“We are proud to announce the research arm of IEC, the Workforce Development Institute.  Through the work of this group, we will amplify the voice and influence of the merit shop electrical contracting industry, and develop meaningful momentum through solutions to advance the profession and pipeline of future electricians.” 

IEC Executive Director, Thayer Long

Goals of the WFDI include:

• Provide research and develop information regarding the state and future of the independent electrical industry in the United States;​
• Educate the public about the electrical contracting industry and the importance of electrical workers to a robust U.S. economy; ​
• Support organizations that understand and value the interests of those engaged in the electrical construction industry; and​
• Engage in other educational activity as determined by the Board of Directors.​

The Voice of The Electrical Industry

The WFDI research initiative represents the voice of over 3,600 IEC member businesses representing over 80,000 electrical and systems workers through the United States in addition to over 14,000 electrical apprentices throughout 50+ electrical apprentice campuses and a pipeline of over 5,000 prospective apprentices through the myelectriccareer.com initiative.

Barriers to Entry in the Electrical Trade

The inaugural study of the WFDI, Barriers to Entry in the Electrical Trade, seeks to understand the obstacles prospective electrical apprentices face to take the next steps in pursuing their education. Insights from the study will drive solutions to develop the future electrical workforce apprenticeship pipeline and tee up IEC initiatives impacting public sentiment and understanding of the breadth of options available with an electrical worker career path.

The first phase of the Barriers to Entry in the Electrical Trade study involved input from IEC leadership, Chapter Executive Directors, Contractor Members, and Chapter Apprenticeship Program Training Directors to shape the study.

The second phase of the study included a survey to collect insights directly from all IEC members and apprentices. The full report of findings will be launched at SPARK- including study highlights, solutions and next steps. 

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