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Press Releases

Google Makes Significant Investment in Electrical Construction Leadership Development

Nov 10, 2026
Funding will support NECA and ELECTRI International’s efforts to prepare the project leaders needed to deliver America’s infrastructure.

The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and ELECTRI International (ELECTRI) today announced a $4 million investment from Google to support NECA and ELECTRI International’s work to expand leadership development opportunities in electrical construction. The investment will help contractors prepare more professionals to plan, coordinate and lead the complex electrical projects supporting the nation’s growing infrastructure needs.

NECA expressed its appreciation for Google’s commitment to strengthening the industry’s workforce and investing in the people responsible for completing critical projects.

“Google understands that investing in America’s infrastructure means investing in the people who make it possible at every level,” said David Long, NECA CEO. “Google is taking a holistic approach to developing our industry’s workforce, from helping people enter the electrical trade to training our professionals in the field and preparing the leaders who guide crews and manage complex projects. We are grateful for that commitment and for Google’s support of NECA and ELECTRI as we create more opportunities for people to enter our industry, build their skills and pursue the career paths they envision for themselves.”

The funding will support the expansion of the NECA/ELECTRI Project Management Apprenticeship and broader leadership development across the electrical project lifecycle. Building on its project management foundation, the expanded offering will provide training in preconstruction and virtual design and construction (VDC), superintendent leadership, start-up and commissioning, and closeout and operations. These efforts will help contractors develop talent within their organizations and give professionals a structured path to greater responsibility, from early planning through project completion.

The existing NECA/ELECTRI Project Management Apprenticeship, a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship, provides a foundation for that work. Its model combines on-the-job learning with virtual instruction, coaching and mentorship, allowing participants to bolster their capabilities while continuing to work for their employers.

As electrical construction projects grow in size and complexity, developing the professionals who lead them is an essential part of workforce development. Project leaders connect planning with field execution, guide teams and help manage safety, quality, schedules and budgets. Expanding access to that training will help contractors prepare experienced employees for new responsibilities and transfer knowledge to the next generation.

This investment by Google validates the importance of a leadership pipeline that will help secure the infrastructure supporting every part of our country. By supporting NECA and ELECTRI International’s work, Google is helping strengthen the industry’s capacity to develop its people alongside the projects they build.

“Our members see the talent and potential within their companies and on jobsites every day,” Long said. “This investment will help more electrical industry professionals turn that potential into opportunity, with the training and support to take the next step in their careers. We thank Google for investing in their future and helping us open more doors across our industry.”

The first cohorts of the expanded program will begin in the second quarter of 2027. To receive program updates and be notified when enrollment opens, complete the interest form here. 

Please visit www.necanet.org/pm-apprenticeship for more information about the Project Management Apprenticeship program.