Independent Electrical Contractors
IEC Membership
IEC membership is an investment in your company’s future. Apprentice training, leadership development, advice on running your business, and the support of a nationwide network of like-minded professionals are just a few of the benefits you will enjoy as an IEC member.
Membership is conducted through IEC chapters. In addition to the benefits listed below, each IEC chapter has its own local benefits.
To join IEC, contact your local chapter or complete the click “Join Now” and we will route you to the appropriate IEC Chapter.
National Member Benefits
Training and Education
Participate in the world-class four-year Electrical Apprenticeship Program to develop qualified and productive employees. The program is registered through the U.S. Department of Labor
Apprentices have access up to 46 college credit hours available through the American Council on Education.
Take advantage of myelectricalcareer.com which drives thousands of new workers into the electrical and systems contracting industry each year.
Access IEC’s cutting-edge management education sessions at various annual industry events.
Learn with IEC webinars on the latest topics impacting electrical contracting businesses.
Learn with the IEC Training Advantage, which offers comprehensive programs and resources covering various aspects of the electrical industry. Gain Continuing Education (CPE) credits, participate in the Electrical Systems Training Series (ESTS), and advance through the Professional Electricians Program (PEP). Take advantage of the New Worker Program modules and specialized topics like limited energy and electric vehicle charging stations.
Forums
IEC forums meet across the U.S. and enable groups of non-competing contractors to share best practices confidentially.
IEC Forum Groups are open to electrical contractor principals as an exclusive IEC member benefit. Forums consist of 5-10 IEC member companies that meet regularly to discuss topics of business and personal interest. Members are from different geographic areas and have similar business profiles.
To join a Forum group, email us at communications@ieci.org to get started today.
The most valuable benefit our company derives from our Forum is learning the trials and tribulations of other contractors and being able to share information in a non-competitive market.
Codes & Safety
- Available to IEC members only, the IEC Safety Manual is a must-have resource that provides basic information on maintaining a safe work environment on the jobsite. You may use this valuable professional advice as a guideline, or in addition to your own company specific safety manual. (a $150 value)
- Order the IEC Jobsite Safety Handbook, a pocket-sized, 120-page reference manual that clearly defines and explains current safety regulations and best practices. With sections reviewing OSHA inspections, arc flash protection, lockout procedures, fire prevention, and much more, the IEC Jobsite Safety Handbook is an invaluable resource for your team.
- IEC represents the industry in development of the National Electrical Code (NEC); National Electrical Safety Code; NFPA 70E Electrical Safety In the Workplace, NEMA, UL, and various regional and national building code conferences.
Discounts and Perks
- IEC is committed to supporting members’ businesses to bolster their bottom lines. Members can take advantage of incentive programs and member-only discounts to save money. Reduce your expenses with services that help your business thrive. Check out the full listing.
- Programs are available such as the the Home Depot Member Incentive Programs where members receive 2% cash back on annual purchases by enrolling.
Newsletters and Industry Trends
- Learn about emerging trends through IEC Insights magazine.
- Receive electronic newsletters such as IECX and Capitol Connection that keep you current on industry-related issues.
- Members receive IEC’s Insights magazine to stay informed on industry trends, business strategies, and technical updates. Learn from others’ successes and discover ideas to incorporate into your own business growth.
- Receive electronic newsletters that keep you current on industry-related issues and upcoming events.
Events
Grow your business with IEC’s annual event SPARK , which provides opportunities for thousands of industry professionals to share ideas, analyze industry trends, and attend management & industry-related programs. Receive recognition for excellent work through the IEC National Awards programs during the event.
Engage at the IEC Policy Conference (Washington, D.C.) which provides members with a direct voice to law makers on legislative and regulatory issues that affect your business and the greater electrical industry.
Enhance your strength at IEC Business Summit. Engage in educational programs for electrical contractors on business strategies and economic forecasts, and take part in setting the strategic direction of IEC.
Advocacy
- Gain knowledge of the issues affecting the merit shop electrical contracting Industry, like labor relations and workforce development through IEC’s communications and advocacy announcements.
- Raise awareness of merit shop issues by participating in the Freedom Fund and IEC PAC.
- Keep informed on legislative and regulatory topics that affect the merit shop industry. Participate in IEC Action Alerts to make your voice heard.
Leadership Opportunities
The IEC Instructor Training and Certification Program is tailored to provide technically qualified electricians and subject matter experts with the basic knowledge they need to succeed as apprenticeship instructors, focusing on adult style learning and instruction. This program provides an IEC instructor the education philosophy needed to instruct their apprentice, while sharing their knowledge of the electrical industry. These interactive online courses include easily accessible targeted modules, an interactive user interface, and reading assignments.
This training made me realize that I am not the only instructor that encounters difficulties in the classroom. It has given me more confidence with making decisions and instructing students with different levels of ability.
The IEC Instructor Training and Certification Program is an exciting initiative that represents IEC’s continuing commitment to providing the highest quality training for our members and apprentices.
The Program
Those who successfully complete the required training, provide evidence of required levels of field and classroom experience, and demonstrate competency in specified areas will be designated as certified IEC Instructors.
This program addresses the U.S. Department of Labor rule which requires instructors to be trained on how to teach adult learners through various styles and methods.
The three-level program is designed to maximize each instructor’s growth by building on the skills taught in the previous lessons. All instructors must have at least a year of teaching between each level. To become an IEC apprenticeship instructor, training must be completed sequentially.
*All applications must be completed and signed by the instructor’s Chapter Executive Director or Training Director prior to registering.
Level I
Level I introduces IEC’s philosophy, apprenticeship program, curriculum resources, and instructional methods through video and interactive activities. The instructor must have a year of teaching after completing Level I before moving on to the Level II course.
Level II
Level II provides instructors with hands-on training in developing and implementing a lesson plan with guidance and input from IEC teaching professionals. Upon completion of the Level II modules, an endorsement in one or more specific courses must be administered. The instructor’s endorsement(s) must be identified on the application in order to provide him or her with the correct written exam. The purpose of the endorsement exam is to test instructors’ knowledge in the area(s) in which they teach. This exam will be administered online through the CMS system.
Level III
Level III (Master Instructor) involves the instructors mentoring other instructors. Level III provides excellent hands-on experience, along with valuable feedback from colleagues and mentees.
Questions? Contact communications@ieci.org
