Insights March 2014 by Think Baseline

Insights The magazine for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electrical and systems contractor

march 2014

www.ieci.org

Plus

Independent Electrical contractors

+ IECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emerging Leaders Initiative + Motivating Generation Y + Boost Productivity with Smartphones

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Show Your PRIDE Become an IEC PRIDE Member IEC PRIDE Members stand out as champions to the industry and the association. Show your support for IEC by joining the PRIDE Membership as a Gold or Silver Member.

With two different levels, showing your PRIDE should fit into any budget.

Gold Members Receive:

Silver Members Receive:

• Registration to the National Convention, which is automatically completed via concierge

• $25 off member registration fee and $25 off spouse/ guest registration fee for IEC National Convention and National Legislative Conference

• 10% off the National Convention registration price for other employees of the Gold Members’ company or chapter office • $50 off spouse/guest registration rate at the National Convention • $50 off registration fee for IEC National Legislative Conference • $150 off tuition for the Purdue Electrical Project Management Institute

• $150 off tuition for the Purdue Electrical Project Management Institute • 10% off IEC Pride Store orders • National Recognition ALL foR $300

• 10% off PRIDE Store purchases • National Recognition ALL foR $995

If you are interested in becoming a PRIDE Member, visit the IEC National website at www.ieci.org or contact the National Office at (703) 549-7351. independent electrical contractors

Insights

Contents

march 2014 | The magazine for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electrical and systems contractor

Features

12 IECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emerging Leaders Initiative

By William Atkinson

16 Motivating Generation Y

By Joseph Cephas, M.A.

20 Leading Through Generational Differences

By J. Zane Smith

24 Why Should You Be Involved in IEC?

By Troy Corrigan

26 Boost Productivity with Smartphones

By Jeremy Price

28 Wireless Technology: Friend or Foe?

By William F. Donahue, IV

www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

Contents Cont’d. 30

columns 6 President’s Message 8 From the Editor’s Desk 10 Marketing Matters 30 IEC Foundation

31 Inside IEC 32 Featured Products 36 Code Corner 37 Ad Index 38 Safety Corner

Comments? 4

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

We want your feedback! Send comments or suggestions to communications@ieci.org.

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President’s Message

Learning New Tricks By Gordon Stewart

hether you are just beginning your career in the electrical contracting industry or have a few years under your belt, IEC offers the opportunity for learning at every level of expertise. IEC’s four-year Apprenticeship Program is a world-class program designed to combine on-the-job training with expert classroom instruction. I have seen firsthand the top-notch students that IEC produces. But IEC is not just for apprentices. It also offers continuing education for contractors at all levels.

There are several opportunities to learn new things, whether through the IEC webinar series or the new Electrical and Systems Training Series (ESTS). The ESTS is made up of various courses for experienced electricians. Several courses are already available with more coming throughout 2014. The webinars are held monthly, are free for IEC members, and are as close as your computer. Recent topics included changes to the National Electrical Code and how the Affordable Care Act affects your business. The next webinar is March 19 on Code Violations. Visit www.ieci.org to register. With the development of the ESTS courses, the revamped Professional Electricians Program (PEP) will consist of nine of the 15 proposed ESTS courses. This is one of the programs in which I

am most excited. PEP will provide an alternative path for those who have electrical experience to gain the classroom knowledge without having to complete the four-year Electrical Apprenticeship Program. There are so many high-quality electricians who need the classroom work to combine with their on-the-job skills to make them truly great professionals. IEC continues to add value to the IEC Training Advantage program. With Legrand having joined as the inaugural Partner in Learning, IEC and its partners will bring the best in innovative products, technology, and expertise to the worldclass IEC training program. The Learning Management System continues to expand with online grading, test question banks, and instructor support to enhance the IEC training. IEC instructors are completing training to make them even better. Soon, IEC chapters and training programs will be able to be certified as excellent centers of learning through the IEC Credentialing Program. This program will also give Journeymen electricians the opportunity to have IEC credentials certifying their education. All of this training, continuing education, and instructor support creates the best contractors in the industry. I firmly believe that the IEC apprentice program is the best and all the other training helps keep us the best at what we do. I encourage all IEC members to view

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

the video on the Training Advantage page of the IEC National website which further details all of the breakthroughs in the IEC Training Advantage. As we continue to make strides to bring you the best in electrical training, stay updated by visiting the IEC National website and reading the IEC e-mails. I am proud of the progress we have made over the past two years but even more excited for what we will accomplish in the near future. Gordon Stewart is IEC’s 2014 National President. As the principal elected officer of the association, Stewart serves as chair to the Board of Directors, House of Delegates, and Executive Committee. He has been in the electrical industry for 35 years and is currently the General Manager at Joe Swartz Electric in Houston, Texas.

mark your calendars

2014 IEC National Legislative Conference May 19-21, 2014 Washington, D.C. Making your voice heard is more important than ever. Put forth your opinion on issues such as: • Boosting the economy • Protecting the merit shop philosophy • Improving education and technical skills training • Creating jobs • Healthcare • Tax issues

Member participation at the Legislative Conference has helped pass legislation benefiting the merit shop construction industry, created opportunities for Senators and Representatives to visit project sites and chapter facilities, and strengthened relationships between IEC members and their elected officials. 2014 Legislative Conference attendees will hear from a stellar lineup of key Administration officials and congressional leaders. Members will then spend an impactful day on Capitol Hill educating Members of Congress and their staffs on the issues that matter to you.

For more information, visit www.ieci.org.

independent electrical contractors

Insights MANAGEMENT

from the editor’s desk

EDITORIAL OFFICE Thayer Long, Publisher tlong@ieci.org Joseph Cephas, M.A., Editor-In-Chief jcephas@ieci.org Deborah Stadtler, Managing Editor dstadtler@ieci.org Marlise Drischler, Associate Editor mdrischler@ieci.org ADVERTISING Rich Ryan (330) 686-0353 rgrsvc@gmail.com DESIGN/ART DIRECTION Think Baseline PRINTING Mount Royal Printing 2014 IEC NATIONAL OFFICERS President Gordon Stewart, Houston, Texas Secretary/Treasurer Mark Gillespie, Clarksville, Ohio Senior Vice President Joseph Hovanec, Rahway, New Jersey Vice President Bruce Seilhammer, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania Immediate Past President Dean Kredit, Phoenix, Arizona Insights is published in January/ February, March, April, May/June, July, August, September/October, and November/December by the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc. Insights Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc. 4401 Ford Ave., Suite 1100 Alexandria, VA 22302 Tel: (703) 549-7351 Fax: (703) 549-7448 www.ieci.org

Established in 1957, IEC is a trade association with more than 3,000 company members and 55 chapters nationwide. Independent Electrical contractors Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, IEC is the nation’s premier trade association representing America’s independent electrical and systems contractors. IEC National aggressively works with the industry to establish a competitive environment for the merit shop – a philosophy that promotes the concept of free enterprise, open competition, and economic opportunity for all.

Forever a Student

s we mature and find our true passion in life, the word learning begins to take on a new meaning. For so much of our lives learning is a necessary task that we do to become more educated and prepare ourselves for a career. We take English, Math, and History to fulfill requirements and increase basic intellect. When the time comes for a student to choose a career path, they select classes that will equip them with the proper skill set.

Oftentimes, when a person begins taking classes solely dedicated to the career in which they have an interest, their participation increases. For example, when I took Algebra in high school, I understood the importance of the class and why the skills were needed and did relatively well academically. However, when I took Introduction to Public Relations with Dr. Anthony Peyronel at the Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, it changed my life. In the Introduction to Public Relations course, I was fully engaged and constantly thought of ways I could use the theories in the future. I went beyond what was required for the class and did additional research. I had a craving for more information and that was the indication that this was exactly what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Additionally, once the passion for a field of study is discovered, the learning is continuous. That drive to be a better professional will lead a person to increase their knowledge and technical skills. This is one of the many reasons why IEC members attend continuing education courses at chapters across the country – it is also the reason I went back to school to earn my Master’s Degree. One of the new offerings from IEC for the continuous learners is the Electrical and Systems Training Series (ESTS). With everything from Leadership to Blueprint to Electrical Theory, these courses can help electricians at all levels. For more information on ESTS, see the advertisement on the inside of the back cover. Lessons are not always in formal setting. There are times that a conversation with a colleague or trial-and-error can teach something that is not found in a book. A good blend of classroom work and networking can help a professional acquire more and more knowledge to set them apart in the workplace. This is why IEC offers three National Conferences that combine classroom sessions with informal networking time. Regardless if a person is 22 or 62, a truly dedicated professional will never stop learning. If you want the most up-to-date information, stay connected with IEC National by “liking” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/IEC.National, joining our group on LinkedIn, and “following” IEC National (@IEC_National) on Twitter. Also, follow our new company page (Independent Electrical Contractors) on LinkedIn. For more on IEC’s social media presence, turn to the advertisement on page 23.

Joseph G. Cephas, M.A. Vice President of Public Affairs Editor-In-Chief, Insights IEC National Follow on Twitter: @JosephCephas

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

2014 ! W E N

Webinar Series

As part of the IEC Training Advantage, IEC launched a new webinar series designed to keep members informed about issues that directly impact your business in the electrical contracting industry. These webinars are complimentary to all IEC members and will help you stay current. Topics are presented by IEC National staff and expert speakers in each information-packed hour.

March 19, 2014 Code Violations April 9, 2014 Recruitment (Workforce) Outreach May 7, 2014 Latest in Jobsite Technology June 11, 2014 Legislative and Regulatory Update July 9, 2014 Maximize Industry Partners August 20, 2014 Economic and Business Planning for 2015 September 17, 2014 Legislative and Regulatory Update October No programming due to the 57th Annual IEC National Convention & Electric Expo in Baltimore, Maryland. November 17, 2014 Legislative and Regulatory Update: Impact of the Election December 10, 2014 Emerging Trends: What Was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hotâ&#x20AC;? in 2014?

To sign up for a webinar and see full descriptions, go to www.ieci.org.

Independent Electrical Contractors

Marketing Matters

5 Steps

to a Killer Marketing Plan

By Adams Hudson

he number one marketing question from electricians is, “What do I do?” The second is, “When do I do it?” The right answer to each question takes planning. The effective contractor marketer knows the answers long before the questions are asked. A simple marketing “attack” plan gives you a strategy that considers the needs of your market and provides a year-round plan to meet those needs. It gives you a calm, rational approach to anticipate the slow times and provides ways to keep promoting yourself when business is booming. The plan can also put your sales and profits through the roof, the trouble is 77 percent of contractors don’t have one. Instead, they roll along while the weather is bringing in business, and the minute it slows, they start desperately throwing money on an ad. Without a plan a company is reactive when you should be proactive. Don’t fall into that trap. Your marketing plan also gives you the road map to ensure that you’ll arrive at your destination. You can make your plan short or quite complicated. Without knowing your company size, market size, or company maturity, here is a very simple plan that can get most anyone along a solid path. In order to have a killer marketing plan, you must decide:

1) Who are you trying to reach? Determine who you’re going to target with this program and rank them along with the potential size of the market. Even though you would like to be able to expand your marketing budget, it’s not inexhaustible. So, you’ll need to choose your targets carefully and launch your message with precision. One thing you should remember: an average message to the right target can do very well, even make good money. A great message to the wrong target will flop every time. You cannot underestimate the value of selecting the right target.

2) How do you plan to reach them? “Media” simply refers to how your message is delivered. Whether it’s a yard sign, a 30-minute TV infomercial, or a Facebook ad, your delivery method is your media. Choosing wisely is imperative. If you have a message and you want people to respond, you must share that message through the media that makes sense to them. (Remember to keep the SAME general message across all media.) Select your primary media choices based on your target market size and media cost. A business unwilling to operate through the media that prospects/customers are not only most likely to respond to but that offers a service to said prospect/customer causes loss of business, lack of customer loyalty, and, ultimately, smaller profits. 3) What advertising tools and unique message will you use? It’s amazing how many contractors deliver the same message as everyone else and think that they will get different results by purchasing expensive ad space and time. Peruse and choose the specific ads, cards, letters, scripts, and forms, knowing the ad “type” and the intended goals of each. (Also select any other ads that have been successful in the past.) Your unique message and your competitive advantages must be “alive” and simple to communicate in your media choices, through your technicians, and by those who refer you. You’ve won 50 percent of the battle by being different. The other 50 percent is what you say to whom. 4) When will you run your promotions? This question is answered based on the services you offer and how those services are affected by changing seasons. You can’t let the weather run your business, but you can partner with it to ensure a steady flow of income. Image and retention ads may be run all year long, but focus direct response for those times when you need to generate leads.

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

Many contractors think, “If business slows down, the first thing to shut off should be advertising.” This is like saying, “If an airplane slows down, the first thing to shut off should be the fuel supply.” When business slows, you simply market smarter by maximizing your contact methods. This can be done very efficiently among your customer and prospect base. 5) How much do you plan to spend? According to percentage of sales goals, the more aggressive your goal and the greater amount of “broad market” sales achievement required to reach it, the greater percentage you spend. •A n aggressive marketer will spend 6-8 percent of total projected sales volume on marketing and adopts a forceful message with the primary intent of massive lead generation in a multi-pronged attack. •A moderate marketer will spend 4-6 percent of sales volume on marketing and seeks to achieve a balance of image and direct response lead generation. •T he conservative marketer will spend 2.5-4 percent and tends to be more concerned with long-term image and less with “right now” lead generation. What contractors need is a strategy that considers the needs of your market and provides a year-round plan to meet those needs. Once you build it, chart its results, monitor it, and then only modify what needs work. After the first real planning efforts, your workload is tremendously reduced. Adams Hudson is president of Hudson, Ink, a national marketing firm for contractors and an IEC National Bronze Industry Partner. Insights readers can get a no-cost “Marketing Budget Calculator” and a free subscription to the industry’s top training resource, the Sales & Marketing Insider eNewsletter, by e-mailing a polite request to INSIGHTS@hudsonink.com or by calling (800) 489-9099.

Advertorial The Costliest Mistake in Contractor Advertising Insights readers can get a Free Information Kit that shows you how to eliminate this problem. I think you'll agree that building a steady stream of new customer projects is the foundation of a successful contracting business. Each new customer is literally "money in the bank". Here's why: • Relationships drive repeat business: We prefer to deal with people we know, like and trust. Without a relationship we only have "transactions", subject to bidding, intense competition and low margins. • Customers negotiate transactions, Clients rely on relationships: topof-mind awareness coupled with quality work, helpful advice and expert reputation will TRANSFORM your customers into clients. Actually, the secret to magically transforming customers into clients is pretty simple, and I want to GIVE you my entire method of doing this for FREE. Yes, you heard me right, FREE. This method will build and reinforce credibility and authority. In the free "secrets" kit, you'll learn exactly how to become recognized as a leading expert – a trusted authority – when it comes to choosing the best services for client needs. You’ll also learn how to Block out competitors because this system keeps YOU at "top-of-mind", competitors are invisible in the eyes of your clients. The only contractor they'll think of calling is YOU! This program uses techniques that “marry” your offline and online retention efforts, allowing you to reinforce customer relationships across multiple media platforms. Of course there's much more to it than I can describe here. That's why I'd like to personally invite you to request my special "Contractor Retention System Information Kit" (no charge for Insights readers). I know that running a business keeps you busy and many things are put off in favor of “putting out the fires” of today. But don’t let that stop you from getting this free information on how to install an automatic, turn-key, Customer Retention program to make sure your customers stay your customers. Call us at 800-489-9099 to get your Free Information Kit. Or email us at insights@hudsonink.com, go online to www.CustomerRetentionProgram.com, or fax your letterhead to 334-262-1115 (we try to make it easy!).

Feature

IECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

emer lea ini

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

ging

ders

tiative by William Atkinson

recently launched initiative by IEC, called Emerging Leaders, is already reaping benefits. At the national level, the program is informal, consisting of a number of courses and programs being offered by IEC at conventions and other conferences. However, the program is already being formalized in at least two IEC chapters: IEC Rocky Mountain and IEC Atlanta. “One thing IEC realizes is that we need to prepare the next generation of leaders, not only within IEC, but also within our member companies to help these people take the step to becoming the next generation of leaders,” said Thayer Long, Executive Vice President and CEO of IEC National. “We need to adapt and help prepare the next generation of leaders as they advance in their careers.” After having offered a few Emerging Leader courses to interested participants over the last year or so, IEC hosted an Emerging Leaders Happy Hour at the 56th Annual IEC National Convention & Electric Expo in Portland, Oregon. “It was a huge success,” said Long. “We were hoping for about 20 people, but we were pleasantly surprised that about 50 showed up.” IEC plans to continue its efforts by offering more seminars, classes, and other educational programs for emerging leaders in the future. Continued on page 14 >

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Feature < Continued from page 13

Rocky Mountain Leaders

One of the chapters that has already taken steps to formalize Emerging Leaders is the Denver, Colorado-based Independent Electrical Contractors – Rocky Mountain (IECRM). “A lot of people in leadership positions in our organization around the country understand the need to prepare younger members to eventually take over the positions of leadership,” said Spenser Villwock, MNM, LEED-AP, CEO of the chapter. “However, there has been some difficulty in engaging these younger people to really be able to see the value of gaining more experience and viewing it as a conduit to moving into positions of leadership.” The Emerging Leaders Program at IECRM helps the chapter’s member companies identify the people who are mid-career and are on a trajectory in their careers to become senior leaders within their respective companies and within the industry in general. The companies include electrical contractors, as well as manufacturers and distributors, ensuring a good cross-section of the industry. “One reason we started the program in our chapter is that we see the need to be able to engage our younger talent and provide them with relevant resources, programs, and tools to help make our association the best it can be, as well as for our member companies to be the best they can be,” said Villwock. Participation in the chapter’s program is limited to 25 people. They are handselected by current leaders who identify the people in their organizations as the ones they would like to have replace them in five, 10, or 15 years. “In terms of cost, since it is one of our member services, we operate it as a break-even

proposition,” said Villwock. In most cases, the member companies cover the cost of the program for the people they send. “We are in the middle of our second year, and, fortunately, we haven’t had to turn anyone away yet,” he said. “Our first year, we had 24 people in the program. This year, we have 22. However, as we continue to move forward, we anticipate that it will become a highly competitive program, and, at some point, we may need to begin to turn people away.” As a way to select people, the chapter has an application process, in which applicants are asked about their backgrounds, what their motives are, and what they want to gain. “We also ask for information from the sponsors – the senior leaders who are nominating these people,” continued Villwock. “What is it about this person that makes them a rising star?” As the program gains momentum, and as the chapter does need to start turning people away, it will probably create a weighting tool in the application process to determine who will be selected. Emerging Leaders is a six-month program at IECRM. The group meets one day per month for the six months. Each session includes an outside expert speaker, such as someone who talks about how to read financial statements. “During one of the sessions, we visit the state capital so the participants can meet state legislators, learn how legislative decisions are made related to our industry, and why they need to pay attention to that,” said Villwock. In addition, in order to be a leader, a person needs to understand themselves, their characteristics, and their traits before they can be expected to successfully lead a group of people. “As a result, we do a lot of introspection in the sessions,” he said. “Many of these people are in their mid-30s, and they have been focused so much on products and work processes

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

that they have lost touch with who they are, what their skills are, and where they are going. We bring in speakers who help them engage in this analysis.” Another benefit of the program is that it provides networking opportunities for the participants. During the sessions, they have the opportunity to spend time with other people who are also rising stars within their organizations. These relationships will serve them well in their careers for decades to come, according to Villwock. “Regardless of how the industry changes, it always has been, and always will be, a relationship-driven environment,” he said. “This is especially important for younger people to learn and experience. Many of them have grown up interacting with others in a virtual environment – through the swipe of a finger or the touch of a button.” This program provides them with face-to-face contact. As the program progresses, IECRM is seeing some of the older leaders, some of whom have put off plans to retire because they weren’t able to identify qualified people to replace them, starting to actually make plans to retire. Villwock says he is happy to discuss the program with other IEC chapter leaders around the country who are interested in considering an Emerging Leaders program in their chapters. You can e-mail him at spenser@iecrm.org or call (303) 853-4886.

Rising Leaders in Atlanta

Another chapter that has taken steps to formalize the Emerging Leaders program is IEC Atlanta in Atlanta, Georgia. “The decision to begin an Emerging Leaders Program in our chapter came about as a result of our 2011-2013 strategic plan,” said Niel Dawson, Executive Director of IEC Atlanta and IEC Georgia. “We realized that, because of the aging of the workforce, we needed to look at leadership for our members and for the association. In addition, I think that as an industry and an association, we have been doing a good job of recruiting new people into the profession. However, we haven’t put as much attention on developing people into leaders once they are in the profession.” In mid-2012, Dawson began looking at leadership material. “There was a ton out there,” he said. “We ended up selecting John Maxwell’s material as the basis for our program. He has written a number of books and is actually based in the Atlanta metro area.” Two of his books that the program uses are The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth and The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership.

All of the presenters bring business cards with them for each of the participants. So, at the end of the program, each participant will have about 35 business cards with contact information for professionals to whom they can reach out when they need help with various issues.

The program involves one full day session per month for eight months. At each session, a certified John Maxwell trainer comes in and conducts the leadership component in the morning. The afternoons are devoted to specialty topics, such as finance, legal, human resources, information technology, and other issues, as well as the importance of being involved in the political process.

“We have done some informal checking with people in the program, and we have been getting very good reviews,” said Dawson. “We have also been asking them if they want any adjustments to the program, and, so far, we haven’t heard anything along these lines.”

“We began marketing the program at our monthly luncheon meetings,” said Dawson. Individuals who want to be in the program must be nominated, registered, and sponsored by the owners of their companies. Of course, owners themselves can nominate, register, and sponsor themselves. The cost of the program is $795, or basically $100 per session, and owners generally pay that for their employees. “We decided that we wanted to have between 12 and 16 people in the program, and we ended up with 14, about three or four of whom are business owners,” explained Dawson. “We didn’t want too many people, because there is a lot of discussion and interaction among the participants, including the importance of work-life balance. It’s not all just a lecture format.”

IEC Atlanta anticipates starting another program in the Fall of 2014. In addition, while the program was launched by IEC Atlanta, it will eventually also be open to IEC Georgia members. Watch for Emerging Leader Programs to be a trend within IEC at the national and chapter level. IEC’s dedication to the industry extends through the full cycle of a career from apprentice training through skills development such as these Emerging Leader Programs and into leadership dynamics.

Another benefit for participants, besides just learning the information, has been the opportunity to network with each other.

William Atkinson is a freelance writer with experience in the construction and contracting industries.

www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

By Joseph G. Cephas, M.A.

They are lazy. They walk in the door demanding a promotion and raise. They spend the entire day glued to their phone. These are just a few of the many misconceptions associated with Generation Y (also known as Millennials).

The stereotypes that haunt Generation Y have carried over into today’s workplaces. The generational gap between the Baby Boomers and Generation Y is filled with miscommunication and fallacies. With the elders of Generation Y established in their careers and a high number just entering the workforce, many Baby Boomers and Generation Xers are struggling with how to motivate the Millennials to take pride in their work. It is common for older generations to criticize younger generations. In 400 B.C., Socrates said, “Our youth have contempt for authority; they show disrespect for our elders.” This illustrates that the negative perception of younger generations is not a new problem. Currently, there is a lack of awareness on what motivates Generation Y. First, we must define the generations. Smashed in between the Baby Boomers and Millennials is Generation X. The generally accepted timeframes of each generation is Baby Boomers – born 1946-1964; Generation X – born 1965-1979; Generation Y – born 1980-2000. A major factor in the generational conversation is population. The Baby Boomers are often described as the most populous generation with 79 million Americans falling into that category. Generation X is sometimes overlooked due to their small population of only 49 million Americans. The biggest surprise, and what is unbeknownst to many people, is the Generation Y population is nearly as large Baby Boomers with 77 million American Millennials.* *The timeframe of generations varies based on publication, which in turn effects the population of each. However, all of the statistics remain relatively consistent. Continued on page 18 >

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Feature < Continued from page 16

Characteristics of Millennials Stereotypes are typically based on characteristics of a group. However, the focus is on the negative characteristics and often takes traits of the lowest common denominator and applied to the entire group. This careless grouping of people is dangerous in society and in the workplace. To dispel the stereotypes that plague the Millennials, we will lay out the characteristics of Generation Y and how they have been misconstrued as a negative.

According to the Pew Research Center, Generation Y is on pace to become the most educated generation ever. With an emphasis on post-secondary education from their Baby Boomer and Generation X parents, many Millennials are not satisfied with their high school diploma – they attend college and enroll in apprenticeship training and/or academies to continuously learn. This focus on continual learning is one the reasons why many Millennials are in a rush to climb the ladder.

How many times have you seen a young adult walking while holding a conversation, checking Facebook, and responding to a text message? Having this wealth of connectivity at their fingertips has trained Millennials’ brains to focus on multiple things at one time. Of course, there are many negatives that come with the mobile phone. However, focusing on the positives, it provided the ability to quickly research or process new information.

The younger generation is always searching for a way to streamline their work processes. Millennials were raised in a time when new technology can revolutionize a business and then be obsolete the next month. This rapid evolution of technology forces users to be at the forefront of the next best thing. Whether it’s using a new device or tool, they consistently challenge the notion, “That’s the way we’ve always done it.” While in pursuit of a new way of completing their work, these Millennials aim for efficiency instead of daily routines. People of Generation Y also ask “Why?” That simple question opens the door to evaluate new business methods on a jobsite or in the office.

motivation tactics One of the biggest dilemmas facing today’s business owners is how to motivate Millennials in the workplace. Due to the consistent rise of the average retirement age, more generations are working together than ever. The disconnect between Baby Boomers in management positions and Millennials can be bridged by using tools to motivate this generation of up-and-comers.

When the Millennials question why the work needs to be done a certain way, management should have a clear, well thought-out answer. This generation needs the direction and reassurance that the work plan laid out by management is the best course of action. Taking the time to clearly explain set expectations will put

the Millennial at ease and increase their productivity. The simple peace of mind of understanding the reasoning behind the work can change their outlook. Additionally, it is important to communicate the path the Millennial can take to advance in their career. These ambitious individuals will be encouraged to work harder if they have control of their own future. This will help focus their determined personality. Take an active role in their development toward their career goals to encourage quality production early in their career. “Clear and active communication is critical in any relationship, and can be even more so important when communicating with colleagues in different generational groups,” said Spenser Villwock, CEO of IEC Rocky Mountain (IECRM). “Gen Y does not resonate as much with a simple punch list of tasks or a ‘do as I say’ approach. Yers like to understand why what they are doing is important

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

to the project, why then the project is important to the company, and how they are contributing to something larger than just the task they are asked to accomplish.”

More than ever, people are striving toward a better work/life balance. As far as scheduling, that is easier in an office environment than at a contracting company. Work/life balance does not have to be at the mercy of hard work. In the construction industry where many of the field workers are hourly and not salary, when the work is heavy, workers will need to work longer days. However, at the slower times, permitting flexible work hours or having the workers have a say on the schedule (while still complying with the specific job’s schedule) could go a long way in boosting morale. Work/life balance is not as much about total hours worked as it is about control of those hours.

for authority and peers will help the Y leader be respected as well.

Joseph Cephas, M.A., is the Vice President of Public Affairs for IEC National and Editor-inChief of Insights. He is responsible for the dissemination of all information including publications and digital communication. Cephas earned his Bachelor’s degree in Speech Communications and his Master’s degree in Communications Studies with an emphasis on Management and Leadership Communication from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. While completing his Master’s degree, he studied crossgenerational management extensively.

The most important step to earning respect is performing well. Millennials’ performance should gain them respect in the workplace regardless of their age. Other generations need to put the Millennials in the best position to succeed to have a cohesive workplace.

Baby Boomers believe in earned respect; it is not free or given to anyone just because of their title – this is attributed to hardworking roots. You have to prove to them that you are willing to put in the work. This is less true for Generation X. They are willing to give respect to authority but they have more of a rebellious streak than Boomers. They are known to protest more than the previous generation. One of the bad characteristics, or myths depending on who you talk to, of Generation Y is a lack of respect for their superiors. It is nearly impossible for someone to be respected if they do not respect others. Having a respect

Although many of the characteristics are sweeping generalities, they are based on research of trends of the specific generations. These varying generations can coexist in an office or on a jobsite – it will take hard work and understanding. Generation Y is just as hard working as Generation X and the Baby Boomers, they just have different sources of motivation.

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www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

Leading

Through

Generational Differences By J. Zane Smith

ith exponentially exploding technology, individuals prolonging retirement, and the melding of generations, leaders today face a variety of challenges. Differences in cultures, values, genders, and educational experiences form a wide divergence between traditionalists and Generation Y. A majority of traditionalists have retired or are in the process of retiring; Baby Boomers are continuing to work; and Generation Y is entering the workforce. Due to these various factors, leaders are facing challenges that have never been faced. Skills vary from the top-level management throughout the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s structure and to the customer. Continued on page 22 >

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

Why Do Contractors Select Beneco? BENECO is a nationwide leader in providing prevailing wage plans to construction companies performing projects subject to the Davis Bacon Act and the Service Contract Act. By saving millions of dollars in effectively applying fringe contributions, Beneco has helped position contractors to:

SAVE 6%-8% on Total Labor Escape 25%-30% on Every FRINGE Dollar in FICA Taxes, State & Federal Unemployment Taxes, Workers Compensation & General Liability BID Prevailing Wage Projects More Competitively Attract and Retain Skilled Employees

Feature

Step 4:

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

< Continued from page 20

Generations, in the past, have carried similarities but the traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y have vastly significant differences and may not share viewpoints regarding technology, communication, and world views. By examining these differences, one can see why these differences are so important to the leaders and the growth of companies.

The Times Change Technological advancement seems to be at the forefront of these differences. When one considers the fact that the traditionalists listened to the radio, the Baby Boomers experienced television, Generation X grew up with the computer and cell phone, and Generation Y uses the internet and texting, you start to gain an understanding of the challenges facing leaders. Technology has morphed communication 180 degrees from listening to the radio to “Skype-ing” on a computer. The power of history on a generation should not be overlooked. Whether it was on U.S. soil or worldwide, different generational groups experienced the effects of the Great Depression, World Wars I & II, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and 9/11. These events helped define the generational ideas of how the workplace should be defined. As an emerging leader, one has the advantage of all available information regarding each generation’s valuable contributions—it is there for the taking from the internet, the library, conferences, or mentoring. Now the challenge becomes how to best use the information for leading the company forward.

Step 1:

Understand Yourself as a Leader Only by understanding who you are and how you fit within the organization’s value system and work relationships of generational differences within the company can you gain respected leadership. After that respected position is established, you can lead the company to greater profits and longevity. So the question becomes: “Who am I?”

Step 2:

Understand Your Audience An effective leader must understand the audience. What does that mean? Ask what generational group(s) your employees represent. What about your clients? As time goes on, the employees as well as the clients will shift from one generational group to another. A leader has to be aware of these changes and foresee different approaches to both groups.

Step 3:

Understand Your Company Mission With so many businesses “passing the torch,” employees and clients will question new leadership and company focus. An effective leader cannot be offended but must question if the company’s mission is still the same or if it should be changed to meet continued success. A leader has to ascertain whether to move quickly or slowly, but more than anything else, a leader must instill trust within the employees and the clients.

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

A successful leader embraces, lives, and breathes the word “communicate.” With generational differences, communication must come in a variety of ways. Whether it’s a written letter, an e-mail, a phone call, a face-to-face meeting, a video conference, or various other avenues of communication, the important point is to be in constant communication. The lack of communication causes a break in a relationship and then the relationship slowly dies. Therefore, too much emphasis cannot be placed on the facts to communicate regularly, provide clear understanding, and always be willing to receive feedback.

Step 5:

Listen

The highest form of communication is listening! Never underestimate the importance of being a great listener. Even though an effective leader is able to fulfill all the four above steps, that leader can always learn from someone else. Don’t disregard sound ideas and advice—one never reaches the point of knowing everything! Listening and learning is a lifelong process. With all the information and knowledge at your fingertips, there is no excuse to not take advantage of every available opportunity to become that effective leader that will carry the company to unimaginable heights. J. Zane Smith is a founding Partner and Senior Vice President of Beneco, an IEC Bronze Industry Partner. Beneco is a nationwide leader in providing solutions for contractors throughout the United States who perform projects that are subject to municipal, city, and state prevailing wage laws and the federal Davis-Bacon and Service Contract Acts regulations and requirements. The Beneco bona fide plans save clients millions of dollars in labor burden costs.

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Feature

Why Should You Be Involved in IEC? By Troy Corrigan

ver the last few years I have been asked the same question on numerous occasions: Why are you involved with IEC? Depending on the topic or location of the meeting, I might have a different answer but there are three main reasons why I am involved: giving back to improve our industry, personal growth, and ownership. These three reasons have created a passion in me for IEC and a mission for me to improve myself along with improving the electrical industry.

Supporting Our Industry Originally, I became involved in my local IEC chapter to give back to the industry that provides a career for me and helps keep food on the table for

the more than 40 families that rely on Corrigan Electric for their income. I have found you can give back in many ways in your local electrical industry, such as teaching the electrical class to local home builders, working with vocational school students, or serving on the state electrical advisory board. The best way to improve our industry is to connect all of those together by volunteering with your IEC chapter. I have tried various avenues and various positions such as teaching in the Apprenticeship Program, teaching continuing education classes, serving on a committee, and serving on the chapter board. You can do the same without leaving your comfort zone and the area you live in. You can figure out where your passion is, and your local chapter will be thankful for your service.

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

If you want to step out of your comfort zone, serving on a committee with IEC National can be rewarding and helps improve our industry across the country. Giving back gives me a sense of accomplishment but also helps improve the electrical industry to benefit all of us and the future electricians that will chose their careers in our industry. The question I ask is: If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t volunteer to improve the electrical industry, who will?

Growing Professionally Surprisingly, serving in positions within IEC on the local or national level has been the best way for me to grow personally as a business person. There has been no better way for me to learn. I began by hinting that I could perhaps do something at the local IEC chapter, but

I didn’t have a strong idea about what to do. The next thing I knew I was being sworn into the Vice President position at our local chapter. To me this was a risk for IEC and for me as I was jumping into the deep end right away. I was nervous at the first meeting, but I soon realized that just being there and providing input was a benefit. My involvement went from a risk to reward in the terms of personal growth without me even realizing it. I am no stranger to taking risks and biting off more than I can chew. In March 1997 my father asked me on a Monday night to start as supervisor the next morning! As a 22-year-old, I did not see the big picture, just a raise and new job. I had no idea what was in store when on Friday he handed me his cell phone and truck keys and informed me he was headed on his already planned vacation. I guess he knew I couldn’t bury the company in a week, but his leap of faith taught me a lot in one week’s time. Volunteering for IEC has been the same for me. Jumping in has made me learn, grow, and want to give even more back. We are all good electricians and have different visions for our businesses, but we need to be learning and growing professionally as business people. The best electricians are those who have been trained by IEC through the Apprenticeship Program, continuing education programs, and on-the-job field training from the generation of electricians ahead of us in the business. Since IEC is the best place to learn electrically, why not use the resource of IEC and become the best business person by being trained professionally? IEC offers many classes and meeting opportunities for us to learn without having to step out of our comfort zone. Being involved and attending meetings and events also has created a rewarding side effect for me. More often than not for me, the best business training has been the time sitting on a Board of Directors or committee meeting learning from my peers that are serving with me. The time spent having a cocktail at our local happy hour, hanging out in the hotel lobby at IEC National meetings, having dinner with fellow members, and even

There are three main reasons why I am involved in IEC: giving back to improve our industry, personal growth, and ownership.

riding the bus to and from the airport at an IEC National meeting has become a valuable resource for me to learn how to be a better business person. I call it fellowship time spent asking someone all about themselves and their business. The only way to do this is to be at the meetings at your chapter and attending the national meetings. It takes time away from my business but if I go to a meeting at our chapter or travel to a national event, I always leave with at least one idea that can be implemented in our business right away that will more than cover the cost of travel or being away from the business. We all can use that one idea several times a year that can make a difference in our business. Start looking for yours.

Ownership of IEC As business leaders, I have found we all spend a lot of time working in and on our businesses. What about the other part of our business: IEC? IEC is an extension of our business, an integral part that provides countless benefits from advocacy to education to safety. Whose IEC is this? IEC belongs to you, me, and any employee of an IEC member company. As a member, we are owners of IEC. If we own an integral part of the business, why don’t we act as owners and invest time and energy to improve that part of our business? We would not dare buy or start a business then not use our resources to improve that business. With the right leaders in place that business would strum along and probably survive, but an owner or leader always needs to provide input and guidance to have a successful business. IEC is the same;

we have great staff leaders that run our local chapters and IEC National on a dayto-day basis. We also need the members to take ownership to provide the guidance and leadership to keep IEC on the forefront of the industry. Chapter and national staff have proven they can and will do anything that will improve IEC, but they need all of us to provide input on where we are going. We are the electricians and electrical contractors that know our businesses and what IEC can best do to support our business. The staff needs us to volunteer, serve, guide, and lead our industry today and tomorrow in a way that will improve the industry, livelihoods, and safety of all the workers in IEC. It only makes sense we work on and in IEC like we do our businesses. I encourage you to take ownership and give back to the electrical industry to feel the accomplishment of serving with IEC. You will also experience personal business growth that will surprise you. The return on investment of IEC is far too valuable for you to not join your fellow members at your chapter events and serve IEC on the national level. Troy Corrigan is Vice President and General Manager of Corrigan Electric in Louisville, Kentucky. He has been in the electrical field since the age of 16, advancing from a helper to licensed Master Electrician and electrical contractor. Corrigan is involved in the Home Builders Association of Louisville, IEC, and the Kentucky State Electrical Advisory Board. He has taught in the IEC Kentucky & Southern Indiana Apprenticeship Program and currently serves on the IEC National Board and chairs the Membership Committee.

www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

Boost Productivity with Smartphones

By Jeremy Price

obile devices are a key to profits for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s businesses. We are all aware that minutes are the underlying success or failure to any business. Converting even a small amount of minutes per day per worker from lost time to productivity will increase the bottom line.

of $80 for that fifteen minutes. Being able to convert this time to production allows for an increase in profitability. The same 10-worker crew, being billed out at $60 per hour can then turn a loss of $80 for those fifteen minutes to a profit of $150. If this happens in a five-day work week, it is an increase of $750 per week; $39,000 per year for one 10-worker crew.

If a business has a 10-worker crew on a job and each crew member is capable of converting 15 minutes of their day from nonproductive time to productive time, the increase in profitability is immense.

One of the most versatile tools that almost every business has available from the management staff to the newest apprentice is a smartphone. This device, when used properly, is able to save every person time. Smartphones can increase communication while reducing interruptions, improve accuracy of communication and documentation, and streamline the transfer of information without the loss of travel time.

The cost of this nonproduction to a business for a 10-worker crew for the lost 15 minutes (equaling a total of two and a half hours for the crew), at a cost of $32 per hour per worker, is an increase

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

Staying Out of the Office Some of the ways businesses are able to utilize smartphones are by keeping people in the field and not in the office. Having lead people use their smartphone or tablets to get documents to the office instead of delivering paperwork by hand helps tremendously. There are several applications available for download where users can take pictures of receipts, sales orders, packing slips, material orders, timesheets, and vacation requests. These high-resolution images can then be converted to PDF files and sent either through an e-mail or to cloud storage. If something needs to be fabricated at the shop, a worker on a jobsite can draw it up, take a picture of the plans, and have them e-mailed into the office. Every time the field staff stops by the office, not only are they losing production time for themselves and whomever is traveling with them, but also the office staff they need to speak to as well as anyone they stop to chat with along the way. The possible cost to a company by having someone come to the office versus using their smartphone to send documents is extensive. For example, having a lead worker with another person travel to the office is $120 (two man hours). Add in truck fuel of $10, 30 minutes at the office for $60, 15 minutes of administrative time for $12, and 15 minutes for conversing with others for $50 (possibly more) totals out at $252 for one document to be delivered to the office. In the same instance, if a smartphone is used instead, the time is five minutes for a total cost of $3.

Efficient Communication Smartphones also eliminate miscommunication and interruptions by corresponding through text and/ or e-mail. Utilizing e-mail for work orders, contact information, instructions, driving directions, and even for service manuals is an important aspect all businesses should partake in.

As a person in management, there is nothing more distracting than being in the middle of a project when the phone rings. Then you have to stop what you are doing and listen to the problem while taking notes. When you finally hang up, it’s a struggle to remember what you were doing and where you were before you were interrupted. For field staff, it is even worse. They could be standing on a ladder or hanging a pipe, and the project manager could call. This would require them to stop what they are doing and get down from the ladder just to answer the phone. It also probably requires a crew of people working alongside them to stop as well. Then they would need to find a pencil and paper, take notes, and finally climb back onto the ladder to continue their work. Once he/she is done with the task at hand, they would have to go searching for the scrap of paper and hope they would be able to decipher the notes.

the accuracy of the timekeeping itself. It records exactly where and when an employee clocked in. This system also allows for the input of what task was performed as well, all with little to no assistance from the office staff. A great aspect of this application is that it allows for office personnel to see this information in real time.

If the project manager typed a quick e-mail to the foreman defining what they wanted and when, time and money could be saved and accurate documentation could be referred to later on, if need be.

In addition, the use of a smartphone or tablet can improve the function of a service department. Having a customer take a picture of their issue and forwarding them to your service manager will not only save the customer money but also your service department’s time. Once a service technician arrives onsite, they will be capable of using their own smartphone to take pictures of the existing conditions. They also could search service manuals and order parts, if needed. Once the job is completed, they could then proceed to document how the site looks, as well as create an invoice, process payments, and procure a signature from the customer without involving multiple people and data entries in the process.

Field staff can also e-mail material requests to multiple vendors all while copying in their project managers. This eliminates the need to call and risk miscommunication. Foreman can easily state what material is needed, when it is needed, and where it needs to be delivered. They can also state who needs to approve the material request. This e-mail chain makes it easier for follow-ups or to see which vendors are not responding in a timely manner.

Electronic Timesheets There are several great electronic timekeeping systems that are excellent for the construction industry in particular. One example uses smartphones to track employee and equipment time. It then digitally transfers the information into a business’ payroll. Not only does it streamline the payroll process by eliminating the need for data entry of paper timesheets, it also improves

submittals, requests for information, operations and maintenance manuals, subcontractor information, and punch lists. The elimination of rework can make a significant impact on the profitability of a project and, in turn, a company.

This type of time tracking allows for the project manager and foreman to use the information to monitor and react to low field production quickly instead of waiting to get the information when it is processed. This same method can also shorten the billing cycle by making the actual hours used on a job available to accounting on a daily or even hourly basis.

Smartphone Service

It gets easier every day for the field staff to have complete and up-to-date project documents. My firm uses a service called Syncplicity, which allows the field staff access to selected project documents that are current and provides them and the project manager with a complete listing of any edits that have been made to a document. This increases the visibility of changes and makes sure everyone is using the same accurate information. Tracked documents include plans, specifications,

Using a smartphone to document progress on a project and take photos of completed or damaged work is something every business should utilize. This helps leadmen to receive direction without the need for a joint meeting.

Save Time with Smartphones Phones are not just for talking any more. They are a time-saving tool! Even the newest employee can use a smartphone for a business’ benefit. There are hundreds of applications available that provide trade-specific knowledge. Electrical calculations; conduit bending; safety; rigging; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; and framing are just a few examples of applications that are available for download. These can keep employees working efficiently without having to interrupt any other workers and therefore increasing profitability for a company. Teaching employees both in the field and in the office to use smartphones or tablets helps to increase production, communicate more accurately, and document their work will ultimately improve the bottom line. Jeremy Price is the Owner of Price Industrial Electric. He started his company in 1996 at the age of 23. During the past 17 years, the company has grown to over 100 employees and includes multiple divisions. The Price Industrial division focuses on work in manufacturing and water treatment facilities as well as directional boring and other utility installations. Price Electric focuses on commercial, residential, and agricultural opportunities. HITECH Communications focuses on various types of low-voltage installations including fiber optics and data cabling.

www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

wireless

technology Friend or foe?

By William F. Donahue, IV

wise man once said, “He who hesitates is lost.” Flip it around to today and aim it at our industry, and he could very well be talking about the explosion in wireless technology. Because those electrical contractors who hesitate in embracing the surge in wireless advancements may very well be facing lost business.

Whenever I discuss wireless with my customers, not necessarily advocating it but merely mentioning it as something that exists, an immediate wall goes up, built on a foundation that electricians make money by pulling wires. No wires, no income. But that argument will not hold as our industry moves into the future. Wires aren’t going away simply because wireless technology has taken over the world. It might be a convenience that a homeowner can dim a ceiling light with a wireless remote. But that ceiling light needs a power source, and the power source needs wires, and wires need an electrician to install them.

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

Low-Voltage Contractors Let’s look at the low-voltage and building controls industry, the people who put in alarm systems, closed-circuit television, thermostats, building control systems, and other similar devices or systems. While many licensed electricians cannot identify with low-voltage contractors due to the different power and license limitations they face, these installers, alarm in particular, have seen their industries go through the very change that we are discussing. The alarm, low-voltage, and communications industries had long been a hard wire heaven. Wire management was developed in those industries to avoid the “rats nest” of wire confusion.

Not that long ago those industries were forced into and began the wireless transition, essentially eliminating the need to wire any devices. What did they do? They adapted, adopted, and adjusted; now many of the products they use regularly are wireless.

Putting the End User First Our industry has seen a “race to the socket” in the lighting field with all sorts of energy-efficient lighting products being installed. The negative impact of longlasting LED lamps and fixtures on the electrical maintenance market do not seem to concern the electrical tradesman as the mention of wireless technologies does. The utilities, tax codes, or markets may seem to be blindly pushing LED technologies but it is more about the industry addressing our end users’ needs and concerns. A typical sales technique when an electrical contractor is selling an energy-efficient lighting job is to express the savings the customer will enjoy in maintenance costs. This is money taken directly out of the industry without a thought because that is what is best for the end user. The new wireless technologies may spark a new race to the switch or control point. There are other players in this area that the end user can turn to that have been dealing with wireless devices and technologies for the past 10 years, putting them ahead of the curve. In many instances these competitors share your customer base. They are the security company with the burglar alarm panel in the building; the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning contractor that maintains the thermostats or building control systems; or even the phone or cable companies that provide their services to the facility. Because of wireless technologies, all of these competitors are in a position to offer your customer a service that was traditionally owed by our industry, controlling the light switches. In many cases if you are the one that presents the best option to your customer, you are awarded the job. Let’s use a hotel

for an example. No hotel owner wants to shut down a room for two or three days and lose money on that room so a system can be wired. If you are aware of and present a wireless alternative where you do not interrupt their business flow, the hotel will usually pay a premium to get the job done that way. The same can be said on the residential front. Wireless devices are more expensive but that should not be seen as a deterrent. The end user will generally consider new technologies and pay a premium if these options are presented at the time they are performing upgrades anyway. The wireless switch may allow you to finish a job quicker and more profitably as well as introduce your customer to a technology they may want to expand on, creating more work. You may also make more profits on materials: 20 percent markup on a traditional $2 switch or 20 percent on a $20 wireless switch. A switch that controls a light fixture or device you still need to wire power to. In historic buildings and centuries-old churches, I have seen contractors propose wireless technologies for fire alarm systems and lighting control as the best option for the customer, allowing them to maintain the integrity of the structure, minimize damage and down time, and maintain the aesthetics of the buildings. Needless to say, the end user was ecstatic and was willing to pay a premium for this option. The hidden gem in the scenario for the electrical contractor was he was able to avoid liability issues from having employees work with ladders, drills, and tools near priceless pieces of furniture, fixtures, and artwork. In many cases, the wireless devices were installed in a few minutes. The contractor increased their profits over a hard-wired system by a considerable amount, finished it ahead of schedule, and gained a long-term customer.

A Proven Option Another argument I hear in opposition of embracing wireless is the perception that the wireless signal can be interfered with, as if the strength level were on par with baby monitors. Advancements in the

wireless signal have been tremendous. In many cases, wireless systems utilize FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum) technology, the same signaling frequency used by NASA and the military. As one wireless company executive described it, “This isn’t your basic radio frequency application, garage door opener signaling. It’s the same four-frequency technology used by the military when a drone thousands of feet in the air is communicating to a transmitter buried in a bunker two miles underground.” This being said, there are many applications where a clearly defined point-to-point piece of wire is the best approach for the customer but do not be concerned that wireless is not a proven option. This is not an argument one way or the other on whether wireless is better than traditional hard-wired solutions. There are obvious cases to be made for each. But it is a word of advice to our industry that more and more applications will become available and the technologically savvy younger generation will become the decision makers. If they want to start using their smartphone to turn on the outdoor patio lights or turn on the heat at their office from 30 miles away, we need to at least understand what is going on and what product and technologies are available. Others already do. I don’t believe wires are going away but I do believe there will be fewer. Understand the wireless world and accept there are applications for it. It will mean something to your bottom line and the future stability of our industry. Ostriches bury their head in the sand so they won’t be seen. If the electrical industry chooses to do the same when it comes to understanding wireless technologies and their application, then there’s a good chance that when the end user makes a decision on who to hire for that next big project, the electrical contractor won’t be seen. William F. Donahue, IV, is President of Crown Supply Co., Inc, an award-winning distributor of electrical and fire alarm products with locations in Providence, Rhode Island, and Milford, Massachusetts. For more information, visit www.crownsupply.com.

www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

IEC Foundation

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION By Barbara Duncan, IEC Foundation Coordinator

s a contractor, the electrical industry and its impact on your business, community, family, and employees and their families is a top priority. It is for the IEC Foundation also. Just as you want to ensure that the work done by your company exemplifies professionalism and high standards of excellence, the IEC Foundation has the same goals. We may travel down different roads to reach our goals but our destination is the same â&#x20AC;&#x201C; excellence in our industry, quality and capability in the men and women who are making this their career, and distinction among our peers.

for you is quality-trained apprentices who you can confidently put to work knowing they are learning using the best equipment available. IEC training is second-to-none, and with the partnership of the IEC Foundation and its corporate partners, we are committed to keeping it that way. We are dedicated to the success of IEC contractors and to all those who have chosen this industry as their lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work.

A large segment of funding from the IEC Foundation to IEC chapters is in the area of equipment grants. To date, nearly $4 million in equipment for training apprentices has been distributed to IEC chapter training centers across the country. Through the generosity of corporate partners, the IEC Foundation secures hundreds of thousands of dollars in equipment each year that help maintain IEC training centers as worldclass institutions. What that means

We sa lu t e o u r c o r p o r at e pa rt n e r s w h o s e c o n t r ib u t i o n s i n 2014 a r e m u c h a pp r eci at e d!

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

Inside IEC

Going the Extra Mile for IEC Apprentices By Laura Bachman

s an incentive for potential students to enter into Ohio’s Career Technology Centers (CTCs), the Miami Valley Tech Prep Consortium offers students a $3,000 scholarship to be used at Sinclair Community College to continue their chosen profession if they complete their accredited program and have earned a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.25 their junior year and first semester of their senior year of high school. MECA IEC of Dayton lists apprentice classes in the Sinclair Community College course offerings, but all apprentices are trained at MECA IEC of Dayton. In 2013, MECA IEC of Dayton had six apprentices who had graduated from different CTCs who had been awarded these scholarships. Upon graduation they received their scholarship with a letter stating they had to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and then the scholarship would be processed and would be “ready to go” for their academic career at Sinclair Community College. In July 2013, Paul Lawrence, the Chairperson of Electronics & Robotics at Sinclair Community College, was informed of our apprentices winning these scholarships. He confirmed that all scholarship winners must complete their FAFSA. Some students did not have access to computers so they had to come to the MECA IEC of Dayton after work or on the weekends to use our computer to complete their FAFSA online.

Unwilling to accept this decision, I contacted the Miami Valley Consortium Registration Coordinator and explained the situation. He said to resubmit all of the documentation our apprentices received, and ask for further consideration. We received notice that the ruling would not change and that only full-time status students were being awarded use of this scholarship. The new President of the Consortium was contacted requesting further clarification. In December 2013, I received a call from Lawrence stating he had a meeting with the new President, and he deemed it “discrimination” against our IEC apprentices, since we were a work-study program just like others who are using the scholarship at Sinclair Community College. He stated as long as we completed the FAFSA like the other students, he would approve the scholarship use and even make it retroactive for them to be used in the 2013 – 2014 school year. Congratulations to the scholarship winners and to MECA IEC of Dayton for going the extra mile for these apprentices! Laura Bachman is the Executive Director of MECA IEC of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio.

Because the scholarship winners were receiving notices that they had a balance due upon registering for school, the staff contacted Sinclair Community College’s Financial Aid Department to confirm the necessary FAFSA was completed by all of the apprentices. We were then told the students were not eligible for the scholarship because they were only part-time students. Nothing in their packet about the scholarship stated they had to be full-time students. An apprenticeship program is work-study, just like the other CTCs. After contacting Lawrence again about the changed decision, he took the issue to the Board who awarded the scholarships, and they confirmed the part-time student reasoning.

www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

New & improved

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Elastimold® Grounding Device (GAD) Safely Provides Direct 600A, 25kA-Rated Ground Connection The Elastimold® Grounding Device (GAD) from Thomas & Betts provides a direct 600A, 25kA-rated connection with a removable protective cap that allows for increased safety in everyday operations. Series GAD and GADDR are designed for standard C-clamp ground connections, and Series BGAD and BGADDR are specially designed for ball-stud ground connections. The Elastimold® GAD connects to the rear interfaces of 600A series elbow connectors (T-bodies) to ground the circuit. To remain open, the insulated cap with a capacitive test point assures that there is no voltage present. Once the circuit is de-energized, it is grounded through the grounding cable to the system ground. For more information, please visit www.tnb.com or call (800) 238-5000.

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

Legrand® Introduces UL Listed Fed Spec USB Chargers Legrand has announced the availability of its new Pass & Seymour® UL Fed Spec Grade USB duplex receptacle. The new 125V Pass & Seymour® UL Fed Spec Grade USB charger is available in 15 and 20A versions and features an improved overall 3.1A USB charging capability. The combination AC duplex tamper-resistant receptacles contain a patented shutter system which prevents the improper insertion of foreign objects as well as twin 5-volt DC USB charging ports that work with USB 2.0 and 3.0 compatible devices. The strength and durability of the new receptacles makes them capable of withstanding heavy use due to their UL Federal Specification certification. The UL listed Fed Spec USB chargers are specially designed for the commercial market including health care and education facilities, airports, retail, hospitality/lodging, offices, institutional, and multiple dwellings. The Pass & Seymour® UL Fed Spec Grade USB duplex receptacles feature stainless steel auto-ground clips to assure positive ground, zinc-plated ground terminal screw, as well as triple-wipe brass contacts for lasting retention. The screw-pressure-plate back wiring makes installation fast and easy. For more information, please visit www.legrand.us.

Hubbell Building Automation Adds Dimming Capabilities for Popular WASP2 Occupancy and Daylight Sensor Hubbell Lighting has announced that it has added integrated dimming capabilities into its popular Hubbell Building Automation WASP2 Occupancy and Daylight Sensor. Available for both indoor and outdoor applications, the Hubbell Building Automation Dimming WASP is specifically designed to provide 0-10V (Class 1) output for the control of dimmable fixtures. User-controlled dimming presets give you control of illumination levels while the Dimming WASP’s ON/OFF control feature saves energy by turning fixtures off when there is sufficient natural light. Additionally, easy to use dipswitches allow users to set unoccupied and occupied dimming levels. For more information, please visit www.hubbell-automation.com.

www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

New & improved

Columbia Lighting Launches the World’s Most Versatile Enclosed/Gasketed LED Luminaires-LXEM Hubbell Lighting has announced the perfect energy-efficient luminaire for messy industrial environments—Columbia Lighting’s LXEM LED Enclosed and Gasketed Fiberglass Industrial Luminaire. Built with design flexibility in mind, the LXEM is available in a wide range of lumen packages and offered in three different lengths—all in the same family. To learn more, please visit www.columbialighting.com or www.hubbelllighting.com.

DE-OX® Oxide Inhibiting Compound from ILSCO ILSCO’s De-Ox® oxide inhibitor is available in three distinct formulas. The standard non-grit, petroleum based formula is suitable for aluminum and copper connections. It performs very well in keeping moisture and air from penetrating the connection, thus preventing oxidization and therefore prolonging the life and integrity of the connection. All three De-Ox formulas are available in a variety of different packages and sizes including bottles, tubes, and packets. For more information, please visit www.ilsco.com or call (800) 776-9775.

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

Carlon® DraftTight® Old Work Box Offers Greater Energy Efficiency in Remodeled Homes The new Carlon® DraftTight® Old Work Box from Thomas & Betts provides contractors with an easy way to install energy-saving, sealed electrical boxes in existing structures. The Carlon® DraftTight® Old Work Box features a flexible drywall flange and gaskets over cable-entry points to prevent airflow from entering the house, which leads to greater energy efficiency in the building. Additional features of this one-gang box for old work include built-in old work swing clamps that mount directly to the wall without nailing them to studs, in compliance with the 2012 International Efficiency Code Compliance (IECC) residential building energy code and highstrength polycarbonate construction that will not shatter in low temperatures or distort in high temperatures.

ILSCO Offers a Broad Selection of Irreversible Grounding Products As our customer’s needs evolve to meet the demands of the ever changing electrical industry landscape, ILSCO works to exceed those needs. ILSCO offers a broad selection of Irreversible Grounding Products for your ground grid and other grounding requirements. Product offerings include cross grid connectors, taps, cableto-ground rod, cable to rebar, I-beam studs, cast ground plates as well as terminating connectors. ILSCO’s Irreversible Ground compression connectors are made from heavy-duty, strong copper material. They are range taking, UL listed, and suitable for direct burial, including concrete, in most cases. Many are pre-filled with De-Ox® oxide inhibitor to keep moisture out and prevent oxidization of the connection. For more information, please visit www.ilsco.com or call (800) 776-9775.

For more information, visit www.tnb.com or call (800) 238-5000.

www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

code corner

Safety Is the Mission of the National Electrical Code® By David Johnson

On a lovely spring day, a young tenant of an apartment complex we’ll call “Tommy” was playing outdoors rather than sitting in front of the TV playing video games with his siblings and eating junk food. Tommy was playing Frisbee golf around the swimming pool. The disc was thrown over the bushes and landed on an air conditioning (AC) unit. He went to retrieve the disc, happily stepping from one AC unit to the next, being very mindful not to jump too hard onto the metal so that he would not make a dent, carefully and with precision placing one foot at a time on each unit, not knowing the next unit he was going to touch would be his last.

nfortunately, this story does not have a happy ending. The last unit he stepped onto was energized and not grounded according to the National Electrical Code® (NEC). This accident happened so fast, was so preventable, and sadly, so permanent. Tommy’s family remembers that tragic moment every day, week after week, year after year, grieving for the rest of their lives. My heart aches when I think of Tommy. Knowing and applying the latest NEC changes are paramount to the safety and protection of people you know and people you will never know.

Becoming a Code Geek I remember when I first started in the electrical contracting trade, the seasoned wiremen working on the job would say things like, “Because it’s the Code” or

“You have to do it that way, because the Code book says to do it that way.” As an apprentice, I often wondered about this magical code book. When I became a Journeyman electrician, it became apparent that I needed to not only learn what the Code book says but know the changes, have a full understanding of why the changes were made, and understand how to apply the changes. This was critical to my profession. I remember the day a colleague referred to me as a code geek. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine myself as a code geek, but now I am proud of it! Gone are the days of waiting for the latest edition of the NEC books to be released and spending an hour or two speed reading the document to pick up a few changes deemed appropriate for the types of projects one would typically work on. Advancements in electrical research, safety-related work practices and

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

procedures, and new product and system technology have driven extensive changes in the NEC during the past few revision cycles. Trying to remember all the changes during one continuing education class can be overwhelming without prior knowledge of the items being presented. If you truly want to maintain your expertise on NEC requirements and make code change training classes understandable and enjoyable, it would be beneficial to closely track all the steps of the revision process.

The Revision Process Although the NEC® is officially revised once every three years, the revision process is constantly in motion. No matter what stage of the revision process a standard may be in, there will always be an opportunity for you to take part in it, thus improving your knowledge of the Code and your expertise in the electrical contracting field. The NEC® Code Making Panels meet twice during a code revision cycle to act on Change Proposals (now called Public Inputs) submitted by individuals representing all sectors of the electrical community. Studying the Public Inputs will give you a quick look of what part of the NEC® is likely to change in the next edition and help you to better understand why the change is being considered. Keeping up with the changes to the Code is essential to your career as a professional craftsman—an electrician and an electrical contractor. The mission of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the NEC® can be found in Section 90.1, which states: The purpose of this Code is the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity. Understanding the changes to the Code and the effect on the industry after each and every update can help secure construction projects for your employees, and provide safe installations for the consumer. Safety is our ethical and moral obligation. David Johnson is Executive Director of the IEC CenTex chapter in Austin, Texas. He is also IEC’s Principal representative on Code Making Panel 19.

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www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

Safety corner

Water vs. Electricity: Important Considerations for Safety By Thomas Domitrovich, P.E.

ater at the right place at the right time sustains life; water at the wrong place and the wrong time can become a nightmare. We need water to survive, but on the other hand, water can be quite dangerous and create unsafe conditions especially where electricity is involved. An important part of any design addresses and manages water. Builders work to ensure water does not intrude into the structure and their fight rages on many fronts; some are as obvious as dealing with rainwater through proper roof structures and a gutter system that removes the rainwater from the structure. Other less obvious fronts include preventing water intrusion from ground springs. Managing the elements of nature is important for safety as water intrusion can cause mold, rust, and other similar types of degradation that also may not be received well by electrical equipment. Mixing water and electrical equipment can have devastating results for safety. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth a probe on this topic to get you and your team in the game and ensure safety is not compromised on your next project. The combination of water and electricity is commonly associated with electrocution and so the National Electrical CodeÂŽ (NEC) and other codes and standards work to prevent the loss of life through implementation of many different types of solutions, one of which includes ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). But water

can take a toll on electrical equipment itself. Whether it be intrusion of massive amounts of water due to storms, floods, or similar events or prolonged exposure of electrical equipment to smaller amounts of water, both can be very dangerous for electrical systems. Minerals and other contaminants can also be found within the water molecules and can present additional concerns even after the water evaporates away. As electrical professionals we need to understand more about this topic of electrical equipment and water and how to deal with the aftermath of a problem that causes these two to meet.

Wet, Damp, and Dry Locations When applying products it is important to understand in which environment they will be applied. The NEC helps us with this by defining some important terms and referencing these terms when providing installation requirements. The key terms defined in the NEC include the following: 4 Location, Damp. Locations protected from weather and not subject to saturation with water or other liquids but subject to moderate degrees of moisture. Accompanying this definition is an informational note adding more

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

clarification; damp locations may be difficult to spot. The informational note offers examples of damp locations which include partially protected locations under canopies, marquees, roofed open porches, and like locations. Also mentioned are interior locations subject to moderate degrees of moisture, such as some basements, barns, and coldstorage warehouses. Identifying a damp location may not be as black and white as you may think. Many situations present themselves that you may think are dry locations but in fact are damp. 4 Location, Dry. A location not normally subject to dampness or wetness. A location classified as dry may be temporarily subject to dampness or wetness, as in the case of a building under construction. 4 Location, Wet. Installations underground or in concrete slabs or masonry in direct contact with the earth; in locations subject to saturation with water or other liquids, such as vehicle washing areas; and in unprotected locations exposed to weather. I have received many questions focused on situations surrounding flooding where electrical equipment was in a flood or water was poured directly through the equipment. The hard questions though surround those less obvious situations such as those where equipment is found with beads of water in and on sensitive

areas. Many take it upon themselves to de-energize and dry the equipment after fixing the water intrusion issues. The equipment may appear to be perfectly fine when in reality problems could be hidden. Drops of water may include contaminants that over time degrade the equipment. The degradation may occur well out of eyesight and well after the perpetrator has left the scene.

Identifying the Hazards Protecting electrical equipment from water damage begins well before installation. Storage of your equipment before installation is just as important. Just because a product that has been sitting in water has never been installed does not mean the water did not perform or start a process that will result in damage. Building codes provide installation requirements that help, but it is advisable to train your eye to think out of the box and observe areas that could be problematic later. Design them out; address them early. Look for any potential water source from the obvious to the not so obvious. The following should kick start your thought process. 4 Water pipes. It doesn’t take the presence of a fitting such as an elbow or union or similar to present the hazard to your equipment. A water pipe can be damaged in and around your equipment

presenting the hazard. Also, the less obvious but probably more possible issue is when a leak from a distant portion of the pipe finds water following the pipe to where it eventually drips or pours onto electrical equipment. 4 Windows. Less obvious sources of water may be areas around windows that may become compromised and eventually let rainwater or other sources of water in. Also, windows may be opened and possibly left open. 4 Activities. Hose down or similar areas can present a problem long after the installation. What occurs in that area where electrical equipment is located may not be as obvious as when you are installing equipment within a car wash. Areas like garages and those in and around farm animals can be locations where hose down occurs. Awareness of the surroundings and purpose of the facilities is important. 4 Humidity. A much less obvious source of water is presented through the presence of humidity. An example that the NEC has recently addressed includes those areas where conduit travels from outside of the structure to the equipment inside of the structure. Changes in temperature can create condensation, a very harmful longterm condition for electrical equipment. A word about humidity as this is a topic that could become one of those questionable gray areas. Electrical products

have environmental specifications, and humidity is one of those criteria. Percent relative humidity is important and product technical specifications will specify the maximum humidity permitted as well as “noncondensing” environments. Condensation can be a slow killer as not only the water but also the minerals, particles, and contaminants that may be present in the water cause problems over the long term. Equipment instructions and specifications may be very forthright with this important information. For example, molded-case circuit breakers are typically suited for operation in 0 to 95 percent noncondensing humidity environments. Electronic equipment on the other hand may have lower limits. Metering equipment from one manufacturer specifies a 5 to 95 percent noncondensing requirement at 50oC. Other equipment specifies a 10 to 80 percent noncondensing environment. Installing as per manufacturer instructions is important. Requirements for equipment will vary so you have to read and understand what the manufacturer requires. In some cases, too little humidity can be harmful as well. In environments with very low humidity, static electricity becomes a problem, and in areas with sensitive electronics, this can be devastating. The bottom line in all of this discussion is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions very closely. Continued on page 40 >

www.ieci.org | March 2014 | Insights Magazine

Safety corner < Continued from page 39

Planning and Preparation All accidents cannot be avoided but planning and preparation can minimize their occurrence or minimize their impact. Codes and standards are a great place to start in your journey, but again, we can’t forget about manufacturer’s instructions. Equipment is available to help protect your electrical equipment. The NEC provides some definitions and examples of steps that can be taken. Raintight and rainproof equipment are two examples. The NEC defines raintight as, “Constructed or protected so that exposure to a beating rain will not result in the entrance of water under specified test conditions.” Rainproof on the other hand is defined as, “Constructed, protected, or treated so as to prevent rain from interfering with the successful operation of the apparatus under specified test conditions.” There is a subtle but important difference between these two definitions. Another term defined by the NEC is watertight. Watertight equipment is that which is, “Constructed so that moisture will not enter the enclosure under specified test conditions.” The test conditions are a part of the UL standards for the products in question. Always make sure the product fits the application. The UL standard for enclosures most pertinent to these discussions is UL 50E, “Enclosures for Electrical Equipment, Environmental Considerations,” as it is this standard that establishes the test criteria for the various types of enclosures including Types 1, 2, 3, 3R, 3S, 4, 4X, 5, 6, 6P, 12, 12K, and 13. Each enclosure type provides varying levels of protection to the electrical equipment within. In addition, product standards will include environmental tests that will be found in their respective UL product standards. This all translates into applying the product as per the manufacturer instructions and as per the NEC. The UL White Book provides help as well in understanding the proper application of products. There are various category codes within the White Book

but category code BGUZ is a great place to start as it covers “Boxes, Junction and Pull” and includes a good discussion on the enclosure type ratings. Table 110.28 of NEC 2014 helps in the selection and application of enclosures. Outdoor and indoor applications are addressed as are such hazards as hosedown, submersion (both temporary and prolonged), rain, snow, sleet, and splashing when it comes to water and moisture. The NEC does its part by providing installation guidance such as that included in Section 230.54, “Overhead Service Locations” where in Section 230.54(G) a requirement to ensure water will not enter service raceway or equipment is present. The NEC includes many areas with specific requirements for products installed in dry, wet, and damp locations. Be careful to not modify equipment through drilling of holes or other similar activities as you may void the UL Listing and weather resistant nature of the product being modified. Consult the manufacture before making any field modifications.

When Things Go Wrong We can plan and design great systems but things can go wrong; water and electrical equipment can and eventually probably will meet. Depending upon the situation, there may be a strong desire or need to energize equipment soon after the event occurs. Electrical equipment that has been exposed to water outside of its rating and listing can be very dangerous. Every precaution should be taken to ensure safe installations. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has a document to help determine how to evaluate electrical equipment that has been exposed to water through flooding, firefighting activities, hurricanes, etc. This document, “Evaluating Water-Damaged Electrical Equipment,” targets designers, installers, inspectors, and suppliers of electrical products. This is a free reference available from the NEMA web site. To download it, go to http://www.nema. org/Standards/Pages/Evaluating-WaterDamaged-Electrical-Equipment.aspx.

Insights Magazine | March 2014 | www.ieci.org

When addressing concerns with electrical equipment that have experienced exposure to water, don’t do it alone; get the manufacturer involved up front to ensure the right decisions are made and the right resources are involved. Some Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL) offer services to evaluate equipment in the field before energizing. Leverage your resources. The last thing you want to happen after surviving a hurricane or similar disaster is to needlessly risk lives energizing water-damaged equipment. The above is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to addressing water in and around electrical installations. It should be enough to start your wheels turning and begin to train your eye to prevent and deal with water issues as they arise. As always, keep safety at the top of your list and ensure you and those around you live to see another day. Thomas Domitrovich, P.E., is a National Application Engineer with IEC National Platinum Industry Partner Eaton Corporation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He has more than 20 years of experience as an Electrical Engineer and is a LEED Accredited Professional. Domitrovich is active in various trade organizations on various levels with IEC, the International Association of Electrical Inspectors, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), the National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). He is involved with and chairs various committees for NEMA and IEEE and is an alternate member on NFPA 73. He is very active in the stateby-state adoption process of NFPA 70, working closely with review committees and other key organizations in this effort.

Electrical and Systems Training Series

Independent Electrical contractors

The Electrical and Systems Training Series (ESTS) consists of various refresher courses for experienced electricians. These are stand-alone 40-hour courses where an individual does not have to complete every ESTS course offering. With the development of the ESTS courses, the recently revamped Professional Electricians Program (PEP) will consist of nine of the proposed ESTS courses. PEP will provide an alternative path for those who have significant electrical experience but need formal classroom knowledge without having to complete the four-year Electrical Apprenticeship Program.

available courses Theory I (100)* Theory II (200)* Motor Controls I (100)* Moto Controls II (200)* Fire Alarm: NFPA 72-2007 and 72-2010

coming soon

Code I (100)*

summer 2014

Leadership I (100)*

summer 2014

Fire Alarm: NFPA 72-2013

October 2014

Blueprint I (100)*

October 2014

Code II (200)*

October 2014

Code III (300)*

march 2015

*Required PEP Coursework

Visit www.ieci.org for more information

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