The site navigation utilizes arrow, enter, escape, and space bar key commands. Left and right arrows move across top level links and expand / close menus in sub levels. Up and Down arrows will open main level menus and toggle through sub tier links. Enter and space open menus and escape closes them as well. Tab will move on to the next part of the site rather than go through menu items.

Press Releases

NECA Announces Support for Keith Sonderling's Nomination as U.S. Secretary of Labor

Jul 2, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 2, 2026) — The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) today announced its strong support for the nomination of Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling to serve permanently as Secretary of Labor, citing his proven leadership, commitment to workforce development, and steadfast support for Registered Apprenticeships.

In a letter submitted to the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, NECA urged lawmakers to advance Sonderling's nomination, emphasizing the positive impact his leadership has already had on the nation's workforce and the electrical construction industry.

“Acting Secretary Sonderling has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening America’s workforce while providing employers with the clarity, certainty, and support they need to grow and succeed,” said Marco Giamberardino, Chief Communications Officer of NECA. “Under his leadership, Registered Apprenticeships, streamlined program registration, and workforce development have become national priorities, helping ensure America has the highly skilled workforce needed to build, modernize, and expand our nation’s critical infrastructure. We are proud to support his nomination to serve as the next Secretary of Labor and are confident he will continue advancing policies that strengthen opportunities for workers and employers alike.”

During his tenure as Deputy Secretary and Acting Secretary of Labor, Sonderling has championed initiatives that directly benefit the construction industry and the nation's growing workforce needs. Under his leadership, the Department of Labor has elevated Registered Apprenticeships as a cornerstone of its workforce strategy, working toward the Administration's goal of one million apprentices while placing a renewed national focus on apprenticeship opportunities.

NECA also applauded the Department's efforts to modernize the apprenticeship registration process by committing to program registration decisions within 30 days. For electrical contractors facing unprecedented demand for skilled workers amid historic investments in America's infrastructure, energy systems, manufacturing, and data centers, this reform will help accelerate the development of the next generation of electricians.

In addition, NECA recognized Sonderling's decision to revive the Wage and Hour Division's opinion letter program, providing employers with greater regulatory certainty and practical guidance on complex workplace issues. This commitment to transparency helps responsible contractors remain compliant while creating a level playing field across the industry.

“As our nation continues to invest in modernizing the electric grid, expanding domestic manufacturing, and building the infrastructure needed to power the future, a strong partnership between industry and the Department of Labor has never been more important," said James Payne, Executive Director of Government Affairs. “Given his years of experience, Mr. Sonderling has a unique understanding of the challenges facing our membership. He is the man to meet the moment and NECA looks forward to his swift confirmation.”

NECA remains committed to collaborating with the Department of Labor to expand workforce opportunities, strengthen Registered Apprenticeships, and ensure the electrical construction industry has the highly skilled workforce needed to meet the demands of America's growing economy.