NECA This Week

NTW 5/18: Safety professionals institute, electricity consumption & more

May 18, 2026

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Industry News

Error Proof: Designing an inherently safe work site helps prevent accidents from the start

Making safety even safer is a continuous goal. Prevention through Design (PtD) is a risk assessment methodology and standard that has helped on the manufacturing and shop floor, construction site and many other locations touching medical, agriculture and beyond. PtD is largely unknown to engineers, safety directors and company managers.

US annual electricity consumption to grow 55% by 2050: NEMA

The group representing electrical equipment manufacturers expects data center energy consumption to grow 300% over the next 10 years. The pace of potential growth is quickening as data center expansion plans continue to be announced.

NECA News

Don't Miss the 2026 Future Leaders Conference

The Future Leaders Conference is back, and it's built for the next generation of leaders ready to level up. Whether you're looking to sharpen your leadership skills, grow your professional network, or bring back fresh ideas your team can actually use, this three-day event delivers on all fronts. Attendees will get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Lighthouse Electric's prefabrication shop, connect with peers from across the country, and walk away with the clarity, confidence, and tools to lead with greater impact.

Registration Open for NECA’s Safety Professionals Institute

NECA’s Safety Professionals Institute (NSPI) is an intensive, three-day learning experience designed for current and up-and-coming safety professionals in the electrical contracting industry. Developed and taught by industry experts, this program provides participants with the “must know” topics to keep our workers safe. The program concludes when participants submit a capstone project tailored to the safety needs of their company. This year’s session will be held October 20-22, 2026 in Washington, D.C.

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NECA CEO featured in Professional Performance 360 Magazine

NECA CEO David Long was recently featured in Professional Performance 360 Magazine, highlighting NECA's Emerging Leaders initiative and the association's commitment to developing the next generation of industry talent. In the article, Long discusses how NECA is investing in people at every level of the organization — connecting emerging professionals with senior leadership mentors, building a stronger talent pipeline, and fostering a culture where leadership development is ongoing and intentional.

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Invest in Your Next Project Manager

NECA/ELECTRI International's Project Management Apprenticeship enrolls new cohorts every month, giving aspiring electrical project managers a clear path forward. Over 52 weeks, apprentices build skills in project planning, financial management, safety, and team leadership through a structured blend of online instruction, real-time coaching, mentorship, and on-the-job learning. With a modern focus on business and data skills, the program is designed to fuel lifelong career growth. Best of all, it's a U.S. Department of Labor-registered apprenticeship and certification!

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