Education
Monday, October 14
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Session: Advertising, Interviewing and Retention the Key to Lowering your Turnover
Time: 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 120
Session Description: This session will discuss the constant changing advertising avenues such as social media and advertising boards. Hiring has gotten tougher and finding the right applicant almost impossible. Learn how to sell your business to applicants. Hiring the right employees is the easiest ways to cut down on your turnover. This session will include an open discussion on how your industry finds the right employees.
Speaker: Wendy Christie | Company: EmployerESource | Title: Owner/Developer
Bio: Wendy Christie owner and developer of EmployerESource has over 20 years of experience in the area of employee relations. EmployerESource is a software program that develops a company handbook by company requirements, state law, federal law and industry practices. This gives Wendy the opportunity to have read all 50 state laws and worked in countless industries. Wendy has handled over 100 different employee relations investigations. As a human resource consultant, she has helped countless companies develop legally compliant employee handbooks and documentation.
Wendy has developed 3rd Party Reporting. This provides employees with a 3rd party to report workplace disputes, providing company with an insurance policy against complaints and lawsuits. EmployerESource is the first line of defense in EEOC complaints and lawsuits.
Wendy has authored a number of articles in several industries on hiring practices, embezzlement, legally compliant employment practices and dress codes for today's workplace culture.
Session: Paving the Way for Artificial Intelligence, AI, in Electrical Contracting
Time: 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 119
Session Description: AI is real, and construction is ripe for making use of it. While the industry deepens into a Workforce Shortage, MCA, Inc. has studied and predicted how AI will evolve in construction, including how Electrical Contractors prepare to embrace and benefit from the single greatest industrywide disruptor of our lifetime? Dr. Daneshgari presents AI as it appears to the contractor, and as it is poised to benefit the open-minded and progressive thinking contractor. For most people AI is more subtle than you realize, you’re already encountering AI while using your phone and your computer as part of your everyday business and personal life. Just sitting here in this session, we are all exposed to AI and some business, somewhere, is benefitting from the data we provide. Isn’t it time you began to use AI in your business?
Dr. Daneshgari will explain what AI is, and how easy it is to get data into AI software that is available to you right now. Additionally, Dr. Daneshgari will demonstrate how rich and robust the data coming out can be and how you can benefit. He will give live and industry-relevant examples for making AI “real” and a key part of your future business strategy.
Speaker: Perry Daneshgari | Company: MCA, Inc. | Title: Paving the Way for Artificial Intelligence, AI, in Electrical Contracting
Bio: Dr. Perry Daneshgari is the founder, President, and CEO of MCA Inc. MCA is a research and implementation company that focuses on implementing process and product development, waste reduction and productivity improvement of labor, project management, estimation, accounting, and customer care. MCA, Inc. has worked with various national and international companies all over the globe. Dr. Perry has taught numerous classes and conducted several presentations for three decades for IEC (including as a keynote speaker in the 2009 annual IEC National Convention), MCAA, the Electrical Contracting Foundation, NAED, NAW, and SMACNA’s New Horizons Foundation. Dr. Perry has completed over 12 research projects for construction and distribution industries and as well as published several papers and articles. He has published 5 books, most recently “Industrialization of Construction®” and notably Agile Construction® for Electrical Contractors.. He is the technical contact for ASTM E2691, Standard Practice Job Productivity Measurement and for the NEIS Standard NECA 5-2022, for Prefabrication of Electrical Installations for Contractors.
Session: Maximizing Your IEC SPARK Experience: Essential Skills for Attendees
Time: 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 118
Session Description: Join this session to transform your IEC SPARK experience from daunting to empowering. Learn essential skills to maximize your participation during the conference, including how to meet IEC ambassadors, network with peers, and ensure you take home skills that will help you daily. Get tips on effectively planning your schedule, including selecting sessions that align with your interests and professional goals, and learn the art of making meaningful connections, from starting conversations with strangers to following up after the conference. IEC benefits go beyond just SPARK; this session will provide you with an understanding of how to leverage IEC resources to save your company time and money year-round. Discover the full range of IEC offerings, from best practice forums and discounts to workforce development. Additionally, learn about membership perks, public policy engagement, and opportunities for young professionals.
Speaker: Amy Biedenharn | Company: IEC National | Title: Membership & Chapter Senior Director
Bio: Amy Biedenharn, Membership & Chapter Senior Director with IEC National
Session: Fault Manage Power - A Brief Overview
Time: 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 121
Session Description: Explore Fault Managed Power (FMP), its advantages, and practical applications. This session delves into FMP's role in enhancing electrical safety, efficiency, and reliability. Learn how FMP can be integrated into various systems, reducing risks and improving performance across diverse industries.
Speaker: Christopher Hobbs | Company: BICSI | Title: Director of Training Delivery and Operations
Bio: Christopher S. Hobbs, RCDD, DCDC, OSP, RTPM, CT is the Director of Training Delivery and Operations at BICSI. He has spent over 30 years in the ICT working as an installer, project manager, and designer. Prior to coming to BICSI, he was the senior project manager for a low voltage contracting company. Christopher has worked in industrial, military and commercial project all over North America and a few countries outside of the United States. He started at BICSI as a training delivery specialist facilitating courses all over the world for BICSI and has had many students successfully pass BICSI exams. He now leads the Training Delivery team at BICSI.
Session: Powerful Panels: Innovative Workforce Solutions
Time: 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 122/123
Session Description: We all know finding and keeping qualified electrical workers is not only an electrical contractor's number one issue but also limits a contractor's growth. We've all been to sessions promoting respecting, appreciating, and assuring the right fit, but what more can you do after that?
It is no longer acceptable to place a job ad on Indeed, utilize your current workforce, or throw more money at your workers. In this session, a panel of experts will share specific tactics they have used to recruit and keep employees. From finely tuned software to one-on-one tactics to offering the correct type of benefits, this session will provide ideas, solutions, and an opportunity to build and keep your workforce.
Speaker: Niel Dawson, MS In Education | Company: IEC Atlanta/Georgia | Title: Executive Director
Bio: Niel Dawson has been the Executive Director of the Atlanta and Georgia Chapters for the last 28 years and has grown the membership from 50 contractors to 265. Under his leadership, the apprenticeship program has increased from less than 100 to nearly 1,000 in 6 locations and online. With an MS in Education, Niel has used both his education and experience to expand the services IEC Atlanta/Georgia offers the membership. More specifically, the chapters' workforce services now include two full-time workforce recruiters, a monthly Basic Skills Installers Course, monthly open house, job fairs, and employability workshops.
To enhance workforce services, he has partnered with other companies and non-profits that provide additional expertise and deliverables to the IEC membership.
He has accumulated numerous awards throughout his tenure, including Executive Director of the Year twice, multiple Apprenticeship Chapter of the Year, and Chapter of the Year.
In 2020, he created GIFT - Georgia Industry Foundation for Training, a subsidiary of IEC Atlanta/Georgia, which provides scholarships for individuals entering the electrical industry and those already in the IEC apprenticeship program who face financial challenges.
He also serves on the IEC President's Advisory Board, is an IEC Ambassador, and multiple other IEC committees. In 2020, when COVID first came on, he created the IEC Sharing Session so that IEC Executive Directors could share information about how they dealt with COVID. This sharing session still exists today, though the topic is not COVID. Last year, he created and is currently leading the IEC Flashpoint (a database) best practices sharing group.
Niel also actively serves on his church board and his local park board.
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Session: Becoming a Presenter
Time: 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 118
Session Description: We have all sat through presentations that have had great content, however have been less than engaging. This session will share a model to use for a presenter to become more engaging regardless of the content or the size of the audience. We tend to remember those sessions that connected with us versus those we had a hard time focusing on - mostly due to the delivery, not the content.
Speaker: Bruce Seilhammer | Company: SECCO | Title: Group Manager
Bio: Bruce Seilhammer has been in the electrical industry for over 41 years. He started his career in the Air Force in 1982 and spent his four years serving as an electrical apprentice in Utah. After his time in the military he moved back to his home state of Connecticut and obtained his Journeyman’s license. He now lives in Pennsylvania and is working for SECCO, Electric, where he carries his Master Electricians License. Bruce started there 31 years ago as a Foreman and then moved into the Field Superintendent position. In 2006 he became the Electrical Construction Group Manager. Bruce has a strong belief in sharing knowledge – he teaches classes on Foreman Training, Leadership, Train the Trainer, and the Master Electricians exam prep classes. There are currently (15) Licensed Master Electricians on his staff. He is very active with the IEC and has been a presenter at the National Convention for many years. Bruce has held all of the IEC board positions at his Chapter, and served as the National President on the Executive Committee in 2017. He is currently serving again as the IEC Pennsylvania Chapter President.
Session: Get a GRIP On Your Rework. Yes, There Is Rework. Are Your Teams Covering It Up Or Do You Measure It, Debrief and Mitigate?
Time: 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 120
Session Description: Rework is defined as “activities in the field (including prefabrication) that have to be done more than once, or activities which remove work previously installed as part of the project regardless of source, where no change order has been issued and no change of scope have been identified by the Owner”.
Rework can have devastating consequences to your project. In addition to demoralizing your team, it can harm your reputation, and it can be very costly to project profitability. To understand the impact of rework, it is important to understand your organizations Error Culture. Does your organization acknowledge mistakes, bring them to your attention, identify the cause and take steps to mitigate those conditions going forward? Or are they embarrassed by and fearful of admitting errors? Is it harmful for them to make errors known to others? Does your team correct errors without concern for identifying the root cause and sharing the lessons learned so that a similar error might be prevented? Is it best that they just “bury it” and move on?
The key to mitigating the causes of rework it to start with your organizations Error Culture and adjusting that culture so that it allows you to create a process that will:
-Implement a rework data collection system to document rework that does occur.
-Train teams to Analyze and Act on rework data to mitigate risks on future projects.
-Perform an Anticipated Rework Assessment prior to the start of construction.
-Contractors who practice this have seen dramatic reductions in rework through honest, blameless assessment of mistakes, allowing the field teams to be more collaborative, cooperative, productive, and profitable!
Speaker: Steve Killius | Company: Legrand | Title: VP, Contractor Industry Affairs and Programs
Bio: Steve Killius is VP, Contractor Industry Affairs and Programs for Legrand North and Central Americas Electrical Wiring Systems Division manages outreach to the electrical contractor community, providing support to and through industry associations, foundations and electrical apprenticeship programs in the US. Steves mission is to demonstrate that Legrand is a true friend and partner to the electrical contractor, the electrical professional, and the student/apprentice. With over 30 years of sales and demand creation experience primarily with the contractor community, he brings expertise in needs assessment, problem solving, solutions selection, process improvement, and productivity.
Session: Understanding and Complying with Fair Labor Standards Act
Time: 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 121
Session Description: Organizations of every size and shape can be susceptible to wage and hour violations. The last thing you want to do is violate the FLSA . Penalties are expensive and audit are time consuming. Companies are often shocked to learn that they can be on the hook for many millions of dollars for unintentional errors. This session is a cheat sheet to help you learn the FLSA rules and reduce your liability. This class will go over what exactly the FLSA is and the rules you need to follow. Including the all-important minimum wage and overtime rules, and beyond. This class analyzes state and federal law to help companies understand the correct law. Because the burden of proof for FLSA compliance lies with the employer, not the employee, it’s vital for companies to maintain accurate records. This class will go over record keeping requirements. The reality is that wage and hour law can be confusing, and most companies simply don’t know they’re non-compliant. The Department of Labor estimates that approximately 70 percent of companies operate with FLSA compliance issues. This session will help make sure you are not one of them.
Speaker: Wendy Christie | Company: EmployerESource | Title: Owner/Developer
Bio: Wendy Christie owner and developer of EmployerESource has over 20 years of experience in the area of employee relations. EmployerESource is a software program that develops a company handbook by company requirements, state law, federal law and industry practices. This gives Wendy the opportunity to have read all 50 state laws and worked in countless industries. Wendy has handled over 100 different employee relations investigations. As a human resource consultant, she has helped countless companies develop legally compliant employee handbooks and documentation.
Wendy has developed 3rd Party Reporting. This provides employees with a 3rd party to report workplace disputes, providing company with an insurance policy against complaints and lawsuits. EmployerESource is the first line of defense in EEOC complaints and lawsuits. Wendy has authored a number of articles in several industries on hiring practices, embezzlement, legally compliant employment practices and dress codes for today's workplace culture.
Session: Securing the Current: Digital Marketing and Cybersecurity Essentials for IEC Members
Time: 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 119
Session Description: Join us for an exclusive presentation tailored specifically for IEC Members to enhance their cybersecurity knowledge and digital marketing skills. Are you a business owner looking to take your digital marketing efforts to the next level? This training presentation is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to optimize your website and social media presence for maximum impact.
Whether you are a beginner looking to establish a strong online presence or an experienced marketer wanting to enhance your skills, our digital marketing training program is tailored to meet your needs. Join us and unlock the potential of digital marketing to grow your business and reach new heights of success.
In today's digital age, cybersecurity is paramount, even in the electrical industry. This workshop will cover essential topics ranging from understanding cybersecurity threats to practical strategies for securing digital assets, protecting customer data, and ensuring the integrity of IoT devices. Participants will gain insights into the latest cybersecurity best practices and learn how to mitigate risks effectively. Don't miss this opportunity to safeguard your business and elevate your cybersecurity posture!
Speaker: Manoj Tandon; Tyler Smith; Marilyn Akers Stansbury; Denise Sims
Session: Powerful Panels: Pre-Fabrication
Time: 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 122/123
Session Description: Discover the transformative potential of pre-fabrication in the electrical industry. This panel discussion will delve into the latest advancements, best practices, and real-world experiences showcasing how pre-fab can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve project timelines. Learn from experts who are leading the way in integrating pre-fabrication into their operations and gain insights into how you can leverage this innovative approach in your own projects.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Session: Policies, Practices & Protection. Does your Handbook Have What It Takes?
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 118
Session Description: Employee handbooks are expensive for employers to develop and maintain. This session will discuss the laws, regulations, benefits and downfalls of having an employee handbook. Some courts interpret language in employee handbooks as a binding contract, so the class also covers how to avoid any unconditional promises of employment. Discuss how to make sure your handbook covers a variety of important business practices but also how to avoid an “unmanageable” handbook. The wrong employee handbook can expose you to unnecessary risks and costly mistakes this class will help you reduce those risks.
Speaker: Wendy Christie | Company: EmployerESource | Title: Owner/Developer
Bio: Wendy Christie owner and developer of EmployerESource has over 20 years of experience in the area of employee relations. EmployerESource is a software program that develops a company handbook by company requirements, state law, federal law and industry practices. This gives Wendy the opportunity to have read all 50 state laws and worked in countless industries. Wendy has handled over 100 different employee relations investigations. As a human resource consultant, she has helped countless companies develop legally compliant employee handbooks and documentation.
Wendy has developed 3rd Party Reporting. This provides employees with a 3rd party to report workplace disputes, providing company with an insurance policy against complaints and lawsuits. EmployerESource is the first line of defense in EEOC complaints and lawsuits. Wendy has authored a number of articles in several industries on hiring practices, embezzlement, legally compliant employment practices and dress codes for today's workplace culture.
Session: Implementing Business Software & Driving Adoption
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 119
Session Description: The construction industry has been slow to adopt new technologies. For many years, tech was seen as an optional add-on only for the most forward-thinking firms. However, that perception is changing. To stay competitive, it's imperative for every contractor to adopt tech solutions. The trick is to ensure that any technology you bring in the door adds real value to your business (and not just absorbing time and money with little to show for it!). During this presentation, we'll walk through the most important steps to implementing the right software for your business:
- Deciding on the right time for a new tech solution
- Identifying the pain points and selling the vision
- Managing risk during implementation
- Integrating adoption into business workflows
In addition, hear how Caroline Ireland of Ireland Electric added new tech solutions to their business by developing robust processes to avoid pitfalls like choosing the wrong platforms, excessive team pushback, and ongoing confusion.
Setting up a well-planned tech adoption process is not easy, but by approaching your new tech deployment as a series of manageable, bite-sized steps, you'll set your team up for success.
Speaker: Maria Davidson | Company: Kojo | Title: CEO and Founder
Bio: Maria Davidson is the CEO and Founder of Kojo, construction’s leading materials management software. Before Kojo, Maria helped build 8VC, a venture fund with over $3.5 Billion in assets under management, and spent time as an investment banker at Goldman Sachs. She holds a BA from Oxford University. Maria has been selected to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and named one of Inc. Magazine’s Top 100 Female Founders.
Session: Innovate to Elevate - Transforming Challenges Into Opportunities
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 120
Session Description: Join us in this hands-on, highly interactive workshop where you will develop a basic understanding of some of the simple productivity tools that can be used by team members and leaders alike to transform challenges into opportunities. These simple tools will help you address the items that frequently make work more difficult, resulting in waste and lost productivity.
From hand-on sessions you will learn about:
-Waste
-6S and
-How to Transform your Daily Huddles into a Source of Innovation
Speaker: Alan J Gasvoda | Company: Milwaukee Tool | Title: End User Productivity - CI Leader
Bio: Alan Gasvoda. End User Productivity - CI Leader, Milwaukee Tool.
Experienced people-centric leader that builds high performing teams by developing their CI mindset to deliver amazing results. He is obsessed with helping people, teams and organizations realize their potential.
Alan has over 25 years of diverse experience including construction, software and automation systems, and manufacturing. He has held senior level roles in HR, systems, quality, project management, and Continuous Improvement.
Session: More Than “Online Shopping”: How E-Commerce Can Boost Contractors’ Productivity
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 121
Session Description: Have you ever needed a copy of an invoice from your distributor after 5pm so you could complete your billing? Ever sat down at the dinner table, only to remember you need an extra roll of wire tomorrow and your distributor closed an hour ago? And my favorite: ever been sitting at the jobsite wondering, “When is that delivery going to show up?”
Almost all of us shop online all the time in our private lives. According to Forbes magazine, 78% of US citizens also do their banking online. Yet only 18% of electrical distribution business is done through an ecommerce platform. Why don’t electrical contractors place orders or manage financials with their distributors online?
Ecommerce has huge potential for contractors as a productivity tool and labor-saving solution. Grabbing a missing invoice at any hour of the night, making a last-minute order, and getting a delivery estimate are just a few clicks away through your local distributor’s website.
Speaker: Kevin Massey | Company: World Electric Supply | Title: Director, Lighting Solutions
Bio: Kevin Massey currently works at World Electric as a Lead Solutions Specialist for Lighting. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Salisbury University and Master of Science in management from Wilmington University. Kevin began his career as a service electrician with Phillips Signs in 1992 and entered the electrical distribution industry in 2003 with Tristate Electric Supply in Maryland. Kevin’s 10+ years of field experience, from truck driver to job site laborer, project manager, and regional sales manager, allow him to understand the daily needs of electrical contractors. Kevin was tasked with rolling out an ecommerce platform in the late 2000s. He found his passion in coaching and mentoring and has continued to promote the benefits of online platforms for saving contractors time and money. Kevin has been active with the sales program at Salisbury University and became an adjunct professor in 2020. When he isn’t working with the next generation of electrical professionals, he enjoys fishing, spending time at the beach, and spoiling his grandchildren.
Session: Powerful Panels: Working with General Contractors
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 122/123
Session Description: Developing the next generation of foremen and leaders within your organization is vital for long-term success. This panel discussion will focus on strategies for internal development, including mentorship programs, leadership training, and career progression planning. Learn from industry experts how to cultivate talent, foster professional growth, and build a strong pipeline of future leaders.
12:45 PM - 2:00 PM
Session: Keynote: Thinking Inside the Box: How Tough Times Fuel True Creativity and Innovation
Time: 12:45 PM - 2:00 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom BC
Session Description: We’ve all said it: “If only I had ________, then I could do __________.”
We’re convinced that the only thing standing between us and our best work is more money, more time, more resources, more buy-in, a better team, a better boss, a better piece of software… the list goes on.
But the truth is, real creative work thrives within constraints.
True creative work exists in the gap between what you have and what you think you need. After all, if you had everything you needed, you wouldn’t need creativity at all.
True creativity showed up when the Apollo 13 astronauts had to make square filters fit round tubes. It showed up when a global pandemic made in-person work a liability. And it’ll show up for you too, once you let go of your misguided beliefs about what true creativity requires.
During this session, Kyle will:
• Show how constraints are the breeding ground for creativity.
• Identify the difference between constructive constraint and restrictive constraint.
• Help reframe the constraints in your organization and find the solutions you’ve been searching for.
• Walk through tools and exercises to break through creative blocks.
Speaker: Kyle Scheele
Bio: Kyle Scheele has been called "the patron saint of crazy ideas". Whether he's having a Viking funeral for the regrets of 21,000 people, hosting the world's first fake marathon, or gaining a million TikTok followers in just 25 hours, Kyle is always on the lookout for crazy ideas that produce wildly outsized outcomes. Over the last decade, his projects have been featured in outlets like Fast Company, WIRED, The Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, UpWorthy, Goalcast, and more. His videos have been viewed over 250 million times, and he has spoken to hundreds of thousands of audience members across the United States. More than anything, Kyle hopes that his story can inspire others to chase their own crazy ideas and become the people they were meant to be.
Tuesday, October 15
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Session: Killer Contract Clauses
Time: 8:00 AM -9:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 118
Session Description: This session will discuss the top 10-15 contract clauses that construction contractors commonly face when presented with a contract from a general contractor or owner. We will discuss the legal consequences of these clauses. We will also discuss how to revise these clauses so that they are more equitable for the construction contractor.
Speaker: Philip Siegel | Company: Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel | Title: Partner and Shareholder
Bio: Philip J. Siegel, Esq., is a partner and shareholder with the firm of Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel. Philip attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan graduating with distinction from the School of Business Administration where he earned his B.B.A. Mr. Siegel received his law degree from Emory University School of Law. He worked in the public accounting industry as a state and local tax consultant for two years prior to commencing his career as a construction litigation and labor/employment attorney.
Mr. Siegel’s practice focuses primarily in the areas of labor/employment law, including defense of OSHA citations, immigration compliance assistance, Davis-Bacon Act consulting, contract consulting, and construction litigation, including representation of general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers, all on a national basis.
Session: Why Software Implementation Derails and How to Fix It
Time: 8:00 AM -9:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 119
Session Description: You would never buy new equipment without ensuring your team knows how to use it efficiently. The same goes for new software, which today’s construction companies are using to combat labor shortages, supply chain woes, and higher material costs. However, introducing new software can be frustrating and stressful to your team—and implementation often takes longer than expected due to the need for detailed plans, strategic communication, and executive support. In this session, Claire Wilson (former construction project manager) will share an industry-specific game plan for successfully implementing software in your organization.
Speaker: Claire Wilson | Company: Siteline | Title: Head of Construction Solutions
Bio: Claire Wilson is Head of Construction Solutions at Siteline, the only A/R management software built for trade contractors. Previously, Claire was a project manager at Tishman Construction in New York City, where she worked on monumental projects like Hudson Yards and JP Morgan’s Corporate Headquarters. Her experience there gave Claire a direct view into how construction billing works and why trade contractors need software specific to their workflows. Claire has a BS in Civil Engineering from Bucknell University.
She lives in San Francisco and serves on the Bay Area Subcontractors Association (BASA) board. She is an active member of CFMA and has spoken at multiple regional conferences including the Southeastern, Lone Star, and Carolinas conferences. She has also spoken at the North American Iron Workers' IMPACT Conference, the Steel Conference, regional glass expos, and IEC’s SPARK and Business Summits.
Session: 5 Stones For Slaying Giants - Critical Success Factors For Business and Life
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 120
Session Description: 5 Stones For Slaying Giant is a riveting keynote presentation meticulously crafted to empower individuals in mastering the delicate art of work-life balance. With a focus on the five foundational pillars of Passion, Excellence, Vision, Value, and Confidence, this session is a beacon of inspiration, illuminating pathways to personal and professional fulfillment.
Incorporating captivating storytelling, dynamic group discussions, and introspective exercises, participants embark on a transformative journey, discovering practical tools to navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. Each stone—Passion, Excellence, Vision, Value, and Confidence—is not merely discussed but deeply explored, offering profound insights and actionable strategies for immediate implementation.
Who could resist the allure of embracing heightened Passion, pursuing unwavering Excellence, fostering Visionary leadership, delivering unparalleled Value, and exuding unshakable Confidence?
This presentation transcends boundaries, resonating with individuals from all walks of life and empowering them to confront obstacles head-on, armed with newfound clarity and determination.
Whether in the boardroom or the living room, the principles unveiled in this session serve as a compass, guiding individuals towards their fullest potential and most fulfilling existence.
Speaker: Curt Tueffert | Company: DXP | Title: VP of Sales Development
Bio: Curt is also a previous speaker for the IEC and has been invited back several times due to his ability to deliver world class content with high energy and a touch of humor. Curt as also written several articles for the IEC publications.
Curt won the Stevie award for Sales Content Development a few years ago and has been a regular adjunct professor at the University of Houston where he teaches business communication on the Master’s level and Sales/Marketing on the undergraduate track.
As the VP of Sales Development for DXP, a Houston based Industrial Distributor, Curt brings real world application to the electrical contractor as well as the IEC staff. Curt has spoken several items for the IEC, and has a consistent record of high audience approval.
Curt is the author of 5 Stones For Slaying Giants, 201 Sales Motivators and is the contributing author for SPEAK, an anthology written by the National Speakers Association.
Session: Electrify the future of Housing – New Project Opportunities for Electrical Contractors
Time: 8:00 AM -9:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 121
Session Description: Homes around the country are being electrified. From EV chargers, heat pumps, to ranges, there is more demand than ever for electricity. We’ll explore this growing trend and look at ways that electrical contractors can prepare their business to capitalize on residential electrification. Local and federal incentives are driving homeowners away from fossil fuels and towards more sustain-able energy generation. This will put a strain on the home’s electrical system and will require home-owners to make decisions about what upgrades they want to pursue. Fortunately, there are options. Load centers can be upgraded, the incoming utility services can be in-creased, and new products, such as home energy monitoring and control solutions enable homeowners to manage the electrical loads more efficiently with their existing load center and wiring. This session will help attendees learn about the emerging residential electrification trends.
Speaker: Brian Schmalberger | Company: ABB | Title: Residential Market Development Manager
Bio: Brian Schmalberger is the Residential Market Development Manager at ABB U.S., a technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling the future of residential electrification and control. At ABB, Brian is responsible for the home builder strategy and developing go-to-market plans and partnerships for our smart home devices, electrical equipment, and home energy monitoring and control in the residential market.
Brian has leveraged his engineering and marketing background the electrical industry for 20 years to find the right solutions for customers.
Session: Powerful Panels: Communicating Across Age Gaps
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 122/123
Session Description: Effective communication across age gaps is essential for fostering a cohesive and productive work environment. This panel discussion will explore strategies for improving intergenerational communication and collaboration. Learn how to bridge the gap between seasoned professionals and younger employees, leveraging the strengths of each generation to enhance team dynamics and drive success in your projects.
9:15 AM - 10:15 AM
Session: NFPA 70E & 70B Arc Flash Safety Training.
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 118
Session Description: This seminar will teach attendees the 6 Steps to Becoming NFPA 70E & OSHA Arc Flash Compliant. The NFPA 70E contains six specific safety measures as required by OSHA to be accomplished “within a reasonable period of time” before a business/building owner can become Arc Flash Compliant. This informative 60 minute program will demonstrate why OSHA considers ARC FLASH a huge priority and provides everything facility managers need to know, and do, to become compliant.
-Learn National Government Safety Regulations & Requirements that were designed to help building owners protect their buildings, employees, vendors and clients from a Deadly Arc Flash Explosion.
-Learn specific Life-Safety practices, and procedures Host Employers and Contract Employers must know, follow and document in order to protect their assets and Limit Their Financial Liability.
-Learn the three step proven process that will ensure business/building owners never experience a lengthy and costly accidental electrical fire and/or business interruption. The information contained in this seminar helps building Electrical Contractors, Electricians, and the companies they serve to know how to make sure they are safe from all recognized electrical hazards like shock and burn from an electrical arc flash explosion.
-Plus it discusses the need for Official Arc Flash Labels, how to read them, and how to ensure their safety by wearing the appropriate PPE.
-And lastly it demonstrates the importance of NFPA 70B, what type and kind of Predictive, Proactive, and Preventive Maintenance are requiered along with their specific maintenance intervals. Especially now that NFPA 70B is now, as of January 2023, a STANDARD and no longer just a Recommendation.
Speaker: Martin Raymond Perrone | Company: Everything Arc Flash, LLC | Title: Owner
Bio: Martin “Marty” Perrone, moved to Palm Beach County in 1979 from Miami. Since then, he graduated from Sandler Sales Institute, excelled at “Managing Interpersonal Relationships” by Wilson Learning, achieved a 4.0 grade average through four years of “Industrial Inside Wiring” electrical training, completed an NFPA 70E certification and OSHA Compliance course.
In 2012 Marty attended TEGG training in Pittsburgh, PA., and became a “Certified TEGG Representative” for Carpenter Electric out of West Palm Beach, FL. Since then, he has conducted Arc Flash Safety Training for a variety of industrial and commercial property managers, healthcare facility management, various industry organizations and associations like; AHCA, OSHA, BOMA, FHEA, FLSHCA, IAEI, BOAF, as well as Fire Marshals, Fire Inspectors and Fire Rescue Personnel.
The Arc Flash Safety and NFPA 70E Training Marty provides are offered in 60 and 90 versions, or General Contractors, Electrical Contractors and Community Association Managers can take his 2 Hour course, which are sanctioned by the State of Florida; Department of Business & Professional Regulations and offers 2 CEU’s for its completion. In addition, due to the serious nature of an Arc Flash Explosion, his 4 Hour course is sanctioned by the Bureau of Fire Standards and Training; Florida State Fire College CEU # 51980 giving 4 CEU’s to Fire Marshals, Inspectors and Rescue personnel.
In February of 2022 Marty left Carpenter Electric to start his consulting business, Everything Arc Flash, LLC. Since then, he has conducted several Arc Flash Risk Assessments, and NFPA 70 E Electrical Safety training programs for a variety of different business verticals.
Session: “Oh! My Aching Back!”: The Devil’s Triangle - Understanding the Overlap Between the FMLA, ADA and Workers’ Compensation Laws
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 119
Session Description: Most construction contractors understand that when an employee suffers an injury at work, workers’ compensation insurance will provide coverage for the claim. But when an employee suffers an injury at work and is unable to come back to work, other laws are implicated. This presentation will provide an overview of the interplay between the Family Medical Leave Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and workers’ compensation laws, all of which may come into play when an injured employee will need to miss work. Attendees to this presentation will learn the employer’s compliance obligations under what is often referred to as the Devil’s Triangle and be in a better position to avoid a mis-step when dealing with an injured employee, which could cost the company thousands of dollars. Attendees will also learn the legal road map for effectuating a termination of an injured employee who is unable to timely return to work.
Speaker: Philip Siegel | Company: Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel | Title: Partner and Shareholder
Bio: Philip J. Siegel, Esq., is a partner and shareholder with the firm of Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel. Philip attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan graduating with distinction from the School of Business Administration where he earned his B.B.A. Mr. Siegel received his law degree from Emory University School of Law. He worked in the public accounting industry as a state and local tax consultant for two years prior to commencing his career as a construction litigation and labor/employment attorney.
Mr. Siegel’s practice focuses primarily in the areas of labor/employment law, including defense of OSHA citations, immigration compliance assistance, Davis-Bacon Act consulting, contract consulting, and construction litigation, including representation of general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers, all on a national basis.
Session: AI Forecast: Top Trends for Maximum Impact
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 120
Session Description: Artificial intelligence (AI) is on a remarkable growth trajectory, poised to reach $407 billion by 2027. Despite this promising outlook, the construction industry lacks the knowledge and resources to effectively utilize AI applications for maximum impact.
In this session, Claire Wilson and Gloria Lin will discuss current and future AI trends that offer the most potential in the construction industry, along with real-world use cases demonstrating AI's positive impact on project timelines, cost management, productivity, and overall business growth. Furthermore, they will provide actionable tips for evaluating different AI-powered solutions, ensuring that participants are equipped with the knowledge to choose the right solution for their organization.
Speaker: Claire Wilson & Gloria Lin | Company: Siteline
Bio: Claire Wilson is Head of Construction Solutions at Siteline, the only A/R management software built for trade contractors. Previously, Claire was a project manager at Tishman Construction in New York City, where she worked on monumental projects like Hudson Yards and JP Morgan’s Corporate Headquarters. Her experience there gave Claire a direct view into how construction billing works and why trade contractors need software specific to their workflows. Claire has a BS in Civil Engineering from Bucknell University.
She lives in San Francisco and serves on the Bay Area Subcontractors Association (BASA) board. She is an active member of CFMA and has spoken at multiple regional conferences including the Southeastern, Lone Star, and Carolinas conferences. She has also spoken at the North American Iron Workers' IMPACT Conference, the Steel Conference, regional glass expos, and IEC’s SPARK and Business Summits.
Gloria Lin is the Co-Founder and CEO of Siteline, a company dedicated to transforming the construction industry by streamlining financial operations for commercial subcontractors. Drawing on her personal experience growing up in a family whose contracting business lifted them to middle-class stability, Gloria is passionate about making financial infrastructure more accessible. With over two decades in Silicon Valley, including key roles in the development of Apple Pay and work at Stripe, she brings a wealth of expertise to her mission at Siteline. Her goal is to expedite payments and reduce financial stress for subcontractors, who often face long delays due to outdated, manual processes. Through Siteline, she aims to challenge the status quo by providing technology that enhances productivity, improves decision-making, and ultimately supports the backbone of the construction industry.
Session: High Impact Communication For Maximum Leadership Development - Providing Feedback and Coaching In Your Daily Role As Leader
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 121
Session Description: The Art and Science Of Great Leadership Is Communication. The leader’s role as coach, mentor, manager, and employer is influenced, positive or negative, by their communication. What if there is more to learn about communication? What is there are new ideas, fresh approaches, and state of the art tools to increase the chance that communication is heard and will be acted upon?
Ever have a conversation where the opinions are strong, the stakes are high and the emotions are on edge? This workshop will chart a path to gaining better critical conversation successes using the fresh tools to move from confusion to clarity.
For many leaders, knowing the latest trends and techniques can assist them in improving their communication, casting a clearer vision, and moving projects rapidly to their completion.
Speaker: Curt Tueffert | Company: DXP | Title: VP of Sales Development
Bio: Curt is also a previous speaker for the IEC and has been invited back several times due to his ability to deliver world class content with high energy and a touch of humor. Curt as also written several articles for the IEC publications.
Curt won the Stevie award for Sales Content Development a few years ago and has been a regular adjunct professor at the University of Houston where he teaches business communication on the Master’s level and Sales/Marketing on the undergraduate track.
As the VP of Sales Development for DXP, a Houston based Industrial Distributor, Curt brings real world application to the electrical contractor as well as the IEC staff. Curt has spoken several items for the IEC, and has a consistent record of high audience approval.
Curt is the author of 5 Stones For Slaying Giants, 201 Sales Motivators and is the contributing author for SPEAK, an anthology written by the National Speakers Association.
Session: Powerful Panels: Working with General Contractors
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 122/123
Session Description: Working seamlessly with general contractors is a critical component of successful project execution. This panel discussion will provide insights into building strong, cooperative relationships with GCs. Topics may include effective communication, conflict resolution, and aligning goals to ensure smooth project delivery. Gain valuable tips from industry veterans on how to navigate the complexities of contractor collaboration.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Session: The Top 10 Employment Law Mistakes Most Commonly Made by Construction Contractors (and how to avoid them!)
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 118
Session Description: This presentation will address the top employment law mistakes made by construction contractors in the construction industry. Attendees will learn steps they can take to minimize potential liability for employment law matters. Attendees will learn how best to ensure a former employee is prohibited from bringing claims against the company, and how to avoid other common traps in the employment law arena. Issues to be addressed include, but are not limited to, proper classification of independent contractors, severance pay, documenting disciplinary actions, the importance of written job descriptions, the importance of a discrimination and harassment policy, and common wage and hour mistakes such as those made regarding travel pay.
Speaker: Philip Siegel | Company: Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel | Title: Partner and Shareholder
Bio: Philip J. Siegel, Esq., is a partner and shareholder with the firm of Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel. Philip attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan graduating with distinction from the School of Business Administration where he earned his B.B.A. Mr. Siegel received his law degree from Emory University School of Law. He worked in the public accounting industry as a state and local tax consultant for two years prior to commencing his career as a construction litigation and labor/employment attorney.
Mr. Siegel’s practice focuses primarily in the areas of labor/employment law, including defense of OSHA citations, immigration compliance assistance, Davis-Bacon Act consulting, contract consulting, and construction litigation, including representation of general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers, all on a national basis.
Session: 5 Secrets for Healthier Cash Flow
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 119
Session Description: Of the $1 trillion annually borrowed in construction every year, $100 billion goes unpaid. Why? The industry leans too heavily on manual processes that often lead to errors and payment delays (e.g., missing lien waivers, math errors, expired compliance documents). It’s time for the industry to buck the status quo! Construction PM-turned-billing expert Claire Wilson has interviewed hundreds of contractor project management and accounting teams. In this session, Claire Wilson will share the top five insider tips she’s learned from these conversations for automating repeatable processes, getting paid faster, and managing cash flow more effectively across all projects.
Speaker: Claire Wilson | Company: Siteline | Title: Head of Construction Solutions
Bio: Claire Wilson is Head of Construction Solutions at Siteline, the only A/R management software built for trade contractors. Previously, Claire was a project manager at Tishman Construction in New York City, where she worked on monumental projects like Hudson Yards and JP Morgan’s Corporate Headquarters. Her experience there gave Claire a direct view into how construction billing works and why trade contractors need software specific to their workflows. Claire has a BS in Civil Engineering from Bucknell University.
She lives in San Francisco and serves on the Bay Area Subcontractors Association (BASA) board. She is an active member of CFMA and has spoken at multiple regional conferences including the Southeastern, Lone Star, and Carolinas conferences. She has also spoken at the North American Iron Workers' IMPACT Conference, the Steel Conference, regional glass expos, and IEC’s SPARK and Business Summits.
Session: Take Training to the Next Level: Using Technology to Increase Performance Outcomes in the Classroom and On the Job
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 120
Session Description: Due to the widening skilled labor gap, it is no surprise that there are more job opportunities than ever in skilled trades. As a pillar of education in the electrical space, IEC has the unique opportunity to provide individuals with additional exposure and life-like training. Immersive 3D and virtual reality simulations serve as a bridge between theory and practice, that leads to better outcomes including higher retention and increased comfortability and confidence in learners that will ultimately help get them to the next level in the training center and on the job.
While incorporating cutting-edge technology into your organization can help the individuals you serve build upon their skills with additional real-world experiences, pioneering new technology can be intimidating. Simulations have been around for a significant amount of time in other high-risk, high-cost industries like the medical, military, and aviation spaces, and they're also available to the skilled trades.
Join to gain insights about organizations that have successfully implemented simulation-based skilled trades programs. Following this session, you will be able to build a case for supplementing your curriculum with simulation-based content, identify the appropriate resources needed for successful adoption, and develop a plan to scale your programming.
Speaker: Danielle Rose, Masters in HED Administration | Company: Interplay Learning | Title: Senior Account Executive for Workforce Development
Bio: Danielle Rose serves as a Senior Account Executive for Workforce Development at Interplay Learning, providing local, state, national, and international organizations the opportunity to excel using leading simulation-based training technology to support at all stages of their career journey in the trades. Danielle resides in Massachusetts with her husband, Tim, and their dog, Beth.
Session: Leadership and Team Culture
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 121
Session Description:In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving work environment, effective leadership and a strong team culture are paramount to achieving organizational success. This session on "Leadership and Team Culture" is designed to equip leaders, managers, and aspiring leaders with the insights and tools necessary to foster a positive and productive workplace culture.
Speaker: Don Ferguson | Company: Graybar | Title: National Market Manager
Bio: Don is a 20 year industry veteran. He spent a number of years with McCarthy Construction before joining Graybar in 2011. During his time at Graybar, he has held roles in IT, was the STL District BDM, and has served as the Electrical Branch Manager for ST. Louis. Don has been in his latest role as National Market Manager – Construction for the past year.
Don was elected to the Board of Directors for the Electrical Board of Missouri and Illinois in 2022 and is currently on the IEC Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Session: Powerful Panels: Navigating Business Waters, Casting the Net for Talent, and Tackling Market Opportunities
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 122/123
Session Description:This session includes panelists from Eaton, ECCN and your peers in IEC to discuss relevant industry topics to help better your business. Topics include what to setting homeowner expectations, attracting and retaining talent, gentle competition in the market, and how to seize market opportunities.
Speaker: Erik Drost | Company: Eaton | Title: Loyalty Program Manager, Assemblies and Residential Solutions division
Bio: Meet Erik Drost, Loyalty Program Manager at Eaton based out of Eaton’s Electrical Sector headquarters in Pittsburgh. Erik has been with Eaton for over 24 years and has held various roles within the ARS organization. Erik was born and raised in in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and is a huge Steelers fan. Erik enjoys sports and activities with his 3 boys (Cole, Carter, and Camden) but also looks forward to date nights with his wife (Kayla).
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Session: The Dawn of a New Day in Solar Energy
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 118
Session Description: As solar power continues to evolve we need an electrical system that is keeping pace with developments such as increased voltage. ABB believes we can also show the segment what’s possible in the electrical balance of system to maximize the power we can harvest from the sun! In this session we will take a look back in time to see where we’ve come from as it relates to solar systems and voltage and then take a peek at where the industry is going and why that’s important. In this session attendees will learn:
• A historical look at the industry and voltages used to get us to where we are today
• The next leap in voltage for string and central inverter based systems
• Key components required to enable higher voltages and why that is important to the industry
• The financial benefit of using higher voltages
• Solar focused forecast, broke down by subsegments
Speaker: Brian Nelson | Company: ABB | Title: Renewables Market Leader
Bio: Brian Nelson has 15 years of account management and business development experience in the energy industry, with a focus on electrical utilities and the renewables market in the United States. He joined ABB in 2009 and has held several roles in marketing and sales with a short stint in logistics. Currently Brian is the renewables market leader for ABB’s Electrification division, responsible for segment growth in the areas of solar, wind and energy storage. He also serves on the board of ABB’s Encompass Pride Employee Resource Group as the Partnership Chair. Brian has a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology from Purdue University and is based in Denver, North Carolina.
Session: Electrical Industry Workforce Challenges
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 119
Session Description: We invite you to participate in a focus group session exploring the barriers to entry in the electrical industry workforce. This session will concentrate on understanding the challenges faced by individuals entering this field, with a particular focus on career paths and the ongoing labor shortage. Participants will have a platform to discuss their experiences, perceptions, and concerns related to the electrical industry's workforce dynamics.
Speaker: Lisa Crews | Company: IEC National
Session: How to Cash Out, Mitigate Taxes, and Retire Comfortably: Each Path Has Different Values, Taxes & Compromises
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 120
Session Description: This presentation will explore both internal and external exit options for business owners with tax mitigation strategies for the company sale.
The electrical industry is active in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), with interest from Private Equity (PE) and Consolidators. Owners will learn how to mitigate exit taxes in this presentation.
However, internal transfers (i.e., Management Buyouts) remain the most common exit for contractors. Owners will learn a little-known, very affordable method for the managers and families to acquire the company and the owners to eliminate capital gains with the sale.
There is a lot at stake in the exit as owners typically have 70 percent of their wealth trapped inside their illiquid business.
This harvest from the sale is critical for the owner’s retirement and future lifestyle.
There are three parties in a business sale: The buyer, the seller, and Uncle Sam. You need tax strategies for all three parties.
Remember, it’s not how much you get but how much you keep.
The presentation will focus on the exit paths and how to capture this wealth from the sale (exit) without being clobbered by taxes that can exceed 60%. Imagine… Uncle Sam ending up with more than the owner from the sale.
Cash flow is a key driver of company value and EBITA in all transactions. But another key that is forgotten until it is too late is the short and long-term tax mitigation strategies for the company, buyer, and seller while protecting the company before, during, and after the sale/transfer.
Owners and CFOs will especially benefit from learning several strategies to reduce and/or eliminate the capital gains from the sale proceeds, control, and asset protection strategies.
Beacon’s focus will be on these exit planning tools and strategies, which will be demonstrated with three engaging internal and external contractor case studies of $10MM, $50MM, and $100MM revenue companies, whose strategies demonstrate millions in bottom-line savings.
Speaker: Joseph Bazzano | Company: Beacon Exit Planning | Title: Co-Owner and COO
Bio: Mr. Bazzano is the Co-Owner and COO of Beacon Exit Planning, a certified public accountant, a certified valuation analyst, and a certified business exit consultant with over 20 years of experience in public accounting, valuation, and exit strategy services for companies ranging from $5 to over $400 million. He is a national speaker on exit planning, valuation, taxes, and asset protection. He has shown business owners how to increase the value of their businesses by millions of dollars with exponential savings on tax dollars.
Mr. Bazzano is the COO of Beacon Exit Planning, a certified public accountant, a certified valuation analyst, and a certified business exit consultant with over 20 years of experience in public accounting, valuation, and exit strategy services for companies ranging from $5 to over $400 million. He is a national speaker on exit planning, valuation, taxes, and asset protection. He has shown business owners how to increase the value of their businesses by millions of dollars with exponential savings on tax dollars.
Session: Work Smarter, Not Harder: Digital Technology for Electrical Contractors
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 121
Session Description: The U.S. is undergoing massive change as we move to electrify nearly everything. This presents new challenges for electrical contractors trying to balance complex project needs while maintaining workforce safety and efficiency. We’ll discuss digital technology using augmented reality (AR) for safer equipment installation and remote monitoring tools allowing greater workforce flexibility.
Federal funding and local incentives are driving a major transformation in our electrical infrastructure. There is a significant shift to renewable energy sources. Utilities and industries are building microgrids with battery energy storage systems. Commercial and consumer EV growth continues to accelerate.
All of this requires new infrastructure that can strain the electrical contractor work-force. We’ll show how contractors and service personnel can quickly adapt using new technology to keep pace with the energy transition safely and efficiently.
Speakers: Mike Hoppe & Mike Dutoit | Company: ABB
Bios: Mike Hoppe joined ABB in 2021, as U.S. Product Marketing Director for the EL Digital portfolio. Prior to coming to ABB, Mike was the product leader for building controls at Daikin, and prior to that, he was a senior product marketing manager for the Home Comfort business line at Honeywell. Mike is located in Minnetonka, Minnesota.
Mike Dutoit is the U.S. product marketing manager for low-voltage power and insulated case circuit breakers at ABB Electrification — Smart Power Division, a global leader in electrical products and solutions operating in over 100 countries. With over 15 years of experience in the electrical industry and 10 years with ABB, Mike brings a passion for advanced circuit breaker technology. He is responsible for the overall product strategy, positioning, and commercialization for the United States.
Session: Powerful Panels: Great Idea Swap
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | Location: Tampa Convention Center, Room 122/123
Session Description: Join us for an interactive 90-minute Great Idea Swap, where industry professionals come together to share innovative solutions and creative ideas. Attendees will have the opportunity to exchange insights, brainstorm new approaches, and take home actionable ideas that can be implemented in their own organizations.