IEC Supports Growth of Electrical Trade at SkillsUSA

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 3, 2018 (Newswire.com) - Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) assembled 20 volunteers among IEC National staff, IEC chapter staff and members, and industry partners to run the Industry Motor Controls contest at the SkillsUSA National Championships. This marks the twentieth year IEC has been involved with the Industry Motor Controls contest for SkillsUSA. The 2018 competition featured 39 of the best and brightest electrical minds from across the country.

The Industry Motor Controls contest tests students on their knowledge of electrical principles, equipment, and industry codes and standards as it relates to the design and installation of motor control systems. Students demonstrate their skills and abilities in applying that knowledge by properly installing motor control equipment and associated enclosures, raceways, pilot devices, and circuitry by accepted industry practice and National Electrical Code^® requirements.

IEC San Antonio Training Director Raul Vasquez and IEC Rocky Mountain Contractor Member Lowell Reith created all of the competition scenarios for the event. These scenarios included a written test, math test, conduit bending challenge, troubleshooting challenge, mock interview, ladder diagram test, and motor control project.

To assist in running the contest, IEC received generous equipment and prize donations from Atkore, American Technical Publishers (ATP), DeWalt, Eaton, Encore Wire, Greenlee, IDEAL, Klein Tools, Legrand, Leviton, Milwaukee Tool, Southwire, and Thomas & Betts. There were also several sponsorships, including Conduit Bending sponsored by IDEAL, Post-Secondary Tools sponsored by Klein Tools, and Secondary Tools sponsored by Southwire.

“This year’s competition was exciting and very close. Several female competitors joined us this year too, one a military veteran,” said Chrissy L. Skudera, IEC director of curriculum development. “On the whole, SkillsUSA brings together a diverse and talented group of competitors across various industry sectors. It’s incredibly rewarding to be involved in this partnership, with the end goal being to ensure America has a skilled workforce.”

About IEC
Established in 1957, IEC is a trade association representing more than 3,300 members with 50 chapters nationwide. Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, IEC is the nation’s premier trade association representing America’s independent electrical and systems contractors. IEC National aggressively works with the industry to establish a competitive environment for the merit shop — a philosophy that promotes the concept of free enterprise, open competition, and economic opportunity for all. Learn more about IEC at www.ieci.org and www.myelectriccareer.com.

Source: IEC National