Chicago buzzed with energy as over 4,000 electrical contractors gathered for what proved to be one of the most forward-thinking National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Conventions yet. From the opening general session to the packed exhibition floor, the event showcased an industry eager to embrace technology, tackle workforce challenges head-on, and build a more sustainable future.

The conversations throughout the convention revealed an industry at an exciting inflection point. Electrical contractors aren't just adapting to change—they're embracing it, with unprecedented enthusiasm for emerging technologies and innovative approaches to longstanding challenges. Three key themes dominated discussions: artificial intelligence adoption, creative solutions to the labor shortage, and a renewed focus on workforce mental health and well-being.

AI Enthusiasm Signals Industry Transformation

One of the most striking themes throughout the convention was the electrical industry's genuine excitement about artificial intelligence. An AI-focused session drew the highest attendance of the day, with 71% of attendees expressing excitement about AI adoption, compared to just 12% feeling confused and 8% expressing concern.

This enthusiasm extends beyond curiosity—many contractors are already experimenting with AI tools in their daily operations, primarily through platforms like ChatGPT and Procore. However, there's a clear hunger for more practical, industry-specific applications that can drive real business outcomes.

Addressing the Labor Shortage Through Technology and Culture

The skilled labor shortage dominated many conversations, with contractors seeking solutions rather than simply acknowledging the problem. Procore's session on "Solving the Skilled Labor Shortage with Technology and Culture" drew significant interest as it outlined how innovation and a shift in leadership styles can address workforce challenges while preserving decades of hard-earned expertise.

The session explored how AI, AR, robotics, and automation are not just driving productivity and boosting profit margins, but also creating exciting new career paths that can attract younger talent while allowing experienced professionals to extend their careers without the physical toll.

Nicholas Tilford, who works on workforce development initiatives at Procore, observed important trends in apprenticeship programs: "Training efforts are evolving—contractors recognize that one single day of in-person training equals three days off-site. They're figuring out how to bring training into the field while increasing the quality of education they provide in their centers."

The industry is also taking a more holistic approach to workforce development, with NECA chapters setting ambitious goals like having 75% of journeymen back in school or learning programs within five years, supported by up to 10 credit hours annually.

A Focus on Mental Health and Well-Being

Perhaps one of the most important conversations happening at the convention centered on mental health awareness. With construction having one of the highest suicide rates of any other industry, electrical contractors are taking proactive steps to support their workforce.

Tilford noted the emphasis on mental health support throughout apprentice and student events: "There's firm grounding in mental health support and dialogs with the message that 'it's okay to not be okay.' The 988 hotline was mentioned several times during apprentice and student events."

This focus on well-being extends beyond crisis intervention to proactive leadership development, fiscal education, and early career planning—all designed to create a more supportive industry culture that attracts and retains talent.

United Leadership: IBEW and NECA Collaboration

One of the most encouraging aspects of the convention was witnessing the collaborative spirit between industry leadership. Kenneth Cooper, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) International President, and David Long, CEO of NECA, demonstrated a unified approach to addressing the electrical industry's most pressing challenges. Their joint commitment to working together on workforce development, safety initiatives, and technology adoption showcased the power of partnership in driving meaningful industry-wide change.

This collaboration between labor and contractor organizations represents a strategic approach to building a stronger electrical contracting ecosystem. By aligning on shared priorities—from apprenticeship programs to mental health initiatives—these leaders are creating a foundation for sustainable growth that benefits contractors, workers, and the industry as a whole.

Technology as the Great Enabler

The overarching theme throughout the convention was technology's role as an enabler rather than a disruptor. Contractors are increasingly viewing technological advancement as essential for:

  • Preserving expertise: Capturing decades of knowledge from retiring professionals and making it accessible to the next generation

  • Extending careers: Reducing physical demands while maintaining productivity and engagement

  • Attracting talent: Creating exciting, tech-forward roles that appeal to younger workers

  • Improving safety: Leveraging data and automation to create safer work environments

  • Boosting productivity: Managing resources with greater efficiency and ease

  • Improving profitability: Effectively tracking plan vs progress to improve projections

Industry Partnership in Action

Throughout the convention, the power of strategic partnerships became evident. As Brian Calcagno, Industry Partnerships Manager at Procore, observed: "The convention highlighted the growing need for industry partners like Procore. NECA and its members are increasingly partnering with us to help them solve problems and improve the industry."

As a NECA Premier Partner, Procore's presence—from the opening general session to sponsoring the Apprentice Competition—demonstrates how technology partners can support crucial areas like workforce development, training, education, and technology adoption. Innovation Recognized: Baker Electric's Award-Winning Achievement

Among the many success stories celebrated at the convention, Baker Electric from the San Diego Chapter NECA took home the prestigious Energy Solutions/Green Buildings award for projects over $1 million for their exceptional work on the Intuit Dome. This recognition highlights not just their technical expertise, but their commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions and leveraging cutting-edge technology in large-scale projects.

Baker Electric's achievement represents the kind of innovation that's becoming the new standard in electrical contracting—where technology meets sustainability to deliver extraordinary results. Their success story demonstrates how forward-thinking contractors are positioning themselves at the forefront of the industry's evolution.

Looking Ahead: Building Tomorrow's Electrical Industry

The energy at this year's NECA Convention was unmistakably optimistic. Electrical contractors are not just adapting to change—they're driving it. From renewable energy projects like Baker Electric's award-winning Intuit Dome work to AI adoption that's outpacing many other industries, electrical contractors are positioning themselves as technology leaders.

The combination of innovative thinking, commitment to workforce development, and focus on mental health creates a foundation for sustainable growth that will benefit not just individual contractors, but the entire industry ecosystem.

For electrical contractors looking to stay ahead of these trends, the conversation is just beginning. The industry's embrace of technology, coupled with a renewed focus on culture and well-being, is creating unprecedented opportunities for those ready to lead. 

Ready to dive deeper into how technology is shaping construction's future? Learn how industry leaders like Baker Electric's Chief Information Officer, Brian Andrews, are leveraging AI and data strategies in our on-demand webinar: How Specialty Contractor CIOs are tackling resource challenges and getting AI-ready with Smart Construction Tech. 

Want to understand the broader trends shaping the industry? Download Procore's comprehensive State of Construction Report for data-driven insights into workforce development, technology adoption, and industry transformation.

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