ECA News & Events Update | | ECA September Membership Meeting Highlights
September 9, 2026 | |
The Electrical Contractors’ Association of City of Chicago’s (ECA’s) September Membership meeting was held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Maggiano’s Banquets in Oak Brook, IL. This was a breakfast session that featured a number of industry updates and Committee reports. The program featured Chris Nybo, ECA State Lobbyist, Chris Nybo LLC as the guest speaker. The ECA also welcomed its newest member firm, 93 Energy! The overall program was highlighted by a special award presentation.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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Special Retirement Reception for Mark Thomas
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Mark your Calendar!
Please join us for a Special Retirement Reception for Mark Thomas!
The event will be held as follows:
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Pella Signature
720 Village Center Dr.
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
(Open House format)
The Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago (ECA) wishes to acknowledge Mark Thomas’s efforts over his many years of dedication to serving ECA and its members as Executive Vice President of ECA.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
| Upcoming NECA Virtual Classroom Programs | | |
Thank you for your continued interest in NECA’s Basic Estimating and Advanced Estimating Virtual Classroom programs!
We still have a few spots available in the upcoming sessions. Registration is still very limited so don’t delay!
Below are the registration links:
Advanced Estimating Strategies
Monday, September 14- Thursday, September 17, 2026| 12:30 PM - 3:30PM ET
Basic Estimating of Electrical Construction
Tuesday, October 13- Friday, October 23, 2026 | 10:00 AM -12:00 PM ET
Registration for these programs is on a first come, first served basis. In the event a program sells out, and you wish to be added to the wait list for that instance, please email education@necanet.org
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IMSCA Update
Capital Development Board's Proposed
Amendments to the Illinois Energy Codes
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The September 11, 2026 issue of the Illinois Register included a notice concerning proposed rules for the Illinois Energy Codes from the Capital Development Board. Please click the link below to find the pertinent section from the Illinois Register for your review. Additionally, the summary of these proposed updates is listed below. The IMSCA Board wanted this information to be shared for everyone's general benefit and awareness.
Description of Proposed Rules
The CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD proposed amendments to the Part titled Illinois Energy Codes (71 IAC 600; 50 Ill Reg 13263) in accordance with the Energy Efficient Building (EEB) Act and its required updates to CDB building codes. The rulemaking updates the Illinois Energy Conservation Code, which applies to all commercial and residential building projects, and the Illinois Stretch Energy Code, which applies to projects authorized or funded by CDB and is optional for municipalities, by incorporating the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with Illinois-specific adaptations approved by CDB. Adaptations to the Stretch Energy Code for commercial buildings that will be effective on 12/31/26 include standards for building envelope and prevention of air leakage, including a requirement for an enclosed vestibule; updated requirements for electric infrastructure in buildings with fossil fuel powered heating/cooling systems, water heaters, and other appliances that allows for future installation of heat pumps and other electrically powered appliances; additional efficiency, renewable and load management requirements; requirements for simulated building performance; updates to the passive building compliance option; and updated requirements for electric vehicle infrastructure, demand responsive controls, electric energy storage; and total building performance for commercial buildings. Amendments to Appendix C, the Stretch Energy Code requirements for residential buildings, are also effective 12/31/26 and include updates to building envelope requirements, electrical power and lighting systems, simulated building performance, additions, alterations and repairs of existing buildings, alternative compliance methods, duct and ventilation requirements, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, demand-responsive controls, electric ready provisions, renewable energy infrastructure, and all-electric provisions for residential buildings. New construction projects authorized or funded by CDB and municipalities that have adopted the Stretch Energy Code are affected.
CLICK HERE FOR PROPOSED RULES
Capital Development Board's Industry Advisory Committee:
Surveys and Information
The State of Illinois is currently updating its Model Procurement Code. Mr. Morris is a member of the committee tasked with updating Chapter 5, which covers construction procurement. CDB had previously initiated this survey, and Mr. Morris believes the collected feedback will offer valuable insights for the committee’s work. Accordingly, he shared the attached slide deck and the survey links below.
You are encouraged to share the slide deck and the links below broadly.
Fill | Construction Procurement Survey
Fill | State A/E Project Participation Survey
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IAEI South Suburban Division Meeting
Thursday, September 17th, 2026, at 6:00 PM, held at:
IBEW-NECA Technical Institute (IN-Tech)
6201 West 115th Street
Alsip, IL 60803
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Opening Presentation:
George Mostardini, Chris Rawson and James Dudley will be presenting on NEC Article 230, the NEC development process, and proposed changes from Code-Making Panels 4 and 16.
George serves on NEC Code-Making Panel 4, while Chris serves on Code-Making Panel 16. Both are electrical industry experts and board members of the IAEI South Suburban Division. James Dudley will also join George and Chris as a presenter for this important Code discussion. This presentation will review NEC Article 230 service requirements and explain the NEC development process, including proposed changes and related Public Inputs and Public Comments.
The presentation will include:
• NEC Article 230 service requirements and common inspection concerns.
• An overview of the NEC development and revision process.
• CMP 4 updates covering renewable energy and interconnected power systems.
• CMP 16 updates covering communications, fiber-optic and low-voltage systems.
The presenters will provide inspectors, contractors, and electricians with practical insight into how proposed Code changes may affect future electrical installations, inspections, and enforcement.
For Registration, please contact:
Matthew Stolspart, IAEI South Suburban Division President
Email: stolspart@gmail.com
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Sixth Annual Electric Association Golf Outing
12:00 pm Shotgun Start, Scramble
Monday, September 21, 2026
Royal Fox Country Club
REGISTER FOR The Electric Association Golf Outing at Royal Fox Country Club
The Electric Association is a forum to support and strengthen the relationships that grow the electrical industry of Chicagoland. Don't miss the opportunity to build relationships with professionals and decision makers in all segments of the industry.
Royal Fox Country Club
4405 Royal and Ancient Dr.
St. Charles, IL 60174
10:30 am Registration Opens
11:00 am Lunch and Networking
12:00 pm Shotgun Start, Scramble Format
Dinner and prizes immediately following golf.
- Lunch, Golf, Prizes, Dinner and Networking
- Attendee List shared with attendees before the event to support your relationship building
- Join us to support your Electric Association and continue to celebrate our Centennial Year!
Registration fee includes lunch, golf, and dinner with prizes.
- $290 per person for EA member attendees
- $315 for non-member attendees.
Register on your own or as a foursome, spots are filling fast!
Sponsorships avaialable for 2026! Contact anovinger@eachicago.org to secure your spot by NOON on MONDAY, September 14 to be included in signage.
If you have any questions, please contact Ali Novinger at anovinger@eachicago.org.
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CBC Riverfront Exchange
Thursday, October 8, 2026
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Taste 222
222 N. Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606
Join CBC for a casual, high-value mixer designed to spark real conversations and meaningful connections. Whether you’re looking to build partnerships, discover new collaborators, or lay the foundation for future projects, this annual CBC event is the place to be following its highly successful launch last year. As Chicagoland’s premier networking event celebrating diversity in the built environment, the CBC Riverfront Exchange brings together associations, organizations, and companies that champion diversity. The event showcases success stories, fuels collaboration, and highlights the impact we can achieve together. Hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and networking are included. Connect with a curated mix of decision-makers, innovators, and doers—and groove to a live jazz trio— at one of CBC's flagship events.
CLICK HERE FOR REGISTRATION INFORMATION (FEE/SPONSORSHIPS).
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"Advanced Estimating Strategies"
Monday, September 21, 2026 - Tuesday, September 22, 2026
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
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The Electrical Contractors’ Association of City of Chicago (ECA) Research and Education Committee is proud to sponsor the "Advanced Estimating Strategies" seminar on Monday, September 21, 2026 - Tuesday, September 22, 2026 from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm (each day) at the IBEW-NECA Technical Institute (INTECH) at 6201 W. 115th Street, Alsip, IL 60803 - (708) 389-1340. Breakfast & Lunch are to be served. (A Continental Breakfast is to be available at 7:45 am). The session is to be facilitated by Michael Bill, NECA Education.
Advanced Estimating Strategies:
Developed to discuss all phases of the estimating process, this course covers all phases of preparing a competitive bid. Key topics include identifying desirable bid opportunities, analyzing the company's capabilities to insure profitable results, the estimator’s role at various stages of the project, writing an effective scope letter and identifying often hidden costs in the bid documents.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
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"Prefabrication and Preplanning Construction"
Thursday, October 15, 2026.
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
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The Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago (ECA) Research and Education Committee workshop called, "Prefabrication and Preplanning Construction" is being conducted by Mark Federle, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for the OPUS College of Engineering at Marquette University, and the program will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. at the IBEW-NECA Technical Institute (INTECH) at 6201 W. 115th Street in Alsip, IL 60803 (708) 389-1340. Breakfast & Lunch are to be served. (A Continental Breakfast is to be available at 7:45 am.)
Prefabrication and Preplanning Construction
Prefabrication can save an electrical contractor time and money, but what do you prefab? And how do you tackle the preplanning required to even get out of the gate? This program will discuss tactics to aid those at any step of the prefabrication process in optimizing their preplanning and increase their prefabrication efficiency. This program is based on an ELECTRI International research report.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
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“Understanding NFPA 70B Standard for
Electrical Equipment Maintenance"
Friday, October 23, 2026
8:00 am - 10:00 am
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On behalf of the Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago (ECA) and the Northeastern IL Chapter, NECA Safety Committees, a Joint Safety Forum called, "Understanding NFPA 70B Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance" will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at the IBEW-NECA Technical Institute (INTECH). Local #134 IBEW Business Agent, George Mostardini will be the facilitator.
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"Managing Work in Progress"
Thursday, November 12, 2026.
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
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The Electrical Contractors’ Association of City of Chicago (ECA) Research and Education Committee is proud to sponsor the "Managing Work in Progress" seminar on Thursday, November 12, 2026 from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm at Maggiano's Banquets - 240 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL - Barbarossa Room) (630) 368-0300. (Breakfast to be available at 7:45 am). The session is to be facilitated by Doug Reitz, Maxim Consulting Group.
Managing Work in Progress
Many project managers lack a clear handle on how their projects are performing financially. Most commonly it is because they have not been trained on how to forecast properly. We find many contractors struggle with how to build a robust cost projection process that provides for consistency and predictability. Profit fade at 90% complete is no longer an option in today’s market. Teach project manager how to properly set up job budgets, track progress and forecast accurately. Moreover, learn critical financial indicators that point to problems on projects early so they can be rectified.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
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ECA Resume Retrieval Through “Handshake” Portal
Opportunity for ECA members to receive resumes from
college students interested in Electrical Construction Industry
The Electrical Contractors’ Association Student Committee approved that the ECA receive resumes via the “Handshake” system from college students interested in the Electrical Construction Industry. “Handshake” is a resume retrieval portal consisting of hundreds of colleges throughout the country. The ECA can now receive resumes from the following institutions:
City Colleges of Chicago
Illinois Institute of Technology
Indiana University Bloomington
Michigan State University
Northwestern University
Triton College
University of Illinois Chicago
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Please review the ECA job description that is posted within “Handshake” (CLICK HERE). This criteria was compiled by the ECA Student Committee to be applicable to any ECA member’s needs. If you have suggestions for the general job description, please forward to Tim Taylor at: ttaylor@ecachicago.com for review.
Please CLICK HERE for information regarding Fall Job Fairs (MTU, Purdue, UIC, IIT).
If you would like to receive resumes as they come in, please click the link below to be added to the e-mail list.
CLICK HERE TO BE ADDED TO E-MAIL LIST.
| ComEd Service Installation & Upgrades Portal (SIUP)
Now Available | |
ComEd has recently introduced its new Service Installation & Upgrades Portal (SIUP), a digital platform designed to simplify and enhance how customers, contractors, and electrical professionals request and manage new or upgraded electric services.
Through SIUP, users can:
- Submit new service and service upgrade requests through a guided online application.
- Track project status and milestones in real time.
- Upload documents and communicate directly with assigned project teams.
- Access all project information through a centralized, self-service portal.
- Reduce reliance on paper forms, phone calls, and email-based processes.
ComEd believes SIUP offers meaningful benefits for the electrical contractors who regularly coordinate with ComEd on service-related projects.
Please click on the links below regarding ComEd's SIUP effort:
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Chicago’s 2026 Procurement Symposium
Monday, October 19, 2026
Malcolm X College | 1900 West Jackson Blvd
10AM - 3PM (Doors open at 9:30AM)
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Chicago’s 2026 Procurement Symposium is your chance to connect directly with the people and programs that shape City contracting. The Department of Procurement Services (DPS) will host its annual high-impact, in-person event designed to help businesses connect, compete, grow, and succeed. Whether you’re exploring your first City contract or expanding your footprint, this is the room where opportunities happen.
Walk the exhibitor hall to meet City departments, sister agencies, assist agencies, prime contractors, financial partners, and other key resources all in one place. Join panels and breakouts led by City leaders, prime firms, and local entrepreneurs to learn how to navigate procurement, strengthen your certifications, and position your business to win. Then take part in a dedicated matchmaking session that pairs small and diverse businesses with certified primes for one-on-one conversations about real project opportunities—helping you move from introduction to contract.
If you do business with the City, want to do business with the City, or support businesses that do, this is your must-attend event of the year. Seats and matchmaking slots are limited, so register now to secure your spot at the 2026 Procurement Symposium.
REGISTER HERE
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Strengthen ECA’s Voice in Springfield
Monthly Dues Deduction Reminder /
ECAPAC Voluntary Contributions
We need your assistance!
Over the past two years, ECA members have faced significant legislative threats in Springfield. As we enter an important election cycle, increased political engagement is critical to protecting electrical contractors and ensuring that ECA can advocate effectively before state policymakers.
DUES DEDUCT
Currently, only about one-third of ECA members contribute to the ECAPAC, meaning dozens of member firms are not yet participating. Broader participation would significantly strengthen ECA’s voice in Springfield. Members may authorize up to 2% of their monthly ECA dues payment to be allocated to the ECAPAC. This does not increase the amount of dues owed; it simply directs a portion of the existing dues payment to the PAC. To participate, please click on the link below to complete the authorization form and return it to the ECA office at: ttaylor@ecachicago.com.
Again, contributing to the ECAPAC via the 2% dues deduction is at no cost to the contractor member; the ECA needs the authorization to deduct the 2% amount when the ECA receives the member company’s dues payment.
CLICK HERE FOR FURTHER DETAILS / DUES DEDUCT AUTHORIZATION FORM
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NECA Educational Resources
NECA Education has compiled a listing of their most popular educational programs within the following categories:
- In Person
- Virtual Classroom
- On-line / On-Demand
- Business Skills
- NECA & Compliance
The Chicago Chapter holds around 8 – 10 “in-person” educational programs throughout the year. We thank the ECA Research and Education (R & E) Committee for their continued efforts to bring premier programming to the membership. Please review the “NECA Education Greatest Hits Course Guide” (link below). After your review, please let us know your thoughts on future programming. The ECA R & E Committee will be meeting in early Fall to plan out the 2027 Education Schedule. Please e-mail ttaylor@ecachicago.com with your suggestions.
Thank you for your assistance!
GREATEST HITS COURSE GUIDE
| | Illinois's 2026 Prevailing Wage Rates Published | | |
Dear IMSCA Members,
The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) has published the 2026 prevailing wage rates for construction trades in every county across Illinois. Official press release can be found HERE.
The updated rates took effect Wednesday, July 15, 2026, following IDOL's annual statewide survey conducted in June pursuant to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act.
The Act requires workers on publicly funded construction and infrastructure projects to be paid wages that reflect local standards. By ensuring workers receive locally prevailing wages, the law helps protect good-paying jobs, promotes fair competition among contractors, and keeps taxpayer investments supporting Illinois workers and communities.
Each year, IDOL determines prevailing wage rates by reviewing total compensation—including hourly base wages and annualized fringe benefits—commonly paid to workers performing similar work on public works projects within each locality.
"Illinois' prevailing wage law helps ensure that public investments create quality jobs while maintaining a level playing field for responsible contractors," said Illinois Department of Labor Director Jane Flanagan. "Publishing these rates provides the transparency contractors, workers, and public agencies need as they plan and complete construction projects across our state."
Individuals who wish to object to the posted 2026 prevailing wage rates must submit a written objection to the Department by August 14, 2026. If an objection is received, it will be heard by an Administrative Law Judge.
To view the 2026 prevailing wage rates by county and construction trade, visit the Illinois Department of Labor's Prevailing Wage Act Rates webpage.
Best regards,
Daniel, Neil, and Sean Flynn
IMSCA
600 S. Second Street, Suite 102
Springfield, IL 62704
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IMSCA Prevailing Wage Update
As you know, effective July 1, 2026, contractors performing prevailing wage work in Illinois must comply with the apprentice fringe benefit requirements under HB 2488. IDOL's position is that while union apprentices may still be paid reduced apprentice wage rates, they must receive the same fringe benefit package as the applicable journeyman classification on prevailing wage projects. IMSCA has put together a FAQ about the matter (click link below). Any questions on IMSCA's FAQ, please contact Daniel Fynn at: dflynn@neilflynnlaw.com.
CLICK HERE FOR IMSCA'S FAQ
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Prevailing Wage in Illinois
Communication Apprentice Adjustment Effective July 1, 2026
The following concerns any Prevailing Wage work done in Illinois under the Communications Agreement as of July 1, 2026:
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, with the exception of NEBF. While this new report will use the JW rate as the basis for calculations, employers need only pay the appropriate apprentice wage scale for your apprentices plus the excess NEBF contribution, as illustrated below. EIT’s reporting system can only calculate the correct journey-level fringe benefits by populating the JW rate of $53.64, but this is not the wage that employers are required to actually pay.
For NEBF, employers will be required to pay an additional amount of money on the apprentices wages in order to make up the difference between what a JW is owed for the NEBF contribution versus what an apprentice would ordinarily be owed. To calculate the additional amount needed for the wage, you simply divide the difference between the JW NEBF contribution and the normal apprentice NEBF contribution by 1.03.
For the Vacation contribution, apprentices must receive the same $1.50 per hour contribution as JWs when performing work on a project covered by the Prevailing Wage Act.
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Prevailing Wage in Illinois
"A" Apprentice Adjustment Effective July 1, 2026
The following concerns any work done in Illinois under Prevailing Wage as of July 1, 2026:
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, with the exception of NEBF. 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 plus the excess NEBF contribution, as illustrated below. 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.
For NEBF, employers will be required to pay an additional amount of money on the apprentices wages in order to make up the difference between what a JW is owed for the NEBF contribution versus what an apprentice would ordinarily be owed. To calculate the additional amount needed for the wage, you simply divide the difference between the JW NEBF contribution and the normal apprentice NEBF contribution by 1.03.
For example – a JW working 1 hour at the straight time rate of pay is entitled to $1.89 towards NEBF ($63.15 x 3%), vs. a 40% apprentice working one hour at the straight time rate of pay who is owed $0.76 ($25.26 x 3%). The difference between the two is $1.13. If you divide $1.13 by 1.03, you need only pay an additional $1.10/hour on the apprentices wage in order to match the JW’s $1.89 contribution. This formula accounts for the 3% of gross wages contribution that applies to the new, higher wage resulting from the change in law.
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This formula works for shift, overtime, and double time premiums as well. For example – the NEBF contribution for a JW working 1 hour of double time is $3.78, whereas a 40% apprentice working the same would normally receive $1.51. For an employer to pay the $3.78 NEBF contribution that is now required under the law, you need only pay an additional $2.20 on the check (additional $2.20 on the check plus $1.58 NEBF contribution = $3.78).
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.
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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.
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!
CLICK HERE for the promotional flyer and meeting links - so members can register for a session that works best for them.
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!
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ALLOne Health – Sexual Harassment Prevention (IL Requirement)
Illinois law requires every employer to provide annual sexual harassment prevention training. The 2026 training module for ECA- Electrical Contractors Association, IL is now available in the AllOne Health Portal. AllOne Health hasd put together a short (3-minute) video announcing the rollout and showing how employees can get started. Please share it with your HR team, managers, and any other stakeholders who should know this is underway.
Click Below for module:
Announcing Illinois Sexual Harassment Training Module
In the video, your team will see
• Why this training is required under Illinois law
• Where to find it in the AllOne Health Portal
• How new and returning users log in
• Who to contact with questions
Your organization's company code is: ecaeap
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Suicide Prevention Resources for Employers
The article, "Suicide Prevention Resources for Employers" reviews some of the ways AllOne Health can work directly with your organization in September (and throughout the year). It also includes resources with recommendations of who to share them with:
Special observances are an opportunity to build awareness and remind everyone that their Assistance Program is here to help. Services are free, confidential, available to family me
mbers, and easily accessible 24/7 by visiting Member Support.
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Back to School Support
The start of the school year brings a wave of new stress for many families, from adjusting to new routines to managing the demands of school, work, and home.
ALLOne Health has a "Back To School Support Is Here" flyer, with resources for students, parents, and teachers alike. It's a helpful reminder that support for stress, burnout, along with life management referrals, is easily available through their AllOne Health benefits.
Special moments like the start of the school year are a good opportunity to remind everyone that their Assistance Program is here to help. Services are free, confidential, available to family members, and easily accessible 24/7 by visiting Member Support.
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REMINDER
Membership Discount in the Illinois Solar Energy and
Storage Association (ISEA)
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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.
| | 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.
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NECA Convention Registration is Open!
Mandalay Bay - Las Vegas - October 4 - 7, 2026
Early Bird Pricing Closes August 12
Contact ECA if Four Seasons Rooming Block
no longer appears in Registration Que (see below).
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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 remains open; however...After the deadline of August 12, 2026, unused rooms will be released, and new reservations will be subject to availability within the overall NECA hotel block. Our chapter has sold out of its room block, guests can place themselves on the waitlist. After the deadline, NECA / CMR will work on the waitlist with any released rooms. Guests will be notified if they are able to fulfill the requests.
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 registered early (cut-off dated August 12) received 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
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Congratulations / Recognition of:
Ken Bauwens, Jamerson & Bauwens Electrical Contractors, Inc.,
Induction into the Academy of Electrical Contracting – and
Mark Thomas, ECA Executive Vice President on his upcoming retirement.
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Hazel Coffee & Cocktails area – Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
(Just off of the main Mandalay Bay elevators)
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.
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Women Build Electrical Industry Build Day
October 16, 2026 | | |
On Friday, October 16th in Chicago, Habitat for Humanity Chicago is hosting its first-ever Women Build – Electrical Industry Build Day. This event will bring together women from across our industry for a day of hands-on service, collaboration, and community impact.
The goal is to form seven build teams (approximately 70 participants), and we would love to have your organization represented. This is a fantastic opportunity for the women on your team to:
· Connect with peers across the industry
· Give back through a meaningful community project
· Showcase the strength, skill, and impact of women in electrical
We encourage you to share this opportunity with your team and support participation from your organization.
Registration link:
Habitat for Humanity Chicago's Women Build Electrical Association Day
Please fill out the form in the link above by July 31, 2026.
Please feel free to forward this invitation to others within your organization who may be interested. Questions? Reach out to Kelsey Miklos at kelsey.miklos@habitatchicago.org.
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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
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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
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DOCUMENT CRUNCH
ECA Has Renewed for 2026
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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.
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FREE Safety Training - 2026
CSC is offering a series of complimentary programs!
Now Extended until December 31, 2026!
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Earlier this year, ECA Chicago announced a partnership with the Construction Safety Council in support of our shared commitment to enhancing and preserving the well-being of Local 134 employers and employees. This unique opportunity for contractors and workers to receive safety training expires December 31, 2026. Courses will continue to be offered at no cost - thanks to federal grant funding from the U.S. Labor Department Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
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.
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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!
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION!
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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
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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.
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IMSCA Summer Issue of Substance Available
The Summer issue of the IMSCA subcontractor-based newsletter is now available. Please click below for the issue.
CLICK HERE FOR SUMMER ISSUE OF SUBSTANCE.
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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
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"Keeping Mission-Critical Facilities Running:
The Importance of Reliable Electrical Infrastructure."
Powering Chicago’s white paper promotion published August 24, 2026
on Crain’s Chicago Business.
CLICK HERE FOR THE LINK
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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.
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