• Posted: July 9, 2025
• better careers, better communities, better construction, Construction Technology, Electric Vehicle, Electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, IBEW Local 134, IBEW-NECA Technical Institute, Renewable Energy

 

Powering Chicago welcomed the 2025 Green Drives Conference and Expo, hosted by the Illinois Alliance for Clean Transportation (IACT), to the IBEW-NECA Technical Institute (IN-Tech) in Alsip on May 8. The event brought together municipal leaders, clean energy advocates, fleet professionals, and exhibitors from across the Midwest to explore clean transportation solutions, from electric and hydrogen to propane, natural gas, and biofuels.

Powering Chicago provided a firsthand look at where the future of clean energy and transportation is headed, and who’s building it. Our signatory contractors and the IBEW Local 134 electricians they employ are already delivering the EV charging, smart grid, and renewable energy systems that clean fleets depend on.

“Your mission of advancing clean, sustainable transportation across Illinois resonates deeply with the work we do here,” said Gene Kent, Director at IN-Tech. “Whether it’s EV infrastructure, renewable energy systems, or smart grid installations, our students are trained to build and support the energy solution.”

The event highlighted the shared mission across sectors: reduce emissions, improve air quality, and support the long-term health of Illinois communities.

“We are all here for many common reasons—to reduce vehicle emissions, clean the air, and protect the environment that we are stewards of for generations to come,” said Chris Lyon, Director of Fleet Relations, NTEA.

Hands-on test drives, technology demos, and panel discussions throughout the day offered attendees the chance to engage directly with emerging transportation solutions. And as always, Powering Chicago was proud to showcase the training, capabilities, and readiness of the local workforce behind these systems.

We thank the Illinois Alliance for Clean Transportation (IACT) and all participating exhibitors for a successful event focused on what’s next and how we power it.Learn how Powering Chicago’s member contractors and the IBEW Local 134 electricians they employ are building the systems that move Illinois forward by exploring our website.