Holy Mackerel! It seems like only a few months ago that we attended the IAEI Section meetings. Where does the time go?
As we prepare for the 2016 Section Meetings, the sections and chapters hosting the meetings have been very busy planning the education programs, networking activities, trade shows, and lining up the most knowledgeable speakers and subject matter experts in the electrical industry.
IAEI Section Meetings are the premier events of the year. They provide an opportunity for members to learn the most recent code changes, to see new and innovative products, and to interact with the most knowledgeable individuals, including those that are directly involved in the code-making process, in area forums. You will not find another conference that can offer this high-level quality education, taught by subject matter experts.
Electrical safety is everyone’s responsibility; however, those responsible for inspecting and installing electrical equipment have a greater responsibility to ensure each installation is according to the manufacturers’ requirements and that it complies with the electrical codes.
It is for this purpose that IAEI Section Meetings bring the electrical industry together— manufacturers, certification agencies, standard development bodies, contractors, electricians, and inspectors—each year. We want you to be better inspectors, better installers, better users.
We sometimes underestimate these values of networking face-to-face.
Educational opportunities.
No matter how experienced you are in your position, codes and standards change and new technologies enter the market. This year’s education program at the US-based Section Meetings will be focusing on the key changes in the 2017 National Electrical Code. The Canadian Section Meeting will be focusing on renewable energy systems, patient care areas, and Z462 Workplace Electrical Safety.
Vendors and suppliers.
Knowing about products and services and whom to contact if questions arise is imperative to stay competitive. The trade show at the Section Meetings provides an opportunity to meet and talk to some of the best and most informed people in the industry. It gives an opportunity to learn about existing and new product lines, and access to National Recognized Testing Laboratories personnel who can answer questions on product certification, listing, and approvals.
Networking with peers.
IAEI Section Meetings provide an excellent opportunity to network—the ability to share common experiences and best practices, accessibility to industry experts and inspectors both in formal and informal settings. IAEI Meetings are a great way to meet new friends and start friendships that can last a lifetime.
Become an expert.
Your customers and clients like knowing that you are an expert in your field and that you are keeping up-to-date with current technology. Being a member and being engaged with a professional organization adds creditably to your profession.
Being active in IAEI can bring many benefits. Just joining IAEI may seem to be enough, but it isn’t. You need to capitalize on your membership and become engaged and participate in IAEI meetings.
The 2016 IAEI Section Meetings are scheduled to start August 21 and run through to mid-October this year. For your convenience, these meetings are being held in different geographical areas throughout the United States and Canada. You’ll find the schedule in IAEI magazine.
To learn more about IAEI Section Meetings and to register, go to www.iaei.org
I look forward seeing you at one of the meetings.
