• Posted: October 18, 2023
• 2023, better careers, better communities, better construction, Chicago Area Electrical Contractors, Chicago Electrical Contractors, Community Building, Construction Technology, Electrical Construction Chicago, Hy-Power Electric, IBEW-NECA Technical Institute, Maine West High School, National Electrical Contractors’ Association’s (NECA), NECA Project Excellence Award

Hy-Power Electric, a  valued member of Powering Chicago, has achieved the prestigious NECA Project Excellence Award 2023, presented by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). This outstanding accomplishment underlines Hy-Power Electric’s unwavering dedication to excellence within the field of electrical contracting, firmly establishing their significant contributions to the industry.

The NECA Project Excellence Awards program provides a notable platform to honor electrical contractors who have consistently showcased exceptional performance and innovation in their projects throughout the previous year. This year they received an extraordinary number of project submissions, with over 100 impressive entries originating from across the United States. Among the distinguished winners, Hy-Power Electric stands out as an industry leader, exemplifying professionalism and ingenuity.

Hy-Power Electric’s remarkable project at Maine West High School embarked on a transformative journey, evolving the school’s infrastructure into a state-of-the-art, student-centric learning environment. Beginning with the cafeteria, significant changes were initiated, including the removal of windows and extensive work on concrete structures. Simultaneously, the revitalization of “The Pit,” a previously dimly lit space housing old weights, equipment and PE classes, resulted in the reclamation of valuable square footage, now transformed into a vibrant common area. Additionally, the project realized long-awaited plans for a Field House, which emerged as a central feature of the entire transformation, marked by an enthusiastic inauguration.

Integral to the project was a focus on security enhancements, with the implementation of a robust locking system to ensure the safety of both students and staff. The redesign of instructional spaces, such as classrooms, aimed to create a more collaborative learning environment, departing from the traditional static arrangement of desks in rows to offer a dynamic and flexible setup that encourages interaction and teamwork among students. The emphasis on creating collaborative spaces within the school underlines the project’s commitment to fostering interactive and engaging learning experiences for students.

Ultimately, the overarching goal was to design a school that not only met current needs but also prepared students for the demands of the future, aligning with the evolving landscape of education beyond the walls of Maine West High School. This project transcends mere technical expertise; it vividly reflects Hy-Power Electric’s commitment to crafting innovative and secure educational spaces that extend well beyond physical alterations. It profoundly enriches the overall educational experience for students, transcending the boundaries of mere physical changes.

The recognition bestowed upon Hy-Power Electric through the NECA Project Excellence Award 2023 further accentuates their excellence within the electrical contracting industry, underscoring their pivotal role in nurturing positive learning environments within the vibrant Powering Chicago community. Powering Chicago would like to congratulate Hy-Power Electric on this prestigious award.