Session: Ignite Your Leadership Potential

Time: 1:45 PM - 3:00 PM

Session Description: Retired Lieutenant Colonel Oakland McCulloch has 40 + years of leadership experience, in Combat, Peacekeeping Operations, Disaster Relief and in the Boardroom. His "Ignite Your Leadership Potential" talk, and book, is based on his wealth of knowledge and lessons learned during his career as a leader. Oak highlights leadership principles that will benefit today's leaders and inspire the leaders of tomorrow. There is NO discussion of theory in this talk. We will discuss what every leader can do every day to improve their leadership skills and abilities. We will examine what it takes to become the leader you were meant to be – a Servant Leader. In this talk we will cover the following topics for leaders:

• What it means to be a Servant Leader
• How to establish a Winning Culture
• How to build Effective and Efficient Teams
• How to avoid the Evils of Micromanagement
• What is and how to build 360-Degree Trust
• How to become a better and Decisive Decision Maker
• The importance of a Professional and Leadership Development Program
• The importance of Getting Results

Speaker: Retired Lieutenant Colonel Oakland McCulloch

Bio: Retired Lieutenant Colonel Oakland McCulloch is an internationally recognized keynote speaker and the author of the 2021 release, “Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be”. Both his leadership talk, and his book are based on his 40+ years of leadership experience in combat, peacekeeping operations, disaster relief operations and in the board room. Oak highlights principles that will benefit today’s leaders and inspire the leaders of tomorrow, in any profession and at any level of leadership.

Session: Securing the Current: Digital Marketing and Cybersecurity Essentials for IEC Members

Time: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM

Session Description: Join us for an exclusive presentation tailored specifically for IEC Members to enhance their cybersecurity knowledge.

In today's digital age, cybersecurity is paramount, even in the electrical industry. This workshop will cover essential topics ranging from understanding cybersecurity threats to practical strategies for securing digital assets, protecting customer data, and ensuring the integrity of IoT devices. Participants will gain insights into the latest cybersecurity best practices and learn how to mitigate risks effectively. Don't miss this opportunity to safeguard your business and elevate your cybersecurity posture!

Speakers: Manoj Tandon, Marilyn Akers Stansbury, Denise Sims

Session: Innovative Workforce Solutions

Time: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM

Session Description: We all know finding and keeping qualified electrical workers is not only an electrical contractor's number one issue but also limits a contractor's growth. We've all been to sessions promoting respecting, appreciating, and assuring the right fit, but what more can you do after that? It is no longer acceptable to place a job ad on Indeed, utilize your current workforce, or throw more money at your workers. In this session, a panel of experts will share specific tactics they have used to recruit and keep employees. From finely tuned software to one-on-one tactics to offering the correct type of benefits, this session will provide ideas, solutions, and an opportunity to build and keep your workforce.

Speakers: 

• Niel Dawson, IEC Atlanta/GA - Chapter & Employer Workforce Services
• Hance Joiner, IEC Georgia Workforce Development Specialist​
• Alex Stewart, Buildforce/Ladder - Construction Recruiting on Autopilot​
• Linda Smith, BenSource - Employee Benefits for Recruitment & Retention

Session: Unlocking IEC’s Value for Your Business

Time: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Session Description: Discover how IEC membership can save time, reduce costs, and support your business growth throughout the year. This session highlights the full range of IEC resources, including best practice forums, exclusive discounts, and workforce development tools designed to address labor needs. You’ll gain an understanding into membership perks, the importance of engaging in public policy, and opportunities for young professionals to build successful careers in the electrical industry. Connect with other members to build valuable relationships that can benefit your business long after the session ends.

Speaker: Amy Biedenharn | Company: IEC National | Title: Senior Director, Membership & Chapters.

Bio: Amy Biedenharn serves as the Membership & Chapter Senior Director with IEC National, where she focuses on building community engagement, fostering member connections, and creating learning opportunities tailored to the needs of the merit shop electrical contracting industry. Amy collaborates closely with IEC Chapters to deliver resources and shared learning experiences, ensuring members can fully leverage the benefits of IEC programs. With extensive experience supporting chapters and driving member engagement across various associations, Amy dedicates herself to helping independent electrical contractors grow and succeed.

Session: Joining the AI movement; benefit from this technology today

Time: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Session Description: Join MCA for this informative and actionable educational session focused on current tools and current practices to allow your business to benefit from the power of AI. In this session we will present some background and history of AI applications in Construction and also tools that are available now to support Electrical contractors who wish to engage AI based information in their operations. Our session will include discussion on these topics, as well as demonstration of the AI power available using DCI Construction. We will close with an introduction to collaborative forums and symposiums specifically aimed at owners / executives in the electrical construction industry, and opportunities for lower-level manager and supervisor engagement in symposiums where they can stay on track with technology advancements.

Speaker: Phil Nimmo | Company: MCA, Inc. | Title: Vice President of Business Development

Bio: Phil Nimmo has held many positions within MCA and is currently the VP of Business Development. Phil has a B.S. Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University as well as an MBA Technology Management from University of Phoenix. With MCA since 1999 he has conducted research projects for several industries, has lead numerous projects to help clients implement the research results effectively incorporating these into their businesses, and participated in publication of both research and case study results. Additionally, he has Owned and Operated several small businesses, lead operations for a large multi-state / multi-location distributor focused on serving the needs of contractors. Phil has also lead operations and training departments for certificated air carriers, Managed digital controls and mechanical equipment installations, and is accomplished in Automotive advanced product engineering, receiving both US and European patents for vehicle traction control and antilock brake systems.

Session: AI Forecast: Top Trends for Maximum Impact

Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Session Description: Artificial intelligence (AI) is on a remarkable growth trajectory, poised to reach $407 billion by 2027. Despite this promising outlook, the construction industry lacks the knowledge and resources to effectively utilize AI applications for maximum impact.

In this session, we will discuss current and future AI trends that offer the most potential in the construction industry, along with real-world use cases demonstrating AI's positive impact on project timelines, cost management, productivity, and overall business growth. Furthermore, they will provide actionable tips for evaluating different AI-powered solutions, ensuring that participants are equipped with the knowledge to choose the right solution for their organization.

Speaker: Modupe Akinnawonu | Company: Siteline | Title: Senior Product Manager

Bio: Modupe Akinnawonu is the Senior Product Manager at Siteline, the only pay app and lien waiver management software built for trade contractors. Previously, she worked in product management at Peloton and The New York Times. She has spent the last two years living and breathing construction finance and has loved bringing her experience building technology to the industry. Modupe has a BA in History and an MA in Economics from New York University and an MBA from Stanford University. She's a CFMA New York City chapter member and lives in Brooklyn.

Session:Insurance Claims & Coverages-Managing Your Risk

Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Session Description: You have insurance, but are you covered? Insurance is complex and can be confusing. This discussion focuses on common coverage concerns and factors that affect business insurance premiums. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how they can take control of their insurance and risk management programs, which in turn may help reduce future costs.

Speaker: Patrick Cunningham | Company: Federated Insurance | Title: National Account Executive

Bio: Patrick Cunningham is a National Account Executive in the Association Risk Management Services department of Federated Insurance. Patrick is responsible for managing Federated’s national association and buying group partners.

Since 1998, Pat has spent his entire career working in the marketing areas of Federated Insurance where he was a successful Marketing Representative, Account Executive- ARMS, District Marketing Manager, and Senior Marketing Representative. Pat earned the trust of hundreds of business owners in the areas of safety, risk, and business management by focusing on value, service, and relationships. Pat was awarded membership into Federated’s Chairman’s Council, Big Hitter Club, Monthly Leadership Council, and Life and Disability Income Contest winner. He also participated in various company Focus Meetings and workshops, “Street-Talk” seminars, Risk Management Academy seminars, and pilot programs.

A native of Kansas City, MO and an alum of the University of Central Missouri with a bachelor’s in business management, Patrick and his wife are the proud parents of three daughters and two grandchildren.

Session: 5 Stones For Slaying Giants - Critical Success Factors For Business and Life

Time: 1:45 PM - 2:45 PM

Session Description: 5 Stones For Slaying Giant is a riveting keynote presentation meticulously crafted to empower individuals in mastering the delicate art of work-life balance. With a focus on the five foundational pillars of Passion, Excellence, Vision, Value, and Confidence, this session is a beacon of inspiration, illuminating pathways to personal and professional fulfillment.

Incorporating captivating storytelling, dynamic group discussions, and introspective exercises, participants embark on a transformative journey, discovering practical tools to navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. Each stone—Passion, Excellence, Vision, Value, and Confidence—is not merely discussed but deeply explored, offering profound insights and actionable strategies for immediate implementation.

Who could resist the allure of embracing heightened Passion, pursuing unwavering Excellence, fostering Visionary leadership, delivering unparalleled Value, and exuding unshakable Confidence?

This presentation transcends boundaries, resonating with individuals from all walks of life and empowering them to confront obstacles head-on, armed with newfound clarity and determination.

Whether in the boardroom or the living room, the principles unveiled in this session serve as a compass, guiding individuals towards their fullest potential and most fulfilling existence.

Speaker:  Curt Tueffert | Company: DXP | Title: VP of Sales Development

Bio: Curt is also a previous speaker for the IEC and has been invited back several times due to his ability to deliver world class content with high energy and a touch of humor. Curt as also written several articles for the IEC publications.

Curt won the Stevie award for Sales Content Development a few years ago and has been a regular adjunct professor at the University of Houston where he teaches business communication on the Master’s level and Sales/Marketing on the undergraduate track.

As the VP of Sales Development for DXP, a Houston based Industrial Distributor, Curt brings real world application to the electrical contractor as well as the IEC staff. Curt has spoken several items for the IEC, and has a consistent record of high audience approval.

Curt is the author of 5 Stones For Slaying Giants, 201 Sales Motivators and is the contributing author for SPEAK, an anthology written by the National Speakers Association.

Session:The National Electrical Code® - Past, Present, and Future

Time: 1:45 PM - 2:45 PM

Session Description: This session will provide a comprehensive review of the complete history of the National Electrical Code® (NEC), including the state of the electroindustry before the publication of the NEC, the origin and early development of the NEC, the size, style, format, and significant improvements to the 56 editions to the code, the current state of the NEC with regard to development, adoption, and enforcement, the industry trends driving changes to the NEC, and the potential future of the NEC. Original printed editions, supplements, and reprints will be displayed for attendees to review and explore.

Speaker: Bryan P. Holland, MCP, CStd. | Company: National Electrical Manufacturers Association | Title: Managing Director, Technical Field Representatives

Bio: Bryan Holland is the Managing Director of the Technical Field Representatives Program at the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). He currently holds forty-one ICC certifications including Master Code Professional, Electrical Code Specialist, and Energy Code Specialist. He also holds twenty-six FEMA certifications and is a Certified Standards Professional (CStd) by the Society of Standards Professionals. Bryan represents NEMA as a voting principal on several NPFA, ICC, and IEC technical committees. He lives in the state of Florida and is a licensed Building Code Administrator, Plans Examiner, and Inspector. Bryan is a member of the AFAA, ECF, IAEI, ICC, NFPA and SES.

Session: High Impact Communication For Maximum Leadership Development - Providing Feedback and Coaching In Your Daily Role As Leader

Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Session Description: The Art and Science Of Great Leadership Is Communication. The leader’s role as coach, mentor, manager, and employer is influenced, positive or negative, by their communication. What if there is more to learn about communication? What is there are new ideas, fresh approaches, and state of the art tools to increase the chance that communication is heard and will be acted upon?

Ever have a conversation where the opinions are strong, the stakes are high and the emotions are on edge? This workshop will chart a path to gaining better critical conversation successes using the fresh tools to move from confusion to clarity.

For many leaders, knowing the latest trends and techniques can assist them in improving their communication, casting a clearer vision, and moving projects rapidly to their completion.

Speaker: Curt Tueffert | Company: DXP | Title: VP of Sales Development

Bio: Curt is also a previous speaker for the IEC and has been invited back several times due to his ability to deliver world class content with high energy and a touch of humor. Curt as also written several articles for the IEC publications.

Curt won the Stevie award for Sales Content Development a few years ago and has been a regular adjunct professor at the University of Houston where he teaches business communication on the Master’s level and Sales/Marketing on the undergraduate track.

As the VP of Sales Development for DXP, a Houston based Industrial Distributor, Curt brings real world application to the electrical contractor as well as the IEC staff. Curt has spoken several items for the IEC, and has a consistent record of high audience approval.

Session: Emerging Leaders Industry Impact Project: Driving Recruitment in the Electrical Industry

Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Session Description: Join us for an insightful presentation from IEC's 2024 Emerging Leaders as they share the outcomes of their Industry Impact Project, focused on resolving the electrical industry's skilled labor gap by finding tomorrow's electricians and empowering them today. This session will showcase the results of their workforce development efforts and provide an inside look into the collaborative journey of the 14 cohort members during their 6-month program. Participants will also reflect on the valuable lessons learned and share best practices for driving meaningful change in the industry. Whether you're an aspiring leader looking to join the program or a seasoned professional, consider joining to learn more about the impact of IEC’s Emerging Leaders program.

Speaker: IEC Emerging Leaders Cohort

Session:Advertising, Interviewing and Retention the Key to Lowering your Turnover

Time: 9:15 AM - 10: 15 AM

Session Description: This session will discuss the constant changing advertising avenues such as social media and advertising boards. Hiring has gotten tougher and finding the right applicant almost impossible. Learn how to sell your business to applicants. Hiring the right employees is the easiest ways to cut down on your turnover. This session will include an open discussion on how your industry finds the right employees.

Speaker: Wendy Christie | Company: EmployerESource | Title:Owner/Developer

Bio: Wendy Christie owner and developer of EmployerESource has over 20 years of experience in the area of employee relations. EmployerESource is a software program that develops a company handbook by company requirements, state law, federal law and industry practices. This gives Wendy the opportunity to have read all 50 state laws and worked in countless industries. Wendy has handled over 100 different employee relations investigations. As a human resource consultant, she has helped countless companies develop legally compliant employee handbooks and documentation.

Wendy has developed 3rd Party Reporting. This provides employees with a 3rd party to report workplace disputes, providing company with an insurance policy against complaints and lawsuits. EmployerESource is the first line of defense in EEOC complaints and lawsuits.

Wendy has authored a number of articles in several industries on hiring practices, embezzlement, legally compliant employment practices and dress codes for today's workplace culture.

Session: The Top 10 Employment Law Mistakes Most Commonly Made by Construction Contractors (and how to avoid them!)

Time: 9:15 AM - 10: 15 AM

Session Description: This presentation will address the top employment law mistakes made by construction contractors in the construction industry. Attendees will learn steps they can take to minimize potential liability for employment law matters. Attendees will learn how best to ensure a former employee is prohibited from bringing claims against the company, and how to avoid other common traps in the employment law arena. Issues to be addressed include, but are not limited to, proper classification of independent contractors, severance pay, documenting disciplinary actions, the importance of written job descriptions, the importance of a discrimination and harassment policy, and common wage and hour mistakes such as those made regarding travel pay.

Speaker: Philip Siegel | Company: Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel | Title: Partner and Shareholder

Bio: Philip J. Siegel, Esq., is a partner and shareholder with the firm of Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel. Philip attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan graduating with distinction from the School of Business Administration where he earned his B.B.A. Mr. Siegel received his law degree from Emory University School of Law. He worked in the public accounting industry as a state and local tax consultant for two years prior to commencing his career as a construction litigation and labor/employment attorney.

Mr. Siegel’s practice focuses primarily in the areas of labor/employment law, including defense of OSHA citations, immigration compliance assistance, Davis-Bacon Act consulting, contract consulting, and construction litigation, including representation of general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers, all on a national basis.

Session: Killer Contract Clauses

Time: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Session Description: This session will discuss the top 10-15 contract clauses that construction contractors commonly face when presented with a contract from a general contractor or owner. We will discuss the legal consequences of these clauses. We will also discuss how to revise these clauses so that they are more equitable for the construction contractor.

Speaker: Philip Siegel  | Company: Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel | Title: Partner and Shareholder

Bio: Philip J. Siegel, Esq., is a partner and shareholder with the firm of Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel. Philip attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan graduating with distinction from the School of Business Administration where he earned his B.B.A. Mr. Siegel received his law degree from Emory University School of Law. He worked in the public accounting industry as a state and local tax consultant for two years prior to commencing his career as a construction litigation and labor/employment attorney.

Mr. Siegel’s practice focuses primarily in the areas of labor/employment law, including defense of OSHA citations, immigration compliance assistance, Davis-Bacon Act consulting, contract consulting, and construction litigation, including representation of general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers, all on a national basis.

Session: Policies, Practices & Protection. Does your Handbook have what it takes?

Time: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Session Description: Employee handbooks are expensive for employers to develop and maintain. This session will discuss the laws, regulations, benefits and downfalls of having an employee handbook. Some courts interpret language in employee handbooks as a binding contract, so the class also covers how to avoid any unconditional promises of employment. Discuss how to make sure your handbook covers a variety of important business practices but also how to avoid an “unmanageable” handbook. The wrong employee handbook can expose you to unnecessary risks and costly mistakes this class will help you reduce those risks.

Speaker: Wendy Christie  | Company: EmployerESource | Title: Owner/Developer

Bio: Wendy Christie owner and developer of EmployerESource has over 20 years of experience in the area of employee relations. EmployerESource is a software program that develops a company handbook by company requirements, state law, federal law and industry practices. This gives Wendy the opportunity to have read all 50 state laws and worked in countless industries. Wendy has handled over 100 different employee relations investigations. As a human resource consultant, she has helped countless companies develop legally compliant employee handbooks and documentation.

Wendy has developed 3rd Party Reporting. This provides employees with a 3rd party to report workplace disputes, providing company with an insurance policy against complaints and lawsuits. EmployerESource is the first line of defense in EEOC complaints and lawsuits.

Wendy has authored a number of articles in several industries on hiring practices, embezzlement, legally compliant employment practices and dress codes for today's workplace culture.

Session: Closing Keynote: Donald R. Leavenes, Ph.D

Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Speaker: Donald R. Leavens, Ph.D | Company: National Electrical Manufacturers Association | Title: Senior Vice President and Chief Economist

Bio: Donald R. Leavens, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association’s Senior Vice President and Chief Economist, holds a Ph.D. in economics from George Mason University.  He also received a master’s degree in economics from Virginia Tech and a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Virginia. 

At NEMA, he heads Business Intelligence, which provides econometric and scenario modeling, macroeconomic forecasting, market research, economic analysis, and industry data collection services to a wide range of businesses including many of the world’s largest companies. He is a frequent speaker at industry and company events where he typically presents an electroindustry economic outlook highlighting end market trends and forecasts for key market drivers.  

Prior to joining NEMA, he served as Director Tax Policy Research for the National Association of Realtors and Director Federal Budget Policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and has held academic appointments at George Mason University and Virginia Tech. He has also written articles on public choice and public finance economics that have appeared in academic journals and has contributed articles to several books.  In addition, he has served as a member of the Governor of Virginia’s Advisory Board of Economists.