The holiday season is upon us, and homes across Chicago are beginning to sparkle with festive lights. As you hang your outdoor decorations, it’s essential to prioritize electrical safety. Data shows that electrical issues, including problems with distribution and lighting equipment, contribute to 45% of Christmas tree fires in homes. To help you safely deck […]
The Illinois IBEW Renewable Energy Fund (REF) continues to advance the safe, productive, and sustainable growth of renewable energy systems across Illinois. Through strategic community partnerships, stakeholder engagement, and educational programming, the REF plays a key role in preparing the next generation of electricians and renewable energy workers. At the heart of this effort is […]
Eric Payne founded 93Energy with a vision that extended beyond building a business. His focus was on creating meaningful work that makes an impact. What began as a solar construction business has grown into a mission-driven enterprise shaping the next generation of clean energy infrastructure across Chicago and beyond. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know that […]
“Thank you” may be two small words, but for many of America’s senior veterans, they carry decades of meaning. This year, Powering Chicago proudly served as the full-flight sponsor for Honor Flight Chicago, a nonprofit organization that honors World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War veterans with a one-day, all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. […]
In 2023, NFPA 70B transitioned from a recommended practice to a mandatory standard, redefining how facilities must manage electrical maintenance. This change impacts every organization responsible for keeping electrical systems safe, efficient, and compliant. To help facility leaders prepare, Crain’s Chicago Business and Powering Chicago have released a new white paper that explains exactly what […]
As Chicagoland students returned for the 2025 school year, Powering Chicago—the voice of the unionized electrical industry in Chicago and Cook County— welcomed the next generation of electricians to its Registered Apprenticeship Program at the IBEW-NECA Technical Institute (IN-Tech) in Alsip, Illinois. While many students choose the traditional college route and graduate with significant student […]
Family, resilience, and hard work are central to both Hispanic Heritage Month and Chicago’s electrical construction industry. Those same values have guided Torres Electrical Contractors as it has grown from one man’s vision into a growing company serving some of the city’s most demanding projects. From Solo Venture to Family Business Nick Torres Sr. founded […]
From a one-person operation to a 10-member team making a lasting impact on Chicago’s schools and communities, Sustainable Electric is the kind of success story we’re proud to share this Black Business Month. Led by founder and owner Keon Jones, the company’s growth reflects the dedication, skill, and perseverance that Black Business Month was created […]
Welcome to the July edition of The Power of Better, Powering Chicago’s monthly LinkedIn newsletter! This month, we’re spotlighting the latest efforts driving better construction, better careers, and better communities across Chicago and Cook County. In this edition, you’ll find our newest The Power of Better episode, a featured article in BUILDINGS Magazine, highlights from […]
More than 150 participants from across the electrical construction industry gathered in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, for a one-of-a-kind charity event: the annual Cowboy Shootout. From axe throwing and archery to roping contests, the event combines fun with purpose: raising awareness and funds for first responder mental health through The Well Resource Center. Powering Chicago, representing […]
