• Posted: April 19, 2022
• 2021 Chicago Auto Show, ev charger ebook, ev charger installationn, Taylor Electric

The end of 2021 saw Illinoisans recognizing the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and the increasing need for skilled, union electricians and contractors to tackle the infrastructure needed to handle charging these vehicles. Powering Chicago member contractors and electricians are answering that call for an increase of EV chargers and the industry planted its flag as the go-to resource for EV installation during this year’s Chicago Auto Show.

Returning to the inside tradeshow floor of McCormick Place following an abbreviated, outdoor event in the summer of 2021, the Chicago Auto Show saw crowds return to normal as consumers and car enthusiasts flocked to the tradeshow to see the latest in automotive innovation. In addition to new vehicles and new trends, Auto Show attendees were greeted by a Powering Chicago semi-truck touting the industry’s EV charging capabilities.

The truck, now known as the industry’s ‘mobile field trip truck,’ sits 73’ long and made its debut at this year’s Show. Built to educate consumers about the capabilities of union electricians and signatory contractors who install Chicagoland’s EV infrastructure, the semi-truck proved to be a showstopper for attendees. Parked next to the show’s first-ever indoor EV track, the truck was a critical tool for industry representatives to promote EV charging capabilities and an all-new EV eBook, The Time is Now: Considerations for EV Charging Infrastructure.

The first quarter of the year also provided an opportunity to highlight examples of female success stories within the electrical industry. Each March during Women’s History Month, opportunities arise to highlight women within the electrical industry who have carved their own paths and written their own success stories. This year, Powering Chicago was pleased to highlight Carrie Liberio, Chief Operating Office of High Voltage Electric who has inspired women to follow their own dreams.

In addition to Liberio and countless other successful women within the electrical industry, two others stand out for leading their family’s company into its 100^th year. Powering Chicago recently sat down with Kendra Dinkins and Karen Michele Dinkins, the great-granddaughters of founder Sam Taylor, who are the second generation of women to lead Taylor Electric. The pair spoke about the challenges the company has faced and how they’re proud to continue a legacy 100 years in the making.

While not quite reaching 100 years just yet, founded in 2007, the Chicago Red Stars are the oldest and winningest women’s professional soccer club in the United States, and in March, Powering Chicago formally announced its upcoming partnership with the club for the 2022 season. As an official partner, visitors to SeatGeek Stadium will see Powering Chicago signage along the field, on the video board, and on the LED ticker. Additionally, Powering Chicago will partner with the Red Stars for an upcoming community engagement promotion. Promotion details will be provided at a later date.

“We’re excited to be an official partner of the Chicago Red Stars. Their dedication to excellence, on and off the field, combined with their devoted fan base, make them a perfect partner to promote Powering Chicago’s mission of building better construction, better careers and better communities in Chicago and Cook County,” said Elbert Walters III, executive director of Powering Chicago.

Chicagoland sports fans can also catch Powering Chicago at the United Center during Blackhawks games and on Marquee Sports Network and NBC Sports Network during this season’s Cubs and White Sox games.