ECA News & Events Update

Prevailing Wage in Illinois

Apprentice Adjustment Effective July 1, 2026


The following concerns any work done in Illinois under Prevailing Wage as of July 1, 2026:


As many of you are aware, the Illinois General Assembly enacted a change in the Prevailing Wage Act that requires the payment of full journeymen benefits on behalf of apprentices working on projects covered by the Act. Despite the efforts of ECA, IMSCA, and other industry stakeholders, our attempts to undo that change in the law have been unsuccessful to date. 


Effective July 1st, 2026, employers will now be required to pay the same fringe benefit contributions for apprentices as is required for journey-level workers only when performing work on a project covered by the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act. ECA is currently working with the Electrical Insurance Trustees (“EIT”) to accommodate this change in the law. A new, prevailing wage-specific report will be available to employers for July hours and benefits reports. Through this new report, employers will be able to pay the regular apprentice wages with journey-level fringe benefits in lieu of paying the benefits on the check. While this new report will show the JW rate as the basis for calculations, employers need only pay the appropriate apprentice wage scale for your apprentices. EIT’s reporting system can only calculate the correct journey-level fringe benefits by populating the JW rate of $63.15, but this is not the wage that employers are required to actually pay. Employers should continue paying the regular apprentice wage. 



EIT and ECA will be hosting informational webinars once the report is available to assist employers with this change in the reporting process. We will share the dates and times for the webinars as soon as they are available. Please contact the office should you have any questions.


Additional background information:

Earlier this year, IMSCA had initiated and continued to advocate for the passage of  (HB 4751 - Hoffman), in order to address the issues stemming from the passage of HB 2488 at the close of the 2025 Spring Session. The action did not prevail. 


IMSCA's legal counsel had prepared and submitted to the Illinois Department of Labor a letter seeking the Department's guidance regarding the implementation of H.B. 2488 (P.A. 104-0017), which amended the definition of "prevailing rate of wages" within the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act (“IPWA”), effective July 1, 2026 (as delayed by H.B. 1437/P.A. 104-0434). Click the link for A copy of the letter. 

ECA Summer Social

August 14, 2026
Registration is Open!

Electrical Contractors' Association Summer Social

Offshore Rooftop at Navy Pier in Chicago

August 14, 2026


Join the Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago (ECA) at the Summer Social at Navy Pier's Offshore Rooftop. See the Chicago Air & Water Show practice from the rooftop! Mark your calendars for Friday, August 14, 2026, as we have a wonderful day planned at the Navy Pier Offshore Rooftop Bar (1000 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611)!



Located at the far East end of Chicago’s Navy Pier, Offshore Rooftop offers unencumbered views of Lake Michigan and the city’s famed skyline not found anywhere else. Celebrated as the world’s largest rooftop (source: Guinness World Records), this stunning, multi-seasonal space also boasts a world-class kitchen and full-service bar.



Program highlights include:

  • Chicago Air & Water Show practice
  • Food, Beverages, & Networking
  • Tremendous Views of the City Skyline
  • 

All ECA Members are welcome to attend this complimentary event.



*Spouses and guests are welcome to attend!



**Recommended dress attire is business casual / summer attire.



We hope to see you there!


CLICK HERE FOR REGISTRATION.

Adjusted Holiday Language

(“A”, “C”, “R” agreements.)


Please be aware that the Holiday language has been adjusted in the Principal (A), Communication (C), and Residential (R) CBAs. This will impact the Fourth of July holiday.


Please see the “A” & “C” examples, below:


“A” - HOLIDAYS  - Section 3.04

The following days shall be recognized as legal holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day or days celebrated as such. All holidays that fall on Saturday will be celebrated as such on the preceding Friday. All holidays that fall on Sunday shall be celebrated as such on the following Monday. Work being performed on holidays and/or designated holidays will receive the holiday rate of pay. 


“C” - HOLIDAYS Section 8.04

Double the employees regular straight time rate shall be paid for all work performed on Saturdays after 3:30 p.m., Sundays and the following designated legal holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, or days celebrated as such. Effective January 1, 2022, Saturday overtime after 3:30 p.m. shall be paid as double-time. Any hours worked in excess of eight (8) hours on Saturday will be paid at double the regular straight time rate of pay. All work performed after 2:30/3:30/4:30pm on Saturday to 6:00/7:00/8:00am on Monday, and on all recognized holidays, shall be paid at double the regular straight time rate of pay. Holidays include New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. All holidays that fall on Saturday will be celebrated as such on the preceding Friday. All holidays that fall on Sunday will be celebrated on the following Monday.

Chicago Department of Buildings Update

June 22, 2026


Message from Marlene Hopkins, Commissioner, Chicago Department of Buildings:


To our neighbors and partners,

When I think about what we have accomplished in the first half of 2026, one word comes to mind: progress. Last week, the Chicago City Council passed Phase 3 of the Chicago Construction Codes Modernization Initiative — the culmination of years of work, partnership, and an unwavering belief that we could modernize how this city builds without sacrificing what makes Chicago safe. It is one of the most significant milestones of my tenure, and I could not be more proud. I am grateful to every person who helped us get here — for their tenacity and their commitment to getting it right on behalf of the people we serve. There is more work to do, and together, we are ready to bring that same energy into the second half of the year. Thank you for your continued partnership!


Modern Code for a Modern City:

Phase 3 Passes — A Milestone for Chicago’s Built Environment

On June 17, 2026, the Chicago City Council passed Phase 3 of the Chicago Construction Codes Modernization Initiative — a landmark package of updates to five code areas: mechanical, fuel gas, fire prevention, energy, and residential construction. The updates address the unique needs of Chicago’s housing stock and built environment while aligning the city’s requirements with the latest national consensus standards.

Phase 3 advances Chicago’s construction standards across four key areas:


Build More Housing — New flexibilities make it easier and more cost-effective to build and convert residential buildings across Chicago.


Breathe Better — Updated mechanical and fuel gas standards align Chicago’s requirements with modern materials, equipment, and federal law.


Save More Energy — Aligns Chicago’s energy efficiency requirements with the latest national standards, reducing costs for builders and residents alike.


Get Energized — Strengthens fire safety standards for solar installations and energy storage systems across all building types.

 

Read the Full Press Release

 

Read the complete substitute ordinance here..

CISCO Announces New Executive Director

The Construction Industry Service Corporation (CISCO) recently announced that Stephanie Kifowit will be its next Executive Director. Kifowit takes the lead after the retirement of Dan Allen, who has served as CISCO’s Executive Director for the past 13 years. CISCO will be hosting a combination Retirement Breakfast (light) for Allen and a Meet-and-Greet for Kifowit as an overall Open House event on Friday, June 26, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Laborers’ District Council of Chicago & Vicinity Building, Conference Room 1st Floor, 999 McClintock Dr., Burr Ridge. Please let Julia at CISCO know of your attendance: (630) 472-9411 or julia@cisco.org.  Congratulations, Dan and Welcome, Stephanie!


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

NECA Academy of Electrical Contracting Nominee

ECA Congratulates Ken Bauwens!

The Chicago & Cook County Chapter, NECA is proud to announce that Ken Bauwens, Jamerson & Bauwens Electrical Contractors, Inc. has been confirmed for induction as a Fellow into the NECA Academy of Electrical Contracting. The Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Monday, October 5, 2026 during the NECA Convention in Las Vegas, NV.


Congratulations, Ken!


Academy Background:
The Academy of Electrical Contracting honors outstanding leaders in the electrical contracting industry, and it preserves and utilizes their wealth of experience and knowledge for the benefit of the industry. The Academy of Electrical Contracting was established in Philadelphia On October 11, 1968. On that date, the Board of Governors of the National Electrical Contractors Association authorized the addition of Article XI to the NECA Bylaws, thus establishing the Academy to recognize exceptional and outstanding service to the electrical contracting industry. Fellows of the Academy have rendered exceptional service to the industry and the National Electrical Contractors Association and that service is continued and enhanced through their fellowship in the Academy. This is accomplished through the Academy’s Working Group, special papers presented by Fellows, participation in the Annual Meeting and the general camaraderie among Fellows.

2026 NECA Future Leaders Conference

June 15 - 17, 2026

The NECA Future Leaders Conference was held on June 15 – 17, 2026 at the Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh, PA. The Chicago Chapter attendees were able to participate with a Pre-Fab Tour at Lighthouse Electric, presentations from Economist for NECA and Electrical Contractor Magazine, numerous presenters / expert speakers. The Western Pennsylvania Chapter, NECA, also sponsored a special reception at Acrisure Stadium (the official home of Pittsburgh Steelers games, University of Pittsburgh Panthers Football games, WPIAL Championships, and legendary concerts).


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

"AI in Electrical Construction" - 3rd Session! - 
June 11, 2026 

The Electrical Contractors’ Association of City of Chicago (ECA) Research and Education Committee was proud to sponsor the "AI in Electrical Construction" seminar on Thursday, June 11, 2026 from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Maggiano's Banquets in Oak Brook, IL. The session was facilitated by Carl Britton, Iron Thread Consulting. This was the third session. 


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

ECA 54th Annual Spring Conference

June 3 - 4, 2026

The Electrical Contractors’ Association of City of Chicago (ECA) held its 54th Annual Spring Conference on June 3 - 4, 2026 at the Abbey Resort & Avani Spa in Fontana-On-Geneva Lake, WI. Nearly 100 individuals registered for the Conference and 78 of those participants were able to experience a beautiful day at the Abbey Springs Golf Course with the Membership Golf Outing. 


CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE.

Allocations Formalized - Start June 1, 2026


Please click the links below for the recent formalized allocations effective June 1, 2026.


CLICK HERE for Overall allocation information.



EIT INFORMATION:

CLICK HERE for EIT "A" wage rate information.


CLICK HERE for EIT "R" wage rate information.


CLICK HERE for EIT "C" wage rate information.


CLICK HERE for EIT "B" Maintenance wage information.


Virtual Overview of Assistance Program Services


This complimentary, informative session introduces the Assistance Program, highlights the services and resources available, and provides a demonstration of our new member portal/app. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet their dedicated account manager and learn how to make the most out of Assistance Program support for themselves and their families.



CLICK HERE for the promotional flyer and meeting links - so members can register for a session that works best for them.


The first session took place on Wednesday, May 6th at 11 am CST. 


This informational session is being offered on a monthly basis. Please see the schedule and meeting links below:


Wednesday, July 1st - 11:00 am CST


Kaitlin DeBlasio is available if you have any questions. If you are interested in coordinating a custom Assistance Program overview specifically for your organization, please reach out to her directly a:t Kaitlin DeBlasio, LCPC, Client Relations Manager - direct: 847-273-3273,

kaitlin.deblasio@allonehealth.com.


Check out the new AOH App!

REMINDER

Membership Discount in the Illinois Solar Energy and 
Storage Association (ISEA)

As a reminder, the Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago (ECA) is offering a discount to member firms that are interested in joining the Illinois Solar Energy and Storage Association (ISEA) as an ISEA Charter Business Member.


We hope that you will take advantage of this membership benefit opportunity. 


ILLINOIS SOLAR ENERGY AND STORAGE ASSOCIATION DISCOUNT MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITY


Illinois Solar Energy and Storage Association (ISEA) Discount Opportunity for ISEA Charter Membership category.


ISEA business members receive benefits meant to expand understanding and opportunity in renewable energy development in the state. These benefits include: a public profile on the ISEA website, invitations to webinars on topics related to renewable energy development in Illinois, RFP announcements, as well as the opportunity to participate in membership calls.

The ECA has maintained its ISEA Sponsor Organization membership which now confers a membership discount of $200 off of the $1,000 ISEA Charter Membership category to all interested ECA member firms. All ECA members are invited to join the Illinois Solar Energy Association at a discount. Again, ECA member firms can take $200 off of the $1,000 ISEA Individual Charter membership category.


Please email ISEA Executive Director, Lesley McCain at 
lesley.mccain@illinoissolar.org for help facilitating this member discount.


ISEA Charter Membership Benefits:

  • Voting rights in ISEA Board of Directors elections
  • A public profile on the ISEA Find a Professional page
  • ISEA industry-focused newsletter and timely information on policy updates, funding opportunities, and other information relevant to the industry delivered to your email
  • Access to business-only content, such as policy webinars, RFP notifications, and more.
  • Opportunities to sponsor ISEA events
  • Opportunities to promote your business through a profile in ISEA's community-focused newsletter and social media
  • Member discounts to events and training
  • Discounts for partner organizations' classes and events
  • ISEA logo available for your website and communications

 

Please contact the ECA at: (708) 531-0022, if you have any questions regarding the ECA promotion with the ISEA.


ISEA Special Raffle

The Illinois Solar Education Association is currently running an electric vehicle raffle as its major fundraiser. This year, they are raffling off a Rivian. You do not need to be an ISEA member to participate in the raffle.


CLICK HERE FOR RAFFLE OPPORTUNITY!

NECA Premier Partner Update - 3M

3M 35 kV Deadbreak Kit Availability and 2026 Pricing

3M has updated the lead time for its 35kV Separable Connectors, with deadbreak kit availability now set at 2–3 weeks. In addition, 3M has confirmed that there will be no pricing increases for these products in 2026. This update is intended to support improved planning and project scheduling for NECA members nationwide.

Don't Miss Your "Power of Better" Opportunity 
- A message from Powering Chicago -

Powering Chicago was built on partnership, and that includes you. As a signatory contractor, you’re part of a network that’s setting the standard for better construction across Chicago and Cook County. We’re continuing to spotlight the people and companies behind that standard through blogs, videos, social media, and the "The Power of Better" video series.


This is your opportunity to take full advantage of being part of Powering Chicago by promoting your work, your team, and the projects that make you stand out.


Here’s how it benefits you:

  • Professional Credibility
  • Reach future clients online
  • Marketing content you can share
  • Build trust with real examples


Your story has the power to inspire trust, attract new opportunities, and strengthen the entire Powering Chicago network.


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.


Learn more about showcasing your work.

EVENTS

EGC Contractors' Day on July 9 at 

Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton

Shotgun start at 10:00 am


Registrations and sponsorships for this Electric Golf Club (EGC) event are due by July 3 and expected to sell out!


Register for the July 9 outing at Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton. This outing will have a 10:00 am shotgun start followed by dinner and raffle prizes. Bonus Raffle for Contractor Attendees!


SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!

Hole Sponsor — $250.00 per hole

Includes digital recognition through the live scoring app, plus small tee signage on the sponsored hole.

With Contractor Day expected to sell out, hole sponsorships are a great way to showcase your company to one of the largest crowds of the season.

Logos must be submitted to anovinger@eachicago.org by July 3rd to ensure signage is displayed.

 

Gold Sponsor — $500.00

 Includes one hole sponsorship with small tee signage on the sponsored hole, digital recognition through the live scoring app, premier logo signage at check-in, special recognition during the luncheon, and recognition in social media posts.

Logos must be submitted to anovinger@eachicago.org by July 3rd to ensure signage is displayed.

Contact anovinger@eachicago.org to secure your sponsorship.


Join EGC or renew your membership!

Pay your dues online.

  1. Individual Membership Dues: $75.00
  2. NEW Corporate Membership Dues: $600 covers dues for up to 10 EGC Members from your company


As a reminder, you must be an EGC member in good standing to register a foursome for an EGC outing. If you have any questions, please contact Ali Novinger at anovinger@eachicago.org. Cancellations are not guaranteed after July 2.

Special Olympics Construction Team Picnic

July 25, 2026

ECA member, McWilliams Electric Company, Inc. has been in charge of coordinating all of the activities for the Special Olympics Construction Team picnic each year since 2007.


McWilliams not only works on getting monetary donations from our industry partners and friends (which is generally in excess of $20,000 each year) but they also coordinate volunteers to help. They need volunteers the day of the picnic to set up, to run games for the attendees, to cook and serve lunch and to help with clean up. 


Please click the link below for the information for this year’s Special Olympics Construction Team Picnic which is being held on Saturday, July 25th starting at 10:00 am at the IBEW NECA Technical Institute (INTECH) in Alsip, IL.


Please let McWilliams know If you are able to volunteer at this year’s picnic!


Thank you!


CLICK HERE TO VOLUNTEER / DONATE / CONTRIBUTE!


YouTube Videos from past events:

2025 Special Olympics and the Construction Team Picnic


Special Olympics Illinois Construction Team Picnic 2022


Special Olympics Illinois Construction Team Picnic with Powering Chicago and McWilliams Electric

Electric Association Centennial Celebration
August 13, 2026

Join the Electric Association (EA) on Thursday, August 13, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm on the Spirit of Chicago at Navy Pier! Celebrate a century of power, progress, and partnership.


The Electrical Association’s Centennial Celebration will honor 100 years of innovation and impact in Chicago’s electrical industry. This is more than just a milestone—it’s a chance to celebrate the accomplishments, relationships, and people who have shaped our industry and will continue to drive it forward for the next 100 years. Reconnect with colleagues, make new connections, and share the experience—spouses and guests are encouraged to attend! Dress attire is festive and formal. Don’t miss this once-in-a-generation event—get your tickets today! Exclusive event includes dinner, premium bar and two hours of touring Lake Michigan with the fellow leaders of the electrical industry to celebrate 100 years of the Electric Association.

 

Early Discount for EA Members $275 per person (Available through June 15, 2026)

EA Members $300

Non-members $325 per person

 

Please RSVP by July 31, 2026.


Changes and refunds for cancellations are not guaranteed after July 31. This is event is expected to sell out!


REGISTER NOW

ECA Young Professionals 8th Annual Leadership Conference

Thursday, August 20, 2026 - Friday, August 21, 2026

Registration is open for the ECA Young Professionals 8th Annual Leadership Conference! You won't want to miss this event! The Conference is being held at the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel - Milwaukee, WI


Kimpton Journeyman Hotel 310 E Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202


SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

The tentative schedule is as follows:


Thursday, August 20, 2026

Rehlko Facility Tour  
12:00 PM Departure from Kimpton Journeyman Hotel 
1:00– 2:30 PM Tour 
3:30 PM Return to Hotel

Join us on a faculty tour that will include an educational session that will cover a high-level view of Rehlko as a business, including their history, product offerings, the different spaces they work in, and future outlook.

3:00 PM Guaranteed Hotel Check-in Time 
6:00 – 10:00 PM Reception & Dinner

 

Friday, August 21, 2026

8:00-9:00 AM Breakfast 
9:00-10:00 AM Shane Yount – Chairman, Competitive Solutions, Inc – Process Based Leadership 
10:00-11:00 AM Jessica Cardenas – ELECTRI International update and overview 
11:00 AM -12:00 PM Carl Britton – Iron Thread Consulting – AI for Project Managers 
12:00-12:45 PM Hotel Check-out/Lunch Break 
12:45-4:00 PM Continued: Carl Britton – Iron Thread Consulting – AI for Project Managers


When registering, please indicate if you're staying at the hotel, as well as indicate if you're participating in the Rehlko Tour. Registration ends on July 14, 2026. However, please contact Taylor Kershaw at the ECA office to check on availability. Tkershaw@ecachicago.com (618) 975-0833.


We look forward to seeing you in Milwaukee!

 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

NECA Convention Registration is Open!
Mandalay Bay - Las Vegas - October 4 - 7, 2026

Celebrate 125 Years of NECA!
The NECA Convention & Trade Show is coming to Las Vegas!

Visit www.necaconvention.org for more details and to register.


Convention Stipend

The ECA Executive Committee approved the stipend of the Registration Fee for up to two representatives and their guests from each ECA member firm that registers for the Convention. The registrations will be reimbursed to the applicable companies after the Convention.


Registration

Registration is open; please visit www.necaconvention.org to register for the NECA Convention/Accommodations. Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino is located at 3950 South Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV.

The regular "in-person" NECA Convention registration fee is $2,300 per NECA member, and $1,460 for the member’s spouse / guest. However, those who register early (cut-off dated August 12) will receive the “early bird” price of $1,925 for members and $1,240 for the member’s spouse / guest. 


The Chicago Chapter Hotel is the Four Seasons Mandalay Bay.


Chicago Chapter Events
                  

For those Chapter members that attend the NECA Convention, the Chicago and Cook County Chapter functions are listed below. 


Saturday, October 3, 2026

“Welcome to Las Vegas” Event

7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Reception (cocktails and heavy hors de oeuvres)

Four Seasons Mandalay Bay

Upper Deck-Pool area


Monday, October 5, 2026 

Chapter Reception / Dinner

7:00 pm start: Reception / Dinner

House of Blues Mandalay Bay

Vinyl Room Lower Lounge and Terrace 


Wednesday October 7, 2026 

Pre-Closing Event Reception

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm  

Reception (cocktails and heavy hors de oeuvres)

Four Seasons Mandalay Bay

Fountain Terrace


After you have registered, please e-mail a copy of your completed registration transaction to the Association office at registration@ecachicago.com.  This will allow us to have a record of your registration information, should you need any assistance after registering. 


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

EDUCATION

ECA Educational and Conference Stipends for 2026

 

The Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago (ECA) Executive Committee has approved a number of educational stipends for many special programs / conferences throughout 2026. All stipends / reimbursements are made after each conference with registration confirmation(s) and applicable receipts forwarded to ECA.  


CLICK HERE FOR LISTING

ECA Educational Programming for 2026


The 2026 Education Programming Schedule is confirmed for 2026. Please click the link below for a full listing with links for registration!


CLICK HERE FOR LISTING

DOCUMENT CRUNCH

ECA Has Renewed for 2026

The Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago (ECA) has renewed the Document Crunch service for the membership for 2026. Please review the information below and register for this unique service!


Document Crunch’s mission is to empower construction teams to confidently make informed decisions that reduce risk and deliver better project outcomes. Their AI Risk Reduction Platform is built specifically for construction and gives teams the power to review documents in seconds, guide decisions with best practices, and assist with on-the-job questions and tasks. Document Crunch and NECA/ELECTRI have partnered to offer an exclusive solution that enables those better project outcomes for your business.


Faster Reviews

CrunchAI greatly reduces contract review times, typically done in just a few minutes!


Unmatched Insight

Deep and thorough AI-driven analysis of your contract gives a holistic view, benchmarked against 12 common areas of risk for electrical contractors.

Top 12 Contract Issues for Trade Contractors:

1.          Pay if Paid

2.          Right to Stop Work

3.          Consequential Damages

4.          Liquidated Damages

5.          Liability Caps

6.          Indemnity

7.          Delays

8.          Subsurface Conditions

9.          Hazardous Materials

10.       Design Responsibility

11.       Payment Terms

12.       Material Price Escalation


Understand Major Issues

Generative AI summaries provide easy consumption and understanding. Quickly learn if the contract language meets NECA best practices.


Suggested Redlines

For issues that fall short of best practice, CrunchAI creates and suggests language alternatives to bring the contract up to standard.


ECA members, who sign up for the service have exclusive access to an ELECTRI-specific solution of Document Crunch that will assess your contracts and quickly identify these top 12 critical risk provisions within your contracts. As part of the ELECTRI Document Crunch partnership, the platform’s enhanced benchmarking service is available to you to understand your levels of risk related to your peers.


Document Crunch


Click Here for Demo Video 



Sign Up for Access


Click Here for recent Update.


If any questions, please contact Miah Veselinovic, Document Crunch at: mveselinovic@documentcrunch.com.

FREE Safety Training - 2026

CSC is offering a series of complimentary programs!

The Construction Safety Council (CSC) been awarded an OSHA grant to support local delivery of five high-demand training topics:


  • Workzone Hazards
  • Excavation Dangers
  • Harmful Silica
  • Fall Protection
  • Electrical Safety

 

Each session includes four hours of in-person instruction, which requires a 4.5 timeline for delivery (e.g., 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.). This Awareness-Level training is available to employers and employees, locally or nationwide. Their trainers are subject matter experts, who will engage participants in interactive lectures, demonstrations, and discussions about construction workplace hazards and risk-prevention strategies.

 

The ECA is proud to join the CSC in sponsoring these training opportunities. Due to the availability of federal grant funding, all materials and instruction are available AT NO COST. The training is FREE OF CHARGE for all ECA members.


  • OPEN ENROLLMENT courses hosted by CSC in Hillside, Illinois – 2026 training dates will be available at www.buildsafe.org after December 15.
  • PRIVATE courses hosted by ECA members – at any time, on any day, at any location.


If any questions, please contact the CSC at: (708) 449-8604.


We hope that you will take advantage of the opportunity to participate with these sessions!

Culture of Collaboration Workshop


Transforming Our Industry Together: Introducing the DEI Program for ECA of Chicago


The ECA is continuing its exciting journey to shape our future with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at its core. We've partnered with Leadership Surge to bring a specially designed DEI program to the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA) of Chicago, and you’re invited to be a part of this transformative experience.


Please use the scheduling form below to secure a date and register your companies for the live 2-hr DEI Training session:

 

Scheduling Form

 

The goal is to have each company choose their preferred training and capture their contact information and preferred training location.

 

Here’s what's in store for us:

  • Tailored Training Sessions: From senior leadership to our valued front-line employees, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to dive into interactive sessions that will empower us to lead and participate in a more inclusive workplace.

 

  • Engaging Learning Formats: Whether it's live workshops or on-the-go learning through a mobile app, this program offers flexible ways to engage with DEI principles. Plus, Toolbox Talks will bring DEI conversations right into our daily routines.

 

  • A United Effort: This isn't just training; it's a movement towards building a workplace where every voice is heard and every contribution valued. We're not just aiming for compliance; we're striving for commitment and change.


Program Intro

Industry Partners

IMSCA PAC Funding Drive


Your voice matters in Illinois! 

By contributing to the IMSCA Political Action Committee (PAC), you help support candidates and initiatives that align with the values and goals of IMSCA. Any contribution, no matter the level of support, is incredibly helpful. We hope that you will consider a contribution.



Click Here for further information.

IMSCA / Illinois Legislative Updates


IL Chris Nybo State Lobbyist (9/26/26)


IL Chris Nybo State Lobbyist (6/19/26)

Click Here for Legislative Update (6/1/2026)


Click Here for Legislative Update (5/22/26) IL (Chris Nybo State Lobbyist (5/22/26)


Click Here for Legislative Update (5/15/26) IL (Chris Nybo State Lobbyist (5/15/26)


Click Here for Legislative Update (5/1/2026) IL Update (Chris Nybo State Lobbyist (5/1/26)


Click Here for Legislative Update (4/24/26) IL Update (Chris Nybo, State Lobbyist)4/24/26


Click Here for Legislative Update (4/17/26)


Click Here for Legislative Update (4/10/26) IL Update (Chris Nybo, State Lobbyist)4/10/26


With Mental Health Awareness Month coming up in May, I wanted to personally share some resources to help you raise awareness, drive engagement, and ensure your team knows about the support available through AllOne Health. We’re here to partner with you every step of the way to make this month meaningful for your organization.

 

To make it easy, we’ve put together a Mental Health Awareness Month Toolkit you can use right away. It includes:

  • A kick-off announcement message + video
  • Weekly outreach communications (copy/paste ready)
  • Links to resource guides and upcoming webinars
  • Clear instructions for use


All materials are on an easy-to-access, easy-to-share landing page, designed to help you highlight mental health support across your organization.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)


ECA's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) partner, AllOne Health, has launched a new Member Portal on March 2, 2026. The updated portal is easier to use and aligned with the AllOne Health App, making it simple to access counseling, mental health resources, and well-being support.


What’s new:

  • A refreshed, user-friendly portal
  • Easier access to EAP and well-being services
  • One login for both the app and the portal


Starting March 2, you can access services at AllOneHealth.com/portal.


You may notice that new materials reference updated landing pages. If employees use an existing or bookmarked link, it will automatically redirect to AllOneHealth.com/portal beginning March 2—no action needed.


If you already use the AllOne Health App, log in with the same credentials. If not, create an account—your login will work for both the app and the portal.


Please review the attached flyer for sign-up instructions and watch the short orientation video here:

👉 Orientation Video

Confidential support remains available 24/7 for employees and their household members.


 Check out the new AOH App!

EP 21: Inside Mission-Critical Electrical Work at O’Hare Terminal 3


Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport is undergoing a major transformation through the ongoing Terminal 3 renovation project, a complex infrastructure effort requiring phased construction, continuous electrical reliability, and coordinated work within one of the world’s busiest airports.

Powering Chicago member contractor Maron Electric Company is helping support critical airport infrastructure upgrades while maintaining daily airport operations throughout construction.


Watch Now

CSC Safety Update


The Construction Safety Council offers it Quarterly update called, "Workplace Stretching for Construction Workers" by Herbert Post, Tradesafe publication / Robert Lahey, Chicagoland Construction Safety Council.


CLICK HERE for the Above Report.


CLICK BELOW FOR NEWEST REPORT:

"Spring has Sprung! Summer Heat is Next!"

NECA Safety


Throughout this monthly series, the NECA Risk Management Executive Directors of Safety will discuss specific topics within electrical construction safety


OH&S Webinar: The State of Electrical Safety


NECA SAFETY ROUNDUP!

Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention


It is an unfortunate fact that construction has the highest rate of suicide of any industry in America. We lose about 53 out of every 100,000 members of our industry EVERY YEAR to suicide. We are four times the average of other industries. We have a crisis in construction and we need to do something about it. You can visit the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention website and learn more. We urge all to take the pledge to STAND UP for suicide prevention and address it as a health and safety priority.

SAVE THE DATES

July


July 25, 2026

Special Olympics Construction Team Picnic

IBEW NECA Technical Institute (INTECH)

Alsip, IL

August


August 14, 2026

ECA Summer Social

Offshore Rooftop at Navy Pier



August 20 - 21, 2026

ECA Young Professionals 8th Annual Leadership Conference

Kimpton Journeyman Hotel

Milwaukee, WI


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