Ever since its founding in 1901, the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) has been helping electrical contractors to be more efficient, more profitable, and more aware of issues impacting their industry.
There is no "typical" NECA contractor. Members include very large businesses and very small businesses. Some specialize in commercial work, others in residential. A signficant number of members do only low voltage work.
If you would like detailed information about NECA membership and the process of joining, please contact the Chapter Office at (952) 591-1800.
Some NECA benefits include:
Labor Relations Assistance
Industry Voice and Participation
Management Education
Government Representation
Networking and Recognition
National Support
Labor Relations:
The Minneapolis Chapter of NECA negotiates several labor agreements on behalf of all contractors who are signatory to them. These include the Inside Construction and Maintenance Agreement with Local 292, the Inside Construction and Maintenance Agreement with Local 343, and the Minnesota Statewide Limited Energy Agreement. NECA members have the opportunity to sit on the negotiating committees, and all NECA contractors vote on whether or not to ratify a negotiated contract.
Additionally, the NECA staff is always available to help a contractor with any questions that might arise about the collective bargaining agreement. In the case of a union grievance, NECA staff will assist a contractor in making every attempt to settle it to the satisfaction of both parties. Should a settlement not be reached, NECA staff will help present the case at a labor management meeting.
NECA Members have a voice in the Industry:
Representatives from companies that are members of NECA have the opportunity to sit on a number of committees such as Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees (JATCs), Labor Management, Residential Committees, Market Recovery, Governmental Affairs, etc.
Members are always invited to monthly meetings at which they have the opportunity to publicly ask questions and state opinions regarding challenges, issues, and ideas affecting the industry. Many members find these meetings invaluable not only for the information that they provide, but for the networking opportunities they afford.
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Education:
Minneapolis NECA joins forces with the St. Paul Chapter of NECA to jointly offer their members a wide variety of educational opportunities each year. 2007-2008 class offerings will be available soon.
Government Representation:
Minneapolis NECA employes a Government Affairs Director to monitor activity that would affect its contractors at the local, state, and national levels. Monthly governmental affairs bulletins are included in the Minneapolis NECA newsletter, and chapter representatives meet with legislators in Washington DC each year to share input on industry matters. Additionally, both Minneapolis NECA and National NECA financially support political candidates who are sympathetic to contractor industry causes.
Networking:
Many NECA members believe that one of the most beneficial aspects of membership is getting to know other contractors in the electrical or low voltage businesses. Monthly NECA meetings provide the unique opportunity for competitors to become allies as they exchange ideas, information, and contact information.
Additionally, 120 NECA chapters exist across the United States. NECA members who contract work in other jurisdictions can network with other NECA contractors or chapters to learn information on the work conditions in that area or to find a quality subcontractor.
National Support:
Minneapolis NECA’s affiliation with the National NECA offices provides a number of other member benefits. These include publications, educational programs, conventions and trade shows, and a number of others.