IECRM Powered the 51st Annual 9NEWS Parade of Lights

Emilio Fuentes
December 12, 2025
Contractors, IECRM Community Outreach, Partner Spotlight

Independent Electrical Contractors Rocky Mountain (IECRM) members brought the 51st Annual 9NEWS Independent Electrical Contractors Rocky Mountain (IECRM) members brought the 51st Annual 9NEWS Parade of Lights to life on Saturday, December 6th. Twelve IECRM electrical contracting companies showcased the strength and unity of the independent electrical industry by providing company trucks and volunteers to pull parade floats through the crowd-lined streets of Downtown Denver. This collaboration helped continue one of the city’s longest-standing holiday traditions, which draws hundreds of thousands of spectators each year and is broadcast live on 9NEWS, with multiple rebroadcasts throughout December.

Re-watch the 9NEWS Parade of Lights on the following channels:

12/24 at 10:30pm on Channel 9 KUSA
12/24 at 2:30am on Channel 9 KUSA
12/24 at 11am on Channel 20 KTVD

Or on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/GsFexxLMfZ0

IECRM’s participation in the parade began eight years ago through a connection made with the Downtown Denver Partnership to help spread the word that skilled trades are a viable career option. The electrical apprenticeship model allows students to earn while they learn, gain hands-on experience, and graduate with zero debt. This led to the introduction of the IECRM Sparkling Ice Castle float—built by electricians and their apprentices. The dazzling display celebrates the talent, dedication, and craftsmanship of everyone in the electrical trade and highlights a career as a bright, sustainable, and accessible path for anyone willing to put in the work.

Each year, the float features an “Apprince” and “Apprincess”—current IECRM students and electrician apprentices. This year, Francisco Vasquez and April Souther of Montgomery Electric proudly waved to the future electricians throughout the crowd, inspiring the next generation of skilled professionals.

Around 40 IECRM volunteers—including apprentices, members, staff, and their families—walked alongside the Sparkling Ice Castle float. Dressed in light-up electrician uniforms, hard hats, gloves, and branded safety vests featuring parade truck sponsors and Holiday Party sponsors, they helped showcase the electrical industry while putting safety first. Their presence highlighted the importance of safe practices in the trade and gave them the unique experience of being part of a live broadcast on the 9NEWS Parade of Lights.

To celebrate the occasion, more than 200 IECRM members, students, and families came together for a joyful Holiday Party at the Renaissance Denver City Center Hotel. Guests enjoyed delicious appetizers and dinner, lively music, festive kids’ activities, and visits with Santa, the “Apprince,” the “Apprincess,” and “Buddy the Elf.” Fresh-baked cookies, hot cocoa, and prime parade views added to the holiday magic. The evening honored IECRM’s accomplishments and the vital contributions of the electrical industry, while creating a warm and memorable gathering for the entire IECRM community.

IECRM remains committed to advancing the electrical trade through its earn-while-you-learn apprenticeship program, which provides students with real-world experience, a paycheck, and a pathway to a rewarding career. A heartfelt thank-you to the 12 electrical companies that sponsored and pulled floats—and to our Holiday Party sponsors—for helping make this year’s parade and celebration a glowing success!