The Disruptive Impact of Fault-Managed Power and GPON

This panel discussion explores how Fault-Managed Power (FMP) and Gigabit Passive Optical Networks (GPON) are disrupting traditional power distribution and fiber optic network design. How these technologies reduce the need for core spaces, simplify building design, and improve network efficiency and how contractors can leverage FMP and GPON to unlock new opportunities, deliver smarter solutions, and gain a competitive edge through cost savings and streamlined deployment will be discussed.

The Future of Leadership: Strategies to Engage and Inspire Today’s Workforce

What’s the secret to motivating today’s workforce? The answer starts with understanding that motivation is temporary and that what motivates one person, may not motivate another. It’s not about lighting a fire underneath, but rather lighting a fire within. This session will help you take inventory of your leadership toolbox, reflecting on what’s working and what’s not, while discovering new ways to lead effectively.

The Future of Limited-Energy Systems: Evolving Requirements for the 2026 NEC

This session explores the recent restructuring of National Electrical Code requirements related to limited-energy systems. With advancements in technology and the growing integration of low-voltage and limited-energy systems in buildings, the NEC has been updated to improve clarity, streamline requirements, and ensure safety. You will gain insights into the rationale behind these changes, how the restructuring impacts design and installation, and strategies for applying the new requirements in their projects. This session on will also discuss best practices for compliance and highlight key considerations for inspectors, contractors, and system designers.

Labor Relations and Artificial Intelligence

Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping labor negotiations. This session will explore practical ways to leverage AI tools for gathering and analyzing wage data, drafting or refining contract language, and supporting Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) strategies. Learn how advanced AI applications can enhance decision-making, improve efficiency, and strengthen negotiation outcomes.

Labor Relations Fireside Chat

NECA members will have an exclusive opportunity to hear from NECA and IBEW leadership on the critical Labor Relations issues shaping the evolution of the electrical industry. This thought provoking session will address the challenges many areas face as well as highlight collaborative success areas can replicate for sustained growth.

Labor Relations Roundtable

This roundtable session on Labor Relations topics will discuss critical industry matters, and share best practices and think-tank solutions to potentially improve outcomes or discover repeatable ideas at the local level. All NECA, IBEW, and JATC attendees and encouraged to participate.

Leveraging Coaching and Mentoring to Build Thriving Teams

In today’s competitive landscape, retaining top talent, preparing future leaders, and attracting skilled employees are more crucial than ever. This session will discuss proven strategies to build impactful development programs that drive organizational success through real-world examples. Attendees will leave with actionable insights, best practices, and a renewed perspective on how to start strong and create thriving teams.

Make It American: Empowering Electrical Contractors Through Domestic Manufacturing Compliance

NEMA’s Make It American™ Program offers a structured approach to help electrical manufacturers and contractors navigate and comply with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) provisions. This panel will delve into how the program’s standards and tools can assist contractors in ensuring that their projects meet federal requirements, thereby opening doors to new opportunities and markets.

Managing MV Cable System Maintenance Using Multi-Modal Sensing

This session will introduce a new approach to maintaining Medium Voltage equipment and cable systems. This session will discuss common failure modes and the challenges of traditional maintenance, and a new solution using multi-modal sensing and analytics for early anomaly detection. This method helps reduce outage risk, improve efficiency, and supports a data-driven maintenance strategy aligned with NFPA 70B standards.

Mastering Tough Conversations: A Blueprint for Success

Tough conversations are part of the job, but most field leaders dread having them. Whether it’s correcting poor workmanship, addressing safety concerns, or holding a team member accountable, these discussions are often avoided, delayed, or handled poorly. In the electrical industry, avoiding difficult conversations can lead to costly mistakes, safety risks, and a breakdown in crew trust. The good news is that having hard conversation is a skill that can be developed. This session provides a practical framework to help your leaders prepare for, conduct, and follow up on challenging conversations.