!  IEC Atlanta’s Chapter Board President, Bob Harmon gave a welcome and jumped right to the acknowledgement of the contractors receiving membership awards.

Thank you to those members diligent within our association;

The 2021 Resource Directory Has Gone to Print
You should expect your 2021 directory around the 2nd week of January!

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

New Installer Course Prepares New Workers to Thrive in the Electrical Industry
InstallerPicture_1769979.jpegIEC Atlanta/GA chapter is offering a new Installer Course in February 2021.  This course is designed to prepare new workers with the basic skills to grow and succeed in the electrical field.  They learn hand and power tool usage, accuracy in measuring, identify work materials and more.  Students will be able to perform jobs with confidence and increase their productivity.  It helps new workers become ready for the jobsite and to perform the duties needed efficiently. 

When workers complete this course they earn an IEC recognized training certificate and an OSHA 10 card.  IEC believes in training and preparing workers to be the most skilled in the field.  With the challenge of workforce shortage, this helps to prepare and grow the new worker onsite.  For those hoping to enter the electrical field without experience, this will help to get them on the contractor’s radar. 

This course is $295 for Non-Member, $265 for Members and meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from February 2nd to the 25th, 5pm to 9pm.  Attend in person at the Atlanta Training Location at 4500 Winters Chapel Rd. Atlanta, GA.  Register Now!

 
Private Interview Sessions

Private recruitment opportunities are available if your organization prefers recruitment focused on your company’s needs.  Delast Muhammad organizes interviews just for the positions needed.  Reach out to her at delast.muhammad@iecatlantaga.org to schedule your sessions.

Recruitment is at the top of the list for IEC contractors.  IEC works for you to assist with the resources needed.  More career fairs are scheduled for 2021.  The schedule will be coming out soon!

 
Columbus 1st Year Apprenticeship Start January 21st
If you have workers needing training in the Columbus, GA area, you have until December 22nd to have them registered.   Have your workers complete the application online today!  Apprenticeship Application                 
 
IEC BENEFITS
 
SAFETY
Webinar: OSHA and the New Administration – Employers are anxious to know what plans the Biden administration has for the agency in 2021 and beyond. Who will lead OSHA? Will the agency revise or implement new COVID-19 requirements? Join Ogletree Deakins on December 10 at 2 p.m. EDT for a glimpse into the future of OSHA. Register now. 
 
 
Toolbox Talks-  Electrical Safety
 
INDUSTRY
Tell Congress to Act on PPP Legislation Immediately!
Only a few short days remain before the end of the year and the end of the 116th Congress. IEC is asking you to help once more by asking Congress and the Trump administration to come to an agreement and pass long overdue COVID-19 relief legislation. Contact your members of Congress and urge them to pass a bill that includes the following:
  •     Second Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Draw
  •     Simplified PPP Loan Forgiveness
  •     Full Tax Deductibility for PPP Loans
  •     Liability Protection Against Unwarranted Lawsuits
  •     Non-Profit Eligibility for PPP Funds
 
Make Your Voice Heard Today!
 
SBA to Release PPP Loan Information
For those IEC members who took out loans through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) earlier this year, the Small Business Administration (SBA) will release the identities of those that borrowed $150,000 or less as of November 24, 2020. The release of this information will take place today and is in response to a court order.
 
The SBA will release the names, addresses and precise loan amounts of all individuals and entities that obtained COVID-19-related loans under the PPP and the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). The Washington Post, The New York Times, and the Center for Public Integrity sued the SBA after the agency initially denied their Freedom of Information Act requests. 

 

 
 

 

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2020 Fishing Tournament

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2020 Fishing Tournament


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

– On Saturday March 21st, IEC/ABC co-hosted it’s annual fishing tournament at Lawrence Shoals Recreation area on Lake Oconee.  With over $3,000 in cash prizes, 27 boats took to the lake for a fun day of fishing. 

Congratulations to 1st place winners James Slaters and Brian Boree of Reinicke Athens with a 18.5 lbs catch.  2nd place went to Taylor Nielson and Ashton Slacks of Ardd & Winters with a catch of 14.95 lbs.  Joey Miller and Brady Whitehead of Atlantic came in 3rd place with a 14.18 lbs catch and 4th place winners Rene Leon and Zach Hall of Ardd & Winters with a 13.49 lbs catch.  Big Fish winners were Father/Son team Jeff and Samuel Davis of Ozburn with a bass weighing in at 9.10lbs!  Great job guys!

This event was sponsored by:

Platinum Level – Titan Electric of Georgia

Gold Level – Esse-Energy Sytems Southeast & Lighting Associates, Inc.

Silver Level – Mayer Supply & Smart Lighting Solutions

Supportive Level – ABB Installation Products, Atlantic Workforce, Commercial Truck & Van Equipment, Duvall Agency, Electrical Supplies Unlimited, Elliott Electric Supply, Federated Insurance, Harbin Agency, Lade-Danlar, Legrand, Lighting Associates, SelecSource Tradesmen Solutions, Smart Lighting Solutions & World Supply

Thanks to everyone who came out to enjoy the prizes and this event. 

See pictures below…

Contractors Head to the State Capitol

Contractors Head to Georgia State Capitol

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Contractors Head to Georgia State Capitol


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

On February 18th, IEC Atlanta / GA Chapters attended Contractors Day at the state Capitol.  Legislators encountered the presence of the electrical industry today and heard the concerns close to industry business. 

This event was free and offered a complementary lunch and the ear of legislators. 

IEC co-sponsored this event because it is important that our members are heard.  Thank you to all that attended this opportunity to bring voices to the industry.   This is the time to connect and let legislators know contractor concerns matter!

See pictures below…

Talent Acquisition - Recruitment Concept

Recruitment Adjustments to Help Meet Contractor Needs

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Recruitment Adjustments to Help Meet Contractor Workforce Needs

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

IEC has a new strategy for recruiting workers that moves away from quantity to pre-qualified workers.  The goal is a candidate that is motivated, dependable, ready to learn and ready to work. 

On the path to accomplish this, one source for workers is to work with the US Department of Veteran Affairs.  According to VA representative Bartholomew Huff, there are 25 to 30 veterans weekly looking for employment.  This is a great opportunity to help a veteran and gain a good worker because Veterans generally are considered to be dependable with a high work ethic.  Hiring a veteran also can come with tax credits up to $9,600 over a year and assistance by subsidizing salary to help maintain a competitive salary for veterans in a competitive market.  For a statewide list of veterans offices click here or contact delast.muhammad@iecatlantaga.org.

Another Veteran related program is VECTR, (GA Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center) currently in Warner Robbins, GA.  This program is an electrical pre-apprentice program for active duty military personnel, which prepares them to begin a career in the electrical industry.  Again you find dedicated workers being processed through a channel that prepares and feeds candidates into the electrical industry.  To find a graduate of this program contact Cole Ross at 478-218-3914.

Also IEC is implementing its New Worker Training Program as another step for applicants interested in working with an IEC Contractor.  Applicants learn tool and material safety, tool use and everything needed to hit the ground running on day one of their new job.  This program is for applicants, as well as IEC contractor’s employees that would like to prep more before allowing them to enter the field unprepared.  IEC can send a trainer to the contractor’s site, have new workers attend at our training facility, or contractors can subscribe to the module and train their own workers onsite.  The first of graduates from this program will be at IEC’s March 5th job fair.  Contact Delast.Muhammad@iecatlantaga.org to RSVP.

IEC continues to work with CEFGA, (the Construction Education Foundation of Georgia) and other vetted agencies to recruit quality workers.  CEFGA has the Construction Ready Program which is a “four-week boot camp style training program designed for residents of metro Atlanta.”  Construction Ready has helped train and place over 1,000 graduates into full-time construction careers.  Candidates pursuing the electrical field coming from Construction Ready can become valuable employees.

The key here is that there is no one way to find the best worker, there are many paths to take as IEC takes on this task.  IEC does so with these goals in mind, providing the resources to help IEC contractors meet their needs and exceed their business objectives.   IEC will continue to seek out and offer candidates from pre-qualified worker programs, as these programs are just the start.  Contact Delast.Muhammad@iecatlantaga.org for any assistance.

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Things You Need To Know

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Things You Need to Know!
By: Niel Dawson, IEC Atlanta / GA Executive Director

2020 is off to a great start at the Atlanta, IEC State and National levels!  Having just come back from the National Business Summit, I wanted to share a few important things that I learned that are of value.

First, the US House passed the PRO-Act (Protecting Right to Organize Act), which has just about everything the union wants to more easily organize independent companies.  This went very closely along party lines and currently has no chance of passing the Senate, however, if the Democrats were to win the Senate and keep the House, along with winning the White House, then the PRO-Act would certainly pass.  This is why it is important to get involved at the National level and why you should consider attending the National Legislative Conference in DC on April 28-30 (IECI.org to register)

I also learned that the 529 Savings Plans that many parents use to save for their kid’s education can now be used for IEC’s Apprenticeship Program books and tuition.  This is a great selling points to parents when talking with them about their children’s education, and also gives more validity to our apprenticeship program.

The Secretary of Labor, Eugene Scalia, addressed the attendees at the conference and IEC Atlanta was the only chapter that he mentioned in his speech for our work with the local community and Goodwill Industries.  He also went on to provide very significant numbers regarding President Trump’s initiative regarding government regulations.  For every one new regulations, the Federal government has implemented they have eliminated seven, thus making it easier for small business to conduct business.

Serving on the National IEC Membership Committee, we were provided with the growth of IEC chapters over the last four years and I’m very proud to report that out of 52 chapters, Atlanta was number 4 with 46% growth and Georgia was 11th at 36% growth!  The national average growth of members by chapter was 13%, with a high of 100% and a low of -33%.

I’m also very proud of our member’s involvement at the National level and their service to our industry.

National Regional Board Member
Kristen Williams, Penco

Government Affairs Committee
Ralph Ireland, Ireland Electric
Niel Dawson, IEC Atlanta/Georgia

Emerging Leader Committee
Kristen William, Penco

Industry Recognition/Workforce Development
Todd Hawkins, IEC Atlanta/Georgia

Apprenticeship & Training Committee
Mike Gunter, IEC Atlanta/Georgia

Codes & Standards
Bruce Bowman, Fox Systems

President’s Advisory Council
Niel Dawson, IEC Atlanta/Georgia

IEC Foundation
Kristen Williams, Penco

Membership Committee
Niel Dawson, IEC Atlanta/Georgia

Professional Development
Todd Hawkins, IEC Atlanta/Georgia

 

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IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – February 5th

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IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – February 5th

Click here to find and schedule a vaccine.  Many other questions about COVID-19 and the vaccination can also be found here.

2021 Atlanta Wage Survey Results are In!  Click here to access in our resource drop box.  Located in IEC- Delast Muhammad- Contractor- IEC Forms
 
Installer Program is in Progress
Class is in session!  Take a look at IEC’s first installer program class.  Participants are excited about the potential this class gives their new career.  If you didn’t make this class, you can get in on the next session starting March 1st.  Register your worker today.  
 
Welcome New Members

Tom Jackson and Associates LLC. dba Tom Jackson Electric
Thomas Jackson
2314 Ruby Drive
Augusta, GA 30906
706-825-5773
tomas.jackson@gmail.com
www.tjellc.net
www.augustaLed.com
Member Since:2/01/2021  Augusta
 
Customer 1st Communications
Oliver Leblanc/ David Parker
5555 Oakbrook Parkway Bldg 100 Suite 175
Norcross, GA 30093
770-447-5000
fax 770-447-5001
oleblanc@cic.net
dparker@cic.net
www.cic.net
Member Since:2/2/2021   Atlanta
Hubbell Wiring Devices Offers IEC Apprentice Training
JohnFlynn_1813741.jpgJohn Flynn of Hubbell HubbellClass_1813745.jpg
By: Todd Hawkins, Assc. Executive Director of Workforce Development
John Flynn with Hubbell Wiring Devices provided exceptional training to
IEC apprentices helping them understand floor box capacity, installation methods and leading a discussion on the challenges and solutions for proper installation.  In addition, he spent time reinforcing the need to use and follow the NEC when making installations.
IEC Members and Apprentices appreciate the information John shares with our students each year.

IEC Contractor, Wiring Solutions Awarded Small Diverse Program Membership
Congratulations to IEC Contractor Member, Wiring Solutions on receiving one of this year’s Small Diverse Business program memberships.  Wiring Solutions is one of eight recipients that will have the opportunity to take full advantage of a one-year membership to the Georgia Chamber of Commerce.  This program enables Wiring Solutions to obtain access to affordable healthcare benefits, return to work training programs, local and statewide events and information through a state level advocacy and engagement organization.  Read more.

Infinity Building Solutions Custom Boxes
IEC member, Infinity Building Solutions is pleased to announce that we are a UL 508A certified panel shop! In addition to our high quality electrical  and automation control panels, we provide certification of Industrial Control Panels to UL 508A, the Standard for Industrial Control Panels. More info.  
Contact Tyson Baker at 770-291-8995 extension 700
www.infinitybuilding.solutions
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Virtual Career Fairs 
VirtualFeb2021_1801533.jpg

IEC Contractors can interview candidates from your laptop with a series of virtual interview sessions.  IEC’s Workforce Development Coordinator is organizing and preparing candidates for your needed workforce.  Log in and interview!  Choose your location.

 


Macon– February 11th, 11am – 12:30pm  Register here.

Augusta– February 18th, 11am – 12:30pm  Register here.

Columbus– March 4th, 11am – 12:30pm  Register here.

Savannah– March 11th, 11am – 12:30pm Register here.

Private Interview Sessions
Private recruitment opportunities are available if your organization prefers recruitment focused on your company’s needs.  Delast Muhammad organizes interviews just for the positions needed.  Delast has also organized mock interviews and resume building workshops to better prepare candidates to meet with contractors.   Reach out to her at delast.muhammad@iecatlantaga.org to schedule your interview sessions.

PEP( Professional Electrician’s Program )  Begins in March
If you have electrical workers with experience and would like to receive professional training, PEP’s 2 year program is perfect for them.  Not sure how PEP can work for workers and contractors, click here for more information.  Workers can complete application online to begin.  Register now to be ready for class March 2nd and 3rd.

 
IEC BENEFITS

SAFETY
OSHA Issues ‘Stronger’ Workplace Guidance on COVID-19n January 29, 2021, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published new guidance on mitigating and preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. In a press release announcing the new guidance, OSHA declared that the new guidance is “stronger worker safety guidance” intended to inform employers outside of the healthcare industry about how to identify the risks of exposure to COVID-19 and determine the appropriate control measures for their respective workplaces.  More info.
 
Toolbox Talks- Vehicle Maintenance
 
 
IEC Government Affairs
PRO Act
This afternoon, Democrats introduced the Protecting Right to Organize Act in both the House and Senate. You can read the press release titled “Top Democrats Introduce Bill to Protect Workers’ Right to Organize and Make our Economy Work for Everyone” by clicking here.

Leading the effort in the House is Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA), chair of the Education and Labor Committee. In the Senate, the effort is led by Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), the new chair of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY). The vast majority of the Democrat caucus is signed on as original cosponsors. The bill also has two Republican cosponsors, Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA) and Chris Smith (NJ). Both have historically supported pro-union policies. The Senate bill currently has 40 of its 50 members as cosponsors.

IEC continues to be actively engaged with the employer community through the Coalition for a Democratic Workplace in lobbying against this attempt to radically rewrite of our nation’s labor laws.

 
House Democrats Introduce Apprenticeship Legislation
The Committee on Education and Labor yesterday announced the introduction of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2021 and appears to be skipping the committee process altogether. Building off similar legislation that passed the House last year, H.R. 447 includes the same provisions that caused IEC to oppose it. The bill once again includes language that prevents merit shop contractors from accessing certain grant funding and codifying the ratio exemption for unions. Contact your representative today and tell them to oppose H.R. 447.
 
INDUSTRY
Sesco Lighting Continues Acquisition Surge with ESA Merger
SESCO Lighting, Inc., headquartered in Maitland, FL and Electrical Sales Associates (ESA), headquartered in Nashville, TN have announced a strategic agreement effective February 1, 2021. With 90+ years in business between the two companies as well as a hunger for growth, SESCO Lighting and ESA coming together allows them to leverage their collective strengths along with significant territory alignment. Together, the two companies will be able to offer a stronger presence at electrical distribution in combining sales efforts with enhanced product offerings. More info.
 
 
IEC Foundation Raffle
Grand Prize: Maxis MXB2000 2IN. Bender
Two winning tickets will be drawn Monday, March 1,2021.  Purchase tickets online here.
 
Business Forum Webcast with John C. Maxwell, Wednesday, February 10  12:00 – 12:40pm EST  Register here.
 
 
New IEC Diamond Member, Acuity, Offers Valuable Training
Webinar –February 9th @ 2PM EST Wireless is More 2.0
Wireless technology is gaining popularity in building controls.  In the backdrop of changing design trends and tightening building codes, it is important to: understand the fundamentals of wireless technology, explore the potential risks of promoting wireless, and reconcile the reward of wireless control benefits.  In this webinar, you will learn the important qualifiers of a robust wireless controls solution that will ensure a successful installation. Register here.  
 
Interested in wireless controls?  It seems like everything in our lives nowadays is wireless – or heading that way. In this episode, Mark Lane and Dennis Hoskins discuss wireless controls for lighting fixtures.  View video here.

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