• Posted: March 12, 2019
• better careers

 

Over fifty young professionals, currently working for NECA contractors in Chicagoland, attended the first ever conference designed specifically towards people under forty years of age, working in the Electrical construction industry. The conference aimed to help young professionals improve their leadership skills while giving them a venue to build relationships with peers in the industry.  The attendees represented a wide range of experience in the industry, from entry-level assistants to division managers and top executives.  The conference was held in a day and a half format, so that participants could meet others in a social environment at the kick off meetings and reception on the first evening, and then attend a full day of education sessions the following day.

The theme developed by the planning committee, led by Chairman Thomas Pedergnana (Malko Communication Services, LLC) and committee members: Scott Bock (Block Electric Company, Inc.), Luke Fenner (Maron Electric Company), Jeff Weir (Kelso-Burnett Co.), William Cullen III (Sharlen Electric Company), and Mallory Gurtz (Gurtz Electric Company), was “Achieve a Winning Lifestyle through Leadership”.   The featured speaker, Alex Willis of Leadership Surge, provided motivation and inspiration to attendees to not only be an exceptional professional, but be the best you can be at home with family, in life, as well as in the workplace. Mr. Willis and the entire group of speakers really embodied the conference theme of “Achieving a winning lifestyle through Leadership.”

The conference agenda was rounded out with speakers on communication skills, health and wellness, and understanding generational differences that one may encounter at work.  Chairman Pedergnana commented that he “was inspired by the entire event, the people in attendance, as well as the speakers”.  The young professionals that participated were engaged and actively involved in the education sessions and conference activities.  They all wanted to advance their management skills, so that they can be exceptional leaders in the construction industry.  Conference attendee, Tim Dillon of Gibson Electric & Technology Solutions shared that “not only was I able to learn a lot from the speakers, but also my peers.  I enjoyed meeting and talking with others in the industry”.  The ability to meet with peers was also appreciated by Chris Funk of Lyons Pinner Electric.  He commented “Great Speakers that really instilled the point of investing in one’s self.  This was a fun event, that was nice to not only socialize with peers but also grow as a leader”.

The Young Professionals of ECA Chicago has gained a lot of momentum since its inception one year ago.  In 2019, the group is planning to host quarterly events to keep members engaged and continue the relationship building that started at the conference.  To attend these events, individuals must be working for a NECA Contractor in the Chicago and Cook County region.  For more information on upcoming events and activities, please contact Carrie Spaeth at ECA Chicago: cspaeth@ecachicago.com