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Establish a Student Chapter

Steps to Establish a Student Chapter

1. Identify a university with curriculum and programs that relate to the electrical construction industry. Construction Management, Engineering, Business, and general administrative support tracks are an easy fit for NECA Student Chapters. Even if the curriculum or programs do not completely align with the EC industry, there may be opportunities for contractors to provide additional education and training through guest speaking opportunities, capstone support, and more! Additionally, do some research to identify if any contractors have specific ties to the university—these connections could help strengthen outreach at the university. Connections could include alumni or contractors who have completed projects on campus.

2. Connect with the local NECA chapter and its Board of Directors to discuss opportunities to engage with the university. A successful NECA Student Chapter requires support and engagement from the local NECA chapter and contractors. The local NECA chapter and contractors are the gateway for students to build their network, learn about the industry, and explore careers. Before reaching out to the university to start a NECA Student Chapter, the local NECA chapter and its Board of Directors need to grant approval to establish a partnership. When you are presenting to the NECA Chapter’s Board, be sure to highlight the goals and opportunities of establishing a NECA Student Chapter.

Some highlights may include:

  • Establishing a talent pipeline and alumni network of students
  • Connecting students to internships and full-time positions
  • Providing opportunities to show students the industry through jobsite, fabrication shop, and corporate office tours
  • Providing additional Beyond the Classroom education and training to prepare students for a career in the industry

3. Reach out to the university to schedule a partnership meeting. Once there is approval from the local NECA chapter and Board of Directors, it is time to schedule a meeting with the university to discuss partnership opportunities. It is crucial to highlight the benefits for the university to pursue a partnership.

Some materials and information to have prepared:

  • An overview of NECA and unique aspects of the local chapter and contractors
  • A list of courses and programs at the university where NECA contractors could provide additional support and education, such as: jobsite tours and field trips, guest lectures, and industry-specific training
  • An overview of networking and education opportunities that students can access through the NECA Student Chapter
  • An overview of the benefits of student involvement in the nationwide Electrical Contracting Innovation Challenge (ECIC)
  • An overview of how the NECA Student Chapter will connect students to internships and full-time positions
  • Other unique components of the program

Questions to consider:

  • How many students can the NECA Student Chapter support?
  • What are specific benefits that students can expect through involvement in a NECA Student Chapter?
  • How will the local NECA Chapter and contractors support NECA Student Chapter meetings and activities?

If you need marketing or informational material support, please reach out to Anna Jochim by e-mail or call (202) 449-9657.

4. The last step in the process is submitting an official Charter Affiliation Application to the NECA Executive Committee. This application requires the identification of various Points of Contact (POC).

  • Local NECA Chapter Staff Member(s)
  • University Advisor(s): Faculty, Academic Advisors, Industry Partner Coordinators, and/or Career Development Staff
  • The Student Leadership Team: Student Chapter President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer

Once the application is reviewed and approved by the NECA Executive Committee, ELECTRI International will be in contact with the local NECA Chapter to kick-off the new NECA Student Chapter. Should the application not be approved, ELECTRI International will follow up with further information.


Questions

For questions regarding Student Chapters, please contact Anna Jochim.

NECA Student Chapter Application