Be Part of The Power of Better: Where Legacy Is Honored, and Foundations Are Built.
- Posted: April 9, 2026
- better construction, Chicago electrical industry, electrical safety standards NFPA 70B, electrical workforce training Chicago, find an electrical contractor Chicago, NFPA 70B electrical maintenance, qualified electrical contractors Cook County
The Power of Better Newsletter celebrates the trailblazers and collaborators who continue to shape electrical construction across Chicago and Cook County. This edition honors the contributions of Black professionals whose leadership has strengthened our industry, and spotlights the women breaking new ground as we move into Women’s History Month. The stories and resources shared here reflect the Powering Chicago standards set by those who came before us and upheld by those building what’s next.
Kendra Dinkins Makes History as President of Electrical Contractors’ Association of Chicago
Taylor Electric Company‘s CEO and President, Kendra Dinkins, has been named the new President of the Electrical Contractors’ Association of Chicago (ECA), making history as both the first African American and the first woman ever to hold the position. A long-time ECA board member, Dinkins brings decades of industry leadership to a role that oversees business and labor relations services for nearly 600 electrical contractors across Cook County, Illinois.
As Women’s History Month reminds us of the barriers broken by generations of determined leaders, Kendra’s appointment stands as a landmark moment for the electrical construction industry.
Congratulations, Kendra!
Powering Progress: How Jason Bonaparte Is Building a Legacy in Chicago’s Electrical Industry
B3 Integrated Solutions President Jason Bonaparte is building electrical systems across Chicago, leaving a legacy defined by long-term impact. Inspired by his father, a Black leader in the electrical industry, Bonaparte has grown B3 Integrated Solutions into a respected union electrical contractor with a workforce that reflects his commitment to diversity and mentorship.
Throughout his career, Bonaparte has focused on empowering the next generation through mentorship and access to the trades. He serves on the board of ACE Amandla Charter High School on Chicago’s South Side, a school his father was involved in founding. The school prepares students for careers in electrical work, carpentry, plumbing, and architecture through a hands-on curriculum that connects classroom learning to real-world experience. By bringing students to active job sites and partnering with major general contractors such as Turner and FH Paschen, the program exposes them to career paths they might not have otherwise considered.
Today, 70% of the B3 Integrated Solutions workforce is made up of diverse employees. This is a point of pride and purpose, and evidence of how access, mentorship, and opportunity can open doors that once seemed impossible. By investing in people and leading with integrity, Bonaparte is honoring his father’s legacy while creating a pathway for the next generation of electricians across Chicago and Cook County. Learn more about Jason’s journey and B3 Integrated Solutions by reading the full story.
Find a Contractor Fact Sheet: How to Evaluate Quality
Choosing a qualified electrical contractor is essential to ensuring project safety, reliability, and cost control. Powering Chicago’s “How to find an Electrical Contractor” Fact Sheet simplifies the contractor selection process and reduces project risk by outlining steps and helpful information needed to make a more informed decision. The fact sheet covers topics including verifying licensing, safety records, project management approaches, and more.
Download the “How to find an Electrical Contractor” fact sheet today.
IAEI Magazine Feature: Advancing Electrical Safety through NFPA 70B and Workforce Training
As electrical systems become more complex and critical to daily operations, preventive maintenance has never been more important. In a recently published contributed content article for the Independent Alliance of the Electrical Industry (IAEI) Magazine, Elbert Walters III, Executive Director of Powering Chicago, examines the newly adopted NFPA 70B, Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance, and its role in establishing safer, more reliable electrical systems through documented Electrical Maintenance Programs (EMPs).
While the standard provides the roadmap, Walters emphasizes that it’s trained professionals who bring it to life through ongoing education and hands-on expertise. This training ensures maintenance is performed safely, accurately, and consistently, while also preparing professionals to apply emerging technologies and meet evolving safety requirements.
When implemented effectively, NFPA 70B reduces unplanned downtime, extends equipment life, improves compliance, and protects both workers and critical infrastructure.
Find an Electrical Contractor For Your Project
Looking for electrical contractors who will prioritize the success and safety of your next project? Powering Chicago’s Find a Contractor tool connects you with licensed, qualified contractors who meet the highest standards for quality, safety, and reliability across Chicago and Cook County.
Use Powering Chicago’s Find a Contractor tool to begin your search today.
