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News

NECA Innovation Institute: Applications Now Open for 2026 Cohorts

Oct 20, 2025

The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) is proud to announce the opening of applications for the 2026 cohorts of the NECA Innovation Institute (NII). As NECA’s premier program dedicated to advancing innovation within the electrical contracting industry, NII continues to lead the charge in transforming the future of electrical contracting through cutting-edge technology, forward-thinking strategy, and leadership development.

The 2026 program will feature two cohorts:

  • Steinmetz Cohort: April 2026 – April 2027 (Kickoff: April 21–22, 2026)
  • Johnson Cohort: August 2026 – August 2027 (Kickoff: August 26–27, 2026)

Since its inception, the NECA Innovation Institute has been instrumental in empowering NECA contractors and emerging leaders to harness the power of innovation. Through a dynamic blend of education, collaboration, and real-world application, NII provides participants with the tools and mindset to meet the evolving demands of the electrical construction industry.

With 80 industry leaders having completed or currently participating in the program, NII alumni have gone on to transform their companies by implementing groundbreaking business models, embracing digital transformation, improving productivity and safety, and driving cultural change to foster innovation at every level.

Graduates consistently describe the NII experience as transformative, both personally and professionally. The program’s blend of expert coaching, peer-to-peer collaboration, and strategic project work has helped participants reimagine their leadership approach and reenergize their organizations for long-term success.

 

About the NECA Innovation Institute

Participants in the NECA Innovation Institute gain access to a specialized, year-long curriculum focused on leadership growth and applied innovation. Each candidate works closely with expert coaches, industry mentors, and peers across the country to develop and implement a “Capstone Project” within their own organization.

The program is built around four key areas:

  • Technological Integration: Learn how to leverage emerging tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced project management software.
  • Leadership Development: Strengthen the ability to manage change, inspire innovation, and align teams around new technology and processes.
  • Strategic Visioning: Develop forward-thinking strategies to address the electrical industry’s rapidly changing landscape.
  • Collaborative Learning: Connect with like-minded professionals to share ideas, solve complex challenges, and shape the industry’s future.

 

Applications for the 2026 Cohorts Now Open

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Steinmetz and Johnson cohorts. NECA member contractors are encouraged to nominate promising leaders within their organizations who are ready to champion innovation and drive growth. Each participant must be sponsored by an executive within their company to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

To learn more about the program, review eligibility criteria, and submit an application, visit the NECA Innovation Institute website at necanet.org/NII.