The IEC Apprentice of the Year (AOY) Competition is one of the most anticipated and respected traditions at SPARK.
Each year, top apprentices from IEC chapters across the country compete in a rigorous challenge that tests their electrical knowledge, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities.
After advancing through chapter-level competitions, finalists earn the opportunity to compete on the national stage at SPARK, demonstrating the excellence and craftsmanship that define the future of the electrical industry.
This exciting event gives attendees a front-row seat to the next generation of industry leaders.
About AOY
What is AOY?
The Apprentice of the Year competition challenges finalists through a series of demanding tests that measure both knowledge and practical ability.
Impact
The Apprentice of the Year Competition highlights the strength of IEC apprenticeship programs and the importance of workforce development in the electrical industry.
By recognizing outstanding apprentices, the competition:
Celebrates excellence in skilled trades
Promotes high standards of craftsmanship and professionalism
Demonstrates the value of apprenticeship training
Inspires the next generation of electrical professionals
A powerful reminder that investing in workforce development strengthens the entire industry
2026 Competitors
Kevin Zarr
IEC of Arizona AMS Electric Inc.
Jacob R. Phillips
IEC Atlanta Chapter Valley View Enterprises
Matthew Kaufmann
IEC of the Bluegrass HD Electric
Ryan Clark
IEC Central Ohio MJB Electric
Ethan Helmer
CenTex IEC Randall Electric
Malik Myles
IEC Chesapeake Helix Electric
Nicholas Mathsen
IEC Dakotas Muth Electric Inc.
William Herron
IEC Dallas Prism Electric
Juan M. Castillo
IEC El Paso AMPTX Electric
William Wahle
IEC Florida West Coast APG Electric
Rachel Sheppard
IEC Fort Worth Darby Electric Service
Kris Heis
IEC of Greater Cincinnati Craftsman
Ashton Brown
IEC Greater San Antonio Southwest Electrical Contracting Services Ltd.
Jay Johnson
IEC Heartland Compass Electrical Solutions
Ian Emery
IEC Indy GEMCO Constructors, LLC
Daniel Martens
IEC Kentuckiana Star Electric
Stephen Arnold
IEC Middle Tennessee DeGraauw Electric
Adam Butler
Montana IEC Loch Electric
Armando Soto
Northern New Mexico IEC THECO
Foster Green
IEC Northern Ohio STG Electric Services
Brian Paul
IEC-OKC Delco Electric, Inc.
Ethan Wang
IEC of Oregon Cox Electric Inc.
Elias Hasco
IEC Pennsylvania DeRock Electric Company
Gavin Selman
IEC Rocky Mountain Conduct All Electric
Derrick Sample
IEC of Southern Arizona Smyth Industries
Logan Bittner
IEC Southern Colorado Bible Electric
Esteban Serna
IEC Southern New Mexico Stone Electric and Power LLC
Justin Miller
IEC Texas Gulf Coast Assurance Electric
Brody Barson
IEC of Utah Custom Electrical Service
2025 Winners
Meet some of the outstanding apprentices who were recognized for their achievements last year.
Logan Bluemel - IEC of Greater Cincinnati
1st Place Winner and Ladder Logic Winner
Will Coggswell - IEC Rocky Mountain
2nd Place Winner and Productivity Challenge Winner
Brandon Stewart - CenTex IEC
3rd Place Winner
Matthias Thorgesen - IEC Greater San Antonio
Written Exam Winner and Conduit Bending Winner
Eli Eis - IEC Kansas
Motor Controls Winner
Images & Video
Re-live the 2025 Apprentice of the Year competition.
Plan your experience and follow each stage of the competition.
day 1
Qualifying Round
An evaluation of technical skills and knowledge to assess a candidate's suitability for a role. It typically includes practical tasks, problem-solving scenarios, and theoretical questions.
day 2
Final Competition
A comprehensive assessment of advanced skills and competencies is essential for understanding an individual's capabilities and potential for growth in their respective field.
day 3
Awards Ceremony
We are thrilled to announce the winners of our latest contest! Congratulations to all who participated and a special shoutout to our champions!
Ready to witness the action?
Purchase a full event pass and make your plan to watch this year’s AOY competition.