Cybersecurity for Connected Buildings

Dates & Times:
Session Type:

Trade Show Education: Technology & Innovation

Location

Show Floor (Level 3)

Description

As IT and OT systems converge and connected devices become more widespread, contractors face growing cybersecurity risks, even in traditional electrical installations like smart load centers. This panel will explore the evolving cybersecurity demands in connected buildings and discuss how the industry is preparing the workforce to meet these new challenges.

Speakers

  • Joseph Weyel Speaker Headshot | NECA Convention

    Joseph Weyel

    CDI Technology Services

    Joseph Weyel brings more than 25 years of project management and construction experience to the CDI team.  Having grown up in the electrical and telecommunications industry in San Antonio, he has participated in the completion of a number of iconic projects throughout the region.  Earning his BICSI Registered Communications Distribution Designer credential in 2009, Mr. Weyel excels in the design and installation of structured cabling systems and data center solutions, overseeing the implementation of designs through completion.

    Mr. Weyel is responsible for coordinating the efforts of our team in bringing quality and efficient solutions to our customers while maintaining a progressive business model geared towards growth and diversity.   His knowledge and deep appreciation for the rich history of the electrical and construction industries, enables him to educate new generations of technicians and management on a successful path into the future.

  • Patrick Gorham Speaker Headshot | NECA Convention

    Patrick Gorham

    Rosendin Electric

    Patrick Gorham has been in the electrical industry for 30 years and is currently the Transportation Area Superintendent for Rosendin Electric. He has worked in the Educational, Health Care, Entertainment, Sporting Venue, Aerospace, Transportation and Renewable Sectors. He is also a Part-Time Instructor for the Electrical Training Institute. At REI Patrick specializes in organizing and training Field Personnel to meet the project goals and their personal objectives. In his Instructional role with ETI, he specializes in writing curriculum for new classes and training instructors on emerging technology subject matter. In both roles, he believes strongly in helping others achieve their workplace and personal goals through mentorship and hands-on learning.

  • Jim Simpson Speaker Headshot | NECA Convention

    Jim Simpson

    Electrical Training Alliance

    Jim is currently the Director of Installer-Technician and Residential. He oversees curriculum development for Telecommunications, Fiber Optic, Data Networks, Fire Alarm Systems, Security and Access Control Systems, Video Surveillance Systems, Residential Technologies, and online curriculum development.

  • Headshot Placeholder | NECA Chicago 2025

    Matt Apfel

    IBEW Local #357 

    Matthew Apfel is a Senior Technician in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local #357. He has spent the last two decades of his educational and professional life in the Information and Technologies Sector of the Electrical Industry. From his first job assignment in Vocational school in 2000 to his current position, he has worked hard at advancing his career and those around him. This mindset of outreach and assisting his fellow students helped him through his early career as a VICA and Skills USA Student ambassador. Matthew has been honored to hold a variety of roles in the Electrical community. These roles included the privilege of acting in Project/Construction Management, System Design, Construction, System Installation, and Operations. Early in his career, Matthew set goals with professional training organizations such as BICSI and The Fiber Optics Organization. In 2015, Matthew reached these goals, becoming a BICSI Registered Communications Distribution Designer and FOA Certified Fiber Optics Instructor. These professional relationships with BICSI and FOA have assisted him in being part of many amazing projects in the electrical industry. As an Assistant Training Director of the Electrical JATC, Matthew is now highly focused on expanding training and educational opportunities to his community, IBEW Brothers/ Sisters and Apprentices, in his world-class electrical training facility.