The Power of Better: July 2025 Newsletter
- Posted: August 13, 2025
- Chicago construction news, CISCO Union Trades Fair, construction workforce development, electrical apprenticeship Chicago, IBEW Local 134, Navy Pier Marina project, powering chicago, renewable energy contractors, skilled trades Chicago, Taylor Electric leadership
Welcome to the July edition of The Power of Better, Powering Chicago’s monthly LinkedIn newsletter! This month, we’re spotlighting the latest efforts driving better construction, better careers, and better communities across Chicago and Cook County. In this edition, you’ll find our newest The Power of Better episode, a featured article in BUILDINGS Magazine, highlights from the CISCO Skilled Trades Fair, the debut of our new Powering Chicago Difference video series, and a brand-new fact sheet to help you find the right electrical contractor for your needs.
Powering an Iconic Marina | The Power of Better Episode 16
In Episode 16 of The Power of Better, Powering Chicago takes you behind the scenes of one of the city’s most complex waterfront projects: Navy Pier Marina. This episode highlights the work of M.J. Electric and IBEW Local 134 electricians as they power a floating marina using 40,000 feet of marine cabling. Viewers will get an inside look at the full prefabrication strategy used to overcome space limitations, the installation of ground fault protection to meet 2026 safety codes, and the challenges of real-time construction in a public space with shifting docks, water exposure, and tight deadlines.
Don’t miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to Powering Chicago’s YouTube channel and watch Episode 16 today.
Partnering with the Right Electrical Contractor: Key Considerations for Commercial Renewable Energy Projects
Powering Chicago Executive Director Elbert Walters III shares practical guidance for selecting the right electrical contractor for commercial renewable energy projects in a recent issue of BUILDINGS Magazine. From EV charging stations to solar panel installations, Elbert outlines six essential factors that can make or break your project’s success. If you’re looking to meet your sustainability goals with confidence, this article is a must-read.
Check out the full article in BUILDINGS Magazine to learn more.
Building Awareness and Opportunity: CISCO’s 2025 Union Construction Trades Fair
Powering Chicago proudly supported CISCO’s 4th Annual Union Construction Trades Fair on July 11, 2025, held at the IBEW Local 134 Union Hall. This event connected over 600 attendees with union apprenticeship programs and skilled trade careers, featuring hands-on activities and direct access to over 30 union-affiliated construction companies and workforce organizations. The fair focused on building awareness and promoting career pathways, especially for high school students, recent graduates, and adults seeking new opportunities in the trades..
Read the full blog here.
The Powering Chicago Difference: Kendra Dinkins of Taylor Electric on Leadership and Legacy
With over a century of service and a legacy of union-trained excellence, Taylor Electric Company is a standout example of what the Powering Chicago network makes possible. In this episode of The Powering Chicago Difference series, Taylor Electric President and CEO Kendra Dinkins shares how the firm’s commitment to quality, community, and collaboration has fueled high-profile projects, from maintaining Soldier Field to supporting EV infrastructure for Cook County.
The Skilled Advantage: Mario Miller and Chicago Builds
Mario Miller, a 25-year IBEW Local 134 member and Chicago Builds instructor, highlights that working in the electrical trade requires much more than just showing up on a job site—you must prioritize safety, constantly develop your skills, and stay ahead with evolving technology. IBEW Local 134 electricians bring years of rigorous training and mentorship to every project, embodying what we call the Skilled Advantage. Discover how the Powering Chicago apprenticeship program can jumpstart your career in the electrical trade.
Looking for a Qualified Electrical Contractor for Your Next Project?
Finding the right electrical contractor is crucial for the success and safety of any project, big or small. Powering Chicago is dedicated to connecting you with highly skilled, rigorously trained, and certified electrical contractors throughout Chicago and Cook County. Our partners uphold the highest standards of quality, safety, and professionalism.
Use our Find A Contractor Tool to find a qualified contractor in Chicago and Cook County for your next project.
