• Posted: December 23, 2025
• better careers, better communities, better construction, Community Building, Construction Technology, Elbert Walters III, Honor Flight Chicago, IBEW Local 134, Illinois Real Estate Journal, Meade Electric, qualified electrical contractor, REJournals, Renewable Energy, Safety

From honoring heroes to powering innovation, the strength of Chicago’s electrical industry lies in its people. This edition of The Power of Better celebrates the values that unite our network of contractors and electricians: service, craftsmanship, and safety. Discover how Powering Chicago’s sponsorship of Honor Flight Chicago, Meade Electric’s legacy of excellence, and a focus on NFPA 70B compliance continue to move our region forward.

The Power of Better Episode 18: Behind the Scenes of The 2025 NECA Convention

Before the NECA Convention opened its doors in Chicago, Powering Chicago signatory contractors and more than 100 IBEW Local 134 electricians were already transforming McCormick Place West. In The Power of Better Episode 18, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how their expertise, coordination, and craftsmanship powered one of the industry’s largest events. The episode shows how Chicago’s highly trained workforce energized 100,000 square feet of exhibit space—installing lighting, truss motors, and sound systems that brought nearly 400 exhibitor displays to life.

You’ll also hear insights from leaders across the industry as they reflect on how events like NECA strengthen partnerships, highlight innovation, and showcase the future of the trade.

Watch the full episode.

Powering Chicago Honors Vietnam Veterans Through Honor Flight Chicago

Powering Chicago proudly served as the full-flight sponsor for Honor Flight Chicago, supporting a one-day, all-expenses-paid trip for World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War veterans to visit the memorials in Washington, D.C.

Over 100 veterans participated in this unforgettable experience, joined by Powering Chicago member contractors who volunteered as guardians. The flight represented an act of gratitude honoring the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who built the foundation of our nation.

By supporting Honor Flight Chicago, Powering Chicago reinforces its commitment to community, ensuring that the stories and sacrifices of our veterans are remembered and celebrated.

Learn more about Powering Chicago’s community impact here.

The Powering Chicago Difference: Meade Electric’s Legacy of Craftsmanship and Impact

For more than a century, Meade Electric has played a key role in shaping Chicago’s infrastructure through technical excellence, safety, and union craftsmanship. As a Powering Chicago signatory contractor, Meade delivers complex projects across mission-critical, transit, infrastructure, utility, industrial, and commercial divisions.

From powering Chicago’s transit modernization and airport improvements to advancing clean energy with new EV charging stations, Meade Electric’s work reflects a legacy of quality built to last. Their investment in training, innovation, and precision continues to raise the standard for electrical construction across the region.

Learn more about Meade Electric and Powering Chicago’s network of qualified contractors here.

Safety and Compliance Must Guide Chicago’s Shift to Renewable Energy

With renewable energy playing a larger role in Chicago’s infrastructure, maintaining the highest levels of electrical safety has never been more important. In a recent contributed article for RE Journals, Executive Director Elbert Walters III explains why safety and compliance must guide Chicagoland’s shift to clean energy. He highlights how qualified electrical contractors, adherence to NFPA standards, and proactive maintenance programs protect workers, communities, and long-term system performance—ensuring that new renewable installations are built to operate safely and reliably for years to come.

Read the full article here.

Find an Electrical Contractor for Your Next Project

The success and safety of your next project start with the right electrical team. Powering Chicago’s Find a Contractor Tool connects you with licensed, qualified professionals who meet the industry’s highest standards for safety, training, and craftsmanship.

Search by specialty, location, or certification to find the best contractor for your project needs, from lighting upgrades to EV charging installations and large-scale facility work. Start your search here.