The Future of Electricity and the Future Generation of Electricians
Put on a Performance of Electrical Skills and Industry Innovation
Every Expo is a one-of-a-kind experience and IECRM’s Energy Expo & Wire-Off this year was no exception. More than 300 IECRM contractor members and their staff, prospective students, apprentices, and Wire-Off competitors’ family and friends attended to see innovations in technology, products, and services to the electrical contracting industry. Our 40 next-generation electricians — IECRM apprentices — put on a fast-paced, highly amped-up show of their newly honed skills throughout the day.
The Expo provided an all “in-one-place” opportunity to see the future of electricity as it continues to evolve. Several local and national companies showcased their cutting-edge solutions at this event.
The Expo was a place to learn, network, build valuable new business relationships, and be inspired. Attendees experienced and learned how technology has impacted job site practices, product design, efficiency, improved quality, and a new culture of safety for all skilled trade professionals as well as the end user.
Meanwhile, in IECRM’s state-of-the-art electrical lab the top 40 IECRM Electrical Apprentices were putting their skills and knowledge to the test in LIVE competitions during the day. The top 4th-year apprentice finalist was Michael Curtis of Integrity Electrical Solutions. Michael will now go on to compete at this year’s IEC National Competition in the fall for the National Apprentice of the Year title. Last year’s winning apprentice, as well as the national champion, Mike Lempka of Good Electric, awarded Mike Curtis the much coveted IECRM Wire-Off Champion trophy.
“We definitely have a national title to defend and hopefully win again this year,” says Paul Lingo, IECRM Training Director. “Our 4th year winner, Mike Curtis, will proudly represent us in St. Louis and – no pressure – we hope he will bring home the national title again this year.”
Congratulations to the 2019 IECRM Wire-Off Winners & Competitors! “ We are so very proud of every student who competed and we look forward to seeing the 4th year competitors graduate in June,” said Paul. The IECRM Wire-Off winners for each apprenticeship year are listed below. The competitors in bold will be attending the IEC National Convention & Expo in St. Louis to cheer on Mike as he competes in the national competition.
4th Year Apprentice Category / Instructor
1st place Mike Curtis Integrity Electrical Solutions, LLC Chris Shipp
2nd place Hames McNown Encore Electric, Inc. Chris Shipp
3rd place Jackie Brunton Juniper Mountain Electric Jeff Magee
3rd Year Apprentice Category / Instructor
1st place Cameron Ratcliff CoorsTek Jim Hamilton
2nd place James Randall Winne Encore Electric, Inc Jim Hamilton
3rd place Steve VanDyke J&R Electric Scott Sorensen
2rd Year Apprentice Category / Instructor
1st place David R. Moore Weifield Group Electrical Contracting Scott Dorn
2nd place Kevin Nelson Namaste Solar Josh Johnson
3rd place Noe Flores Integrity Electrical Solutions, LLC Scott Dorn
1st Year Apprentice Category / Instructor
1st place Joshua Westra APCO Electric Mike Lempka
2nd place Taylor Harpham Magee Electric, Inc. Mike Lempka
3rd place Eric D. Hummel Eagle Electric Jerry Barkeen
Jim N Nick’s Barbeque and beverage refreshments were served to all guests thanks to our lunch sponsor IDEAL Industries, and door prizes were awarded during several drawings throughout the day. IECRM contractor members also enjoyed the additional treat of a VIP lounge with special guests and prizes.
IECRM is grateful to its Energy Expo & Wire-Off sponsors:
IDEAL Industries
Allcable, Inc.
Milwaukee Tool Company
Thank you to our valuable partners who donated tools and product for the Wire-Off competition and placeholders:
ABB
Allcable, Inc.
Casey Bergquist
Horizons North Credit Union
IDEAL
Milwaukee Tool Company
Office Sensei
RCOM
Southwire
I-Pro
And more!
Click here to see more photos of this event!