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News

National Electrical Contractors Association Successfully Hosts Largest Trade Show in Association History

Oct 9, 2023

PHILADELPHIA, PA – Returning to the City of Brotherly Love for the second time in five years, the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) held its annual convention and trade show in Philadelphia from September 29, 2023 – October 2, 2023. Welcoming more than 370 exhibiting companies and nearly 10,000 participants to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, NECA Philly 2023 is the largest event NECA has ever hosted. 

“It was truly an electrifying experience,” said NECA CEO David Long. “I'm delighted that our convention saw record-breaking attendance and participation, which speaks to the growing importance and interest in the electrical construction sector. It's a testament to our collective commitment to excellence and innovation.” The goal was to serve NECA’s members and industry peers with dozens of education sessions, insightful keynote speakers, exciting networking opportunities and provide access to hundreds of innovative manufacturers and suppliers. 

“Throughout the convention, we had the privilege of hearing from some of the brightest minds in the field,” exclaimed Long. “Their insights, expertise, and forward-thinking ideas have left us inspired and motivated to take our industry to even greater heights. We've seen groundbreaking innovations, from renewable energy integration to smart infrastructure, and it's clear that our industry is at the forefront of technological advancements that will reshape the way we live and work.” 

With the trade show proven to be a huge success, so was NECA’s Adopt-A-School program. In partnership with the Penn-Del-Jersey NECA Chapter, electrical contractors collectively donated more than $100,000 to the Mercy Career and Technical High School in North Philadelphia. This total included volunteer time and resources to improve campus safety, donated classroom tools and goods as well as monetary funds for educational programs. 

To further NECA’s workforce development efforts, NECA Philly 2023 saw 2,000 electrical apprentices attend the convention and trade show as part of Apprentice Appreciation Day. As one of the most heavily union-supported regions in the country, Philadelphia-area apprentices propelled this Apprentice Appreciation Day to one of the highest attendance marks in NECA history. 

Other exciting segments of NECA Philly 2023 included an opening reception at Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles. Attendees enjoyed great food and music while networking with peers, walking on the field sidelines and exploring the Eagles locker room. The keynote speakers included former college basketball coach Jay Wright, NBA legend Julius ‘Dr. J’ Erving and adventure racer Robyn Benincasa. To conclude the convention, NECA invited attendees to a closing reception featuring a packed REO Speedwagon concert. 

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our attendees, exhibitors, speakers, and sponsors,” said Long. “Your participation and contributions made this event not just possible but exceptional. It's your dedication and enthusiasm that energize this industry, and I'm grateful for your continued support.” 

NECA will hold its 2024 Convention and Trade Show in San Diego from September 28 – October 1 at the San Diego Convention Center.