The Call for Content is open from Friday, January 9, to Friday, March 27, 2026.
The Call for Content is an open invitation for anyone—industry professionals, aspiring leaders, and passionate individuals—to share their insights, experiences, and innovative ideas with the IEC community. It’s an opportunity to contribute to the conversation, inspire growth, and make an impact on the future of the electrical contracting industry.
The Value of Education at SPARK
Outcome-Driven
SPARK attendees gain actionable insights they can immediately apply to strengthen their businesses, teams, and careers.
Community Building
SPARK creates space for long-lasting industry connections through shared learning, discussion, and real-world collaboration.
About SPARK
SPARK is the premier gathering for the electrical contracting industry to learn, connect, and stay ahead of technological advancements and business strategies, helping members grow their businesses and careers.
The Audience
SPARK educational programming primarily serves electrical contractors. Proposals should clearly define the recommended knowledge level and prior experience required to ensure maximum session impact.
SPARK also offers dedicated educational content for the IEC Chapter Staff Community. Proposals intended for this audience should be clearly identified within the submission.
Topics We’re Looking For
Business Development
Sessions in this track focus on strengthening, protecting, and growing electrical contracting businesses.
Key focus areas include:
- Financial Strategy & Profitability
- Business Growth & Operations
- Leadership & Communication
- Risk, Contracts & Compliance
Workforce Development
Content in this track supports building, developing, and retaining a strong electrical workforce.
Key focus areas include:
- Apprenticeship implementation at your company
- Recruiting and retaining employees
- Developing the future workforce pipeline
- Career pathways, certifications, leadership development, and advancement opportunities
Emerging Technology
This track highlights innovation and future-focused solutions shaping the electrical industry.
Key focus areas include:
- AI integration and digital transformation
- EV charging, infrastructure, and renewable energy integration
- Pre-fabrication, modular construction, and microgrids
- Smart buildings, sustainability, and data-driven decision-making
Safety
NEW for 2026: IEC will host a Safety Pre-Conference on Wednesday, October 21.
Safety submissions will be evaluated for both the Pre-Conference and the SPARK Safety Track.
Key focus areas include:
- Building a culture of safety and risk management
- OSHA compliance and regulatory updates
- Electrical codes and standards (NEC, NFPA 20, 70E, 70B)
- PPE, hazard identification, ergonomics, and tool safety
- Mental health awareness and suicide prevention in construction
- Construction Focus Four Hazards
Women in Power
This track centers on leadership, growth, and workforce development through inclusive strategies.
Key focus areas include:
- Career development and long-term advancement
- Leadership at all career stages
- Mentorship, sponsorship, and community building
- Workforce strategies to attract, develop, and retain talent
- Building allyship and organizational support
IEC Chapter Staff Community
Designed specifically for IEC chapter staff, this track supports operational excellence and membership growth.
Key focus areas include:
- Member engagement, retention, and recruitment
- Apprenticeship and workforce development strategies
- Financial management, fundraising, and sponsorships
- Advocacy and legislative outreach
- Marketing, branding, and digital engagement
- Event planning, technology tools, and chapter operations
Learning Formats
Learning Lab
(60 minutes)
A formal presentation usually given by 1 or 2 content leaders.
Panel Discussion
(60 – 90 minutes)
Unscripted conversation and analysis with one moderator and 2/3 speakers with varied backgrounds
Debate
(45 minutes)
Two experts presenting competing thesis on a topic followed by time for structure refutation
Fireside Chat
(20 – 30 minutes)
Informal, conversational session offering candid insights and storytelling
Key Submission Details
- Eligibility: Open to everyone in the electrical contracting industry, including contractors, business leaders, educators, and innovators.
- Submission Limit: Up to two proposals per person. Each proposal may include no more than five (5) speakers.
- Speaker Guidelines: Accepted speakers must register at a discounted rate and cover their travel and accommodations.
- Notification Date: End of April 2026.
What’s In It For You?
As a selected speaker at SPARK 2026, you’ll enjoy:
- Discounted Conference Registration: Gain access to the full event at a reduced rate.
- Professional Recognition: Establish yourself as a thought leader in the electrical industry.
- Enhanced Networking Opportunities: Build meaningful connections with peers, decision-makers, and industry leaders.
- Exclusive Speaker Perks: Receive SPARK-branded merchandise and a featured profile in event promotions.
- Career Development: Showcase your expertise, refine your presentation skills, and contribute to shaping the industry’s future.
How to Submit
Step 1: Review the Call for Content (CFC) Guide (PDF).
Step 2: Prepare your proposal, focusing on innovative and actionable insights.
Step 3: Fill out a submission using the button below.