The District of Columbia Office of Apprenticeship Information and Training Approves IEC Chesapeake’s Telecommunications Technician Apprenticeship Standards

Odenton- IEC Chesapeake (IECC) is proud to announce that its Telecommunications Technician Apprenticeship Standards were approved on Thursday, September 29th by the District of Columbia Office of Apprenticeship Information and Training during the Apprenticeship Council’s monthly meeting.

IECC will now be able to offer telecommunications technician apprenticeship training to employer’s and residents in the low voltage industry. IECC also offers an electrical apprenticeship program that is recognized by the District of Columbia in partnership with the Community College of the District of Columbia. This program is offered at the PR Harris Educational Center in South East.

IECC’s Telecommunications Technician Apprenticeship program is an excellent resource for area contractors to consider since it is geared to prepare apprentices in better understanding the trade and code as they strive for a successful career in the low voltage industry.  

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at (301) 621-9545 Ext. 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Independent Electrical Contractors Chesapeake awarded Educational Energy Grant from the Dominion Virginia Power for its Renewable Energy Awareness Project

Based on last year’s success, Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Chesapeake believes that the Dominion Exceptional Energy Grant for the 2011/2012 school year will carry over its workforce development initiatives from the 2010/2011 school year. We are very excited to be working with Dominion Virginia Power again this year.

 With this in mind, IEC Chesapeake plans to continue its Renewable Energy Awareness Project, this time around, be focused on high and career and technical education students in Maryland Counties to include Charles, Prince George’s and St. Mary’s. IEC Chesapeake will also conduct several educational presentations at Edison Academy in Virginia as well.

 In addition to educating students about the emerging trend of renewable energy/technology and its impact impacts not only the betterment of our environment, but also the career opportunities that the renewable energy market presents in both construction trades and other applicable fields.

 IEC Chesapeake will incorporate visual reference and demonstration of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCSs) to provide students insight about this emerging technology.

 This project will be conducted via classroom presentations which will be animated and illustrative to keep students engaged and encourage participation. The goal is to generate a heightened interest and peak the curiosity of students that have the potential to be our future leaders of the industry. IEC Chesapeake greatly appreciates the workforce development support of Dominion Virginia Power.

 

IEC Chesapeake’s Class of 2011 Graduation Event

Odenton, MD (May 23, 2011) – IEC Chesapeake celebrated the accomplishments of approximately 80 electrical apprenticeship graduates, top apprentices, instructors of the year, and much more.  This year’s graduation ceremony was hosted at the Marriott Inn & Conference Center (University of Maryland University College – UMUC) in Adelphi, Md. on Saturday, May 21st with more than 200 family, friends, distinguished guests, company representatives, sponsors, and staff to honor IEC Chesapeake’s Class of 2011.  “We look forward to this event every year, because it is a proud moment for everyone involved,” exclaimed John Ennis, Jr., IEC Chesapeake Apprenticeship Committee Chair and CEO of Ennis Electric Co., Inc. based in Manassas, VA.

Jean Maisel of JDL Electric based in Baltimore, MD and IEC Chesapeake Chapter President welcomed all the graduates and guests attending this highly anticipated Graduation event.  After Maisel’s opening remarks, she unveiled IEC Chesapeake’s new logo that will supplement the traditional IEC National-based logo in an effort to enhance brand recognition throughout the Mid-Atlantic region that it serves.  Bob Mackey of Mackey Electrical Services then took the stage as the Master of Ceremonies for this memorable occasion, introducing Mike Holt, Founder/CEO of Mike Holt Enterprises based in Leesburg, Fl., as the guest speaker of the event.

Mr. Holt provided an inspirational speech to the graduating class about this major milestone in their educational and professional careers.  Mr. Holt had this to say about IEC Chesapeake and the students of the four-year electrical program:

“Everyday schools across the United States do a great job preparing the next generation of Electrical professionals to keep the industry and the public safe.  IEC Chesapeake is one of those schools that care deeply about preparing their students from beginning to end and it has been an honor for us to be involved in partnering in this process.  I am proud to say that this is one of the most dynamic and exciting industries that young persons can find themselves graduating into, and this graduation is just the beginning of a lifetime of learning and growing.  I wish IEC Chesapeake's students much success and ask them to continue to participate in the process of educating others and being the next generation to help improve the code and the industry.”  

Mr. Holt’s keynote address was emotional, heartfelt, and sincere, capturing the audience’s attention throughout his address.  He provided a glimpse of his life story as an entry-level helper in the electrical trade working hard to be the successful business owner that he is today.  This exemplifies that perseverance has its rewards but doesn’t come easy.  “Balance your life” “cherish your family,” and “always be professional” were key terms that Mr. Holt emphasized throughout his speech, considering that these are essential aspects that we must take into account on our road to success.  Mr. Holt then engaged members of the audience to join him in sharing their sentiments with the graduates.
Then, Jim Deal, Director of Education for IEC Chesapeake, recognized all the instructors in attendance for their commitment to training with the following teachers receiving the Instructor of the Year Award for the MD and VA locations respectively:

• MD – Kenn Fuqua (Year-3 Odenton)
• VA – Mike Shanahan (Year-2/-3 Chantilly)

Afterward, the James “Ron Brown” Award was given to the Top 3 Year-4 graduating apprentices.  James “Ron” Brown, former owner of Electrical General Corporation (EGC), has dedicated this award to the top apprentices of the 2011 graduating class.  EGC has been a leader in supporting Apprenticeship Training and the Open Shop philosophy with IEC Chesapeake.  The 2010-2011 award winners were:

• 1st Place –  Charles Thomas
• 2nd Place –  Andrew Cusick
• 3rd Place –  Michael Newcomb

At the conclusion of the Graduation ceremony, IEC Chesapeake presented an exclusive award to Mike Holt for supporting IEC Chesapeake’s Apprenticeship and Training program initiatives throughout the year and in appreciation of his guest appearance for this special event. 
                        
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2011

Chesapeake and the National Guard venture into “Guard Apprenticeship” pilot program for Service members to enhance their skill-sets in the electrical field

IEC Chesapeake member and Year-1 apprentice referenced in the Washington Post regarding job-training programs for displaced workers

ODENTON, Maryland – May 31, 2011 – As IEC Chesapeake continues its proactive efforts in workforce development, it has noted that federally funded local job-training programs such as D.C. Building Futures, a collaboration amongst other local training programs to include DC-based Wider Opportunities for Women (WOW), also helps to assist in the placement of qualified individuals seeking employment and training opportunities in the construction industry.  With this in mind, IEC Chesapeake chapter member IES Commercial was acknowledged for its support through the employment of Michelle Jones, Year-1 apprentice in IEC Chesapeake’s DC electrical program at The Community College of the District of Columbia (CCDC), as well as four additional women from the D.C. Building Futures program.  For complete details on the article Commentary:  Cutting job-training dollars would hurt recovery, please visit the following weblink of the Washington Post’s May 29th online edition under Capital Business:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/capitalbusiness/commentary-cutting-job-training-dollars-would-hurt-recovery/2011/05/25/AGY4XGEH_story.html

IEC Chesapeake and Continuum Energy Solutions Receives “Edison Academy Partners of the Year Award”

ODENTON, Maryland – May 26, 2011 – The Edison Academy of Alexandria, VA hosted its 12th Annual Awards Program for business and community partners, as well as outstanding Academy students on Wednesday, May 25, 2011.  IEC Chesapeake and chapter member, Continuum Energy Solutions of Alexandria, VA, received the Edison Academy Partners of the Year Award for their workforce development outreach initiatives to the students of Edison Academy.  Specifically, IEC Chesapeake addressed electrical students of the Academy to discuss post secondary electrical apprenticeship training, different career opportunities within the industry, and coordinating field trips to the IEC Chesapeake Chantilly facility for classroom interactive and hands-on lab exercises.  Several presentations/demonstrations on Solar/Wind energies were also provided through the Renewable Energy Awareness Project in conjunction with Continuum Energy Solutions with approximately 450 Academy students, faculty, and guests in attendance.

IEC Chesapeake and contractor member referenced in The Baltimore Sun for their perspectives on apprenticeship
 
Odenton, MD (May 25, 2011) – Jean Maisel of JDL Electric and Chapter President of IEC Chesapeake, along with Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake, were both quoted for their insight about apprenticeship training programs as a practical outlet to foster a skilled workforce.  With apprentices getting trained in the classroom while also gaining valuable experience in the field, the traditional “apprenticeship” model may open new avenues in other professions for training and development, especially in emerging markets.  To read more about what Maisel and Shmelzer had to say in the May 22nd article, “Maryland looks to reintroduce apprenticeship – old training method could be just the thing for new fields, officials say,” by Jamie Smith Hopkins of The Baltimore Sun, please visit the following weblink:
 
http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/bs-bz-maryland-apprenticeship-20110522,0,2832000.story
 
Odenton, MD (May 11, 2011) – Today, IEC Chesapeake proudly announces its collaborative effort with the Army National Guard to implement the Guard Apprenticeship Program Initiative (GAPI), a pilot program, which will provide career and training opportunities in the electrical field for Servicemembers enrolled in the Maryland Army National Guard.

GAPI, with IEC Chesapeake for the MD/DC-region, will serve as the template for future National Guard apprenticeship programs nationwide.  This program will provide Servicemembers from the Maryland Army National Guard with the ability to expand both their skill-sets and learning opportunities through apprenticeship training in preparing them to become licensed Journeyman.  “We are excited and honored about this pilot program with the Guard and believe this will open many opportunities for collaborative efforts in the future,” said IEC Chesapeake executive director, Grant Shmelzer.

Having said that, IEC Chesapeake’s four-year electrical apprenticeship program consists of 576 hours of classroom-based instruction, labs, and third-party vendor presentations, as well as 8,000 hours of on-the-job field experience gained through the apprentice’s sponsoring employer generally registered with the Department of Labor.

With this in mind, the Guard’s military operational skills (MOS) will be matched to the Guard’s electrical skills needed based on IEC Chesapeake’s electrical apprenticeship competencies for both classroom and field settings.  Servicemembers participating in the pilot program will be awarded credits for their prior classroom and field experiences as applicable.  "We are fortunate to have the honor of collaborating with IEC-Chesapeake in this exciting venture; we would like to sincerely thank Grant Shmelzer and his network of contractors for providing this opportunity to our Servicemembers,” stated GAPI’s Program Manager, Major Robert A. Lee, Army National Guard.  Furthermore, according to the April 2011 Civilian Employment Information on Guardsmen (CEI) data, the Army National Guard's unemployment rate of 13.3 percent exceeded the national [unemployment] estimate of nine (9) percent (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).  “It is our hope that programs such as GAPI will not only help to alleviate the increasing unemployment rate, but will also strive to improve the quality of life for our Servicemembers and their families,” said Lee.

IEC Chesapeake Maryland contractor members, Holt Electrical of Gaithersburg and JDL Electric of Baltimore, look to grow their own workforce through the Guard Apprenticeship Program.  Jim Holt of Holt Electrical Contractors, Inc. and chapter vice president of IEC Chesapeake asserts:

“Holt Electrical management believes hiring Servicemembers is both good for our company and good for the Servicemembers.  These honorable people have served the USA with discipline, dedication and work skills that most employers cannot find today.”

Jean Maisel of JDL Electric and chapter president of IEC Chesapeake had this to say when asked to comment on the IEC Chesapeake and National Guard program:

“The construction industry offers endless opportunities -- construction workers are charged with the task of preserving the past, maintaining the present and building the future.  A direct correlation between our military services and the electrical trade is preparedness training.  Whether a highly trained military veteran or a seasoned civilian electrical worker, both understand the dangers present in their line of work.  The IEC Chesapeake and National Guard Program align Servicemembers seeking employment with employers in the electrical trade seeking skilled employees.”

IEC Chesapeake member, Hawkins Electric, receives mention in Solar Today article for installing cost-saving lighting upgrades and control systems for local car repair facility

ODENTON, Md. (May 6, 2011) – IEC Chesapeake member, Hawkins Electric of Beltsville, Md., receives mention in the American Solar Energy Society’s (ASES) Solar Today digital edition for May 2011.  The article on “Daylighting a Car Repair Facility” summarizes the energy efficiency efforts of Columbia, Md.-based car repair facility, British American Auto Care (BAAC).  Therein, Hawkins is referenced for upgrading BAAC’s lighting system from metal halide, 455-watt fixtures to Orion 192-watt fixtures having six T8 fluorescent lamps.  Additionally, Hawkins also installed a Watt Stopper system for improved daylight and occupancy controls throughout the BAAC facility.  For complete article details, please visit the Solar Today weblink below – PP. 48-49:

http://www.solartoday-digital.org/solartoday/201105?pg=48&pm=2&fs=1#pg48

IEC Chesapeake and Quick Mount PV receive mention in tED Magazine online

ODENTON, Md. – May 5, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake received placement in tED Magazine online recently, which referenced Quick Mount PV’s material donation to IEC Chesapeake for solar training.  Please visit the following weblink under Channel News: 5.3.2011 for article details:

http://www.tedmag.com/Rooms.aspx?id=7825

As IEC Chesapeake continues to expand its class offerings in renewable energy, the support of manufacturers such as Quick Mount PV, as well as exposure in major publications such as tED Magazine, help to promote and create awareness nationwide about IEC Chesapeake’s training efforts in the Green industry.

IEC Chesapeake member, Standard Solar, to install 2,150 PV panels for American University

Odenton, MD (April 26, 2011) – IEC Chesapeake is proud to recognize Rockville-based chapter member, Standard Solar, for its involvement in a large solar project with American University (AU) involving the installation of over 2,000 PV panels.  “More than 2,150 photovoltaic panels will be installed at three campus buildings and three off-campus buildings by July to provide electricity and reduce carbon emissions by 557 tons per year. The new panels will increase the university's solar capacity from 27 kW to more than 532 kW, producing about 637 megawatt hours per year,” reports Joshua Bolkan in an online article found in the April 18th edition of Campus Technology.  The groundbreaking ceremony of AU’s solar array project occurred on April 22nd – a perfectly appropriate event to celebrate Earth Day.  Visit the following weblink for complete details on Bolkan’s article:

http://campustechnology.com/articles/2011/04/18/american-university-adds-2300-solar-panels.aspx

With this in mind, IEC Chesapeake is excited to see members of its chapter, such as Standard Solar, spotlighted and referenced in many well-known publications for their contribution to the industry in earth-conscious projects.  It is evident that renewable energy is making a stronger impact in the construction industry, and IEC Chesapeake continues to evaluate market trends with the guidance of its Renewable Energy Committee to provide training, which will better equip contractors to be more competitive in this emerging niche market.   For more information about renewable energy training currently available, i.e., NABCEP PV Entry Level Prep, NABCEP PV Installer Prep, Advance PV Design & Installation, Solar Thermal, and Solar Labs, please visit the Continuing Education section of IEC Chesapeake’s website at www.iec-chesapeake.com.

IEC Chesapeake Receives Material Donation from Quick Mount PV for Classroom Training and Labs

Odenton, MD (April 25, 2011) – Today, IEC Chesapeake announces that it will be receiving an in-kind material donation of flashings (used for PV mounting) from California-based company, Quick Mount PV.  The all-aluminum construction of the full-sized flashings with stainless steel hardware is ideal for roof mounted solar energy systems, providing proper waterproofing for roof penetrations made during installation.  

“Donating mount flashings for classroom training and labs was a logical opportunity for Quick Mount PV to support IEC Chesapeake’s efforts to better educate existing and future installers about key components vital to the stability and reinforcement of roof mounted PV systems,” says Quick Mount PV sales manager, Kelli Ross.

Jeff Gilbert, president of Azimuth Solar and solar instructor for IEC Chesapeake adds, “With Quick Mount PV flashing being a recognized standard for 100% code-compliant, watertight roof mounts, the donated material will be an excellent way to demonstrate the functionality of and address the safety aspects related to roof mounted PV systems.”

“Furthermore, as IEC Chesapeake continues to expand its roster of renewable energy training throughout the mid-Atlantic region, the support of manufacturers such as Quick Mount PV, helps to strengthen its impression within the Green industry as a reputable resource for solar training,” conveys IEC Chesapeake business development representative, Mervin Munoz.

Ennis Electric Company Announces New President and Promotions Within Company

Manassas, VA (April 19, 2011) – John A. Ennis, Jr., Principal Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Ennis Electric Co., Inc. (Ennis), announced that effective March 21, 2011, Jonathan Mitz was named President of Ennis.  Jonathan Mitz succeeds William K. Swab, Jr. (Chip) who retired after more than 35 years with the company.

Mr. Ennis also announced that Kevin R. Cole has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Business Development.  In addition, Stephen B. Blankenship was named Vice President of Administrative Operations.  Ben Musgrove, an Ennis Vice President, succeeds Mr. Ennis as director of Field Operations.  
Ennis Electric is a second generation commercial electrical contractor.  It provides quality electrical expertise in renovation and new construction for government and private clients in Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia. Ennis Electric was founded by Mr. Ennis’ father, John A. Ennis Sr, in 1974.

John Ennis Jr. began his career at Ennis as an apprentice electrician and was named a Vice President in 1992.  For the past 5 years he has served as Chief Executive Officer.  In this role he has been actively involved in day-to-day operations.

Mr. Mitz has 30 years of construction experience for large general contractors.  His background includes many high profile construction projects in the Washington, D.C.  As President, Jonathan provides corporate leadership of company activities.

Mr. Cole joined Ennis in 1991 as an apprentice electrician, and advanced to project management and oversight of estimating and design-build functions. He was named Vice President in 2006.   As Executive Vice President, Mr. Cole will continue to oversee Pre-Construction Services.  In addition, he will assume leadership of Business Development.

Mr. Blankenship joined Ennis in 1998 as an apprentice electrician.  After a brief period during which he ran his family’s business, Mr. Blankenship advanced to Project Manager and then Project Executive.  As Vice President, Mr. Blankenship will oversee all aspects of Project Management.

Mr. Musgrove has over 30 years of experience in the electrical industry.  He joined Ennis in 1977 as an apprentice electrician, became a Project Manager in 1991, and was promoted to Vice President in 2006.  He is highly valued for his expertise in the electrical craft.  Mr. Musgrove will succeed Mr. Ennis as director of Field Operations.

IEC Chesapeake Member Recognized in the April 2011 Digital Edition of tED Magazine for Solar Initiatives

Odenton, Md. – April 7, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake is proud to read about its member, Atlantic Electric Supply Corp., spotlighted in the April 2011 Digital Edition of tED Magazine for its accomplishments in the solar market, as well as its grassroots efforts with IEC Chesapeake in developing and coordinating solar training and awareness programs to meet the needs of the construction industry.  

Atlantic Electric Supply based in Washington, D.C., leads the way as the first electrical distributor in the area to have a portion of its electricity provided by solar.  Derek Coen, partner of Atlantic Electric Supply, plays an instrumental role with IEC Chesapeake as chair of the Renewable Energy Committee, which was established three years ago.  As a NABCEP-certified PV Installer, Coen brings valuable insight to the table when helping to map out the Renewable Energy Committee’s next-steps in solar training. 

Please visit Page 109 of the following weblink to read tED’s full article on Atlantic Electric Supply titled Solar: The tie that binds:

http://tedmag.dirxion.com/WebProject.asp?CodeId=7.3.5.31&BookCode=ap211flx&SectionIndex=0&PageLabel=0&password=digited

IEC Chesapeake and The Community College of the District of Columbia Now Scheduling Classes and Events for the Summer and Fall for the DC region

Odenton, Md. – March 29, 2011:  The Independent Electrical Contractors – Chesapeake Chapter (IECC) and The University System of the District of Columbia (UDC) are proud to announce their first co-branded Continuing Education class, which will be offered this summer. 

IECC, in collaboration with Continuing Education at the Community College of the District of Columbia (CCDC), has scheduled a two-day 10-Hour NEC 2011 Code Change seminar on June 3rd and 4th, which will be held at the Backus Campus and is being sponsored by Atlantic Electric Supply, also based in DC.  This code class will fulfill licensing renewal requirements for electricians in various states and jurisdictions to include DE, MD (Cecil, Harford, PG, Queen Anne, and Wicomico counties), NC, NJ, VA, and VT.  Mervin Munoz, Business Development representative of IECC emphasized, “Electricians have the ability to fulfill multiple continuing education requirements with this one class, which saves them both time and money.”  Additionally, OSHA 10- and 30-hour online training will also be made available through CCDC’s collaborative efforts with IECC, which is another training alternative for contractors to consider.

Next, an Open House event for electrical contractors will be tentatively scheduled in July or August to discuss pre-apprenticeship, apprenticeship, and skill-upgrade training opportunities to meet the needs of contractors in DC and surrounding areas.  “This is an excellent opportunity to promote the training resources available through IECC and CCDC’s joint venture, as well as an appropriate forum for contractors to express what their immediate training needs are,” said Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IECC.    

Then, IECC and CCDC will be offering another Year-1 electrical program in September, as well as a follow-up Year-2 class for apprentices currently enrolled in the January Year-1 Accelerated Program or apprentices looking to transfer into the program.  The Open House over the summer should help build contractors’ interests to support and strengthen the IECC-CCDC apprenticeship program for the 2011/2012 school year.  Shmelzer referenced, “the CCDC location serves as another convenient training location for contractors to utilize to meet their apprenticeship training needs.” 

Finally, IECC and CCDC plan on scheduling an emerging technology Lunch & Learn seminar in the fall on Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS).  As more and more Electric Vehicles (EV) are being manufactured, there will be an inevitable need to integrate charging stations in both residential dwellings and commercial structures.  Neil Richardson, Director of Continuing Education at CCDC commented, “EVCS will open up a new market segment for business growth in both sales and installations.  This informational session will help contractors better understand the trends and potential business opportunities available to them in the EVCS market.”

IEC Chesapeake Member, Ennis Electric, Provides Testimony on Project Labor Agreements

Odenton, Md. – March 18, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake member, John Ennis, Jr. of Ennis Electric Co., Inc. based in Manassas, Va., was invited as a witness to testify at the “Regulatory Impediments to Job Creation: The Cost of Doing Business in the Construction Industry” hearing held at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, March 16, 2011. 

John Ennis, Jr. addressed the Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs about the issues Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) have on federal construction work and the unfair disadvantage that PLAs impose on merit-shop contractors. 

“PLAs are forms of discrimination against non-union contractors and simply unfair,” Ennis asserts.  He further mentions, “Capitol Hill was an appropriate forum to explain to our politicians how PLAs permit discriminatory practices, thereby barricading non-union contractors from equal opportunities to work on federal construction projects.”

IEC Chesapeake, a proponent of the merit-shop philosophy, supports Ennis’ stance on PLAs.  Federal construction projects, and all projects in general, should be awarded based on merit.  All contractors, whether non-union or union, should have an even playing field and the ability to bid and work on the same projects without the limitations or restrictions inflicted by way of PLAs.  “IEC Chesapeake is proud to have Ennis Electric as a chapter member and applauds Ennis’ grassroots effort to protect the rights of all merit-shop contractors,” said Grant Shmelzer, executive director of IEC Chesapeake.

IEC Chesapeake rolls out its Renewable Energy Awareness Project at Edison Academy with Continuum Energy Solutions

ODENTON, Md. – March 16, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake, in collaboration with Edison Academy of Alexandria, Va., successfully rolled out a series of renewable energy presentations through grant funding awarded to them by Dominion Virginia Power in October of 2010 for their Renewable Energy Awareness Project.  There were a total of five one-hour sessions offered on March 8th, 10th, and 15th with over 450 students, teachers, administrators, and staff in attendance, hosted at Edison Academy (Thomas A. Edison High School), where students come from 13 different high schools for career & technical education classes.

Students of Edison Academy were provided with valuable insight regarding renewable energy, specifically solar and wind energies.  This project provided a perfect opportunity to enlighten our future leaders about the emerging trends and technologies in the Green industry and how such developments promote a cleaner and healthier environment.  Mervin Munoz, Business Development representative for IEC Chesapeake, stated:

“This workforce development initiative was an excellent way to deliver the message about career opportunities in the emerging Green market both in construction and other cross-over professions, i.e., accounting, business management, consulting, research & development to name a few.”

The different classes participating in these presentations included Agriculture, Animal Science, Auto Collision, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Systems Technology, Electrical Construction, French, HVAC, Information Systems, JROTC, Math and Science, Network Administration, Oracle, and Web Design with electrical students from the Arlington Career Center also participating during the last session.  Brad Rickel, Administrator of Edison Academy, added, “the Renewable Energy Awareness Project addresses core elements of the Academy’s Mission Statement to include ‘exploring career options’ for our students.”

Team members Chad Laibly (Division Manager) and Stan Lassiter (General Manager) of Continuum Energy Solutions based in Alexandria, Va., facilitated dynamic presentations using the Megatech Solar & Wind Hybrid Classroom Trainer to demonstrate the concepts of solar and wind power discussed during the sessions. 

“Using the Megatech training system was an excellent resource to provide a visual illustration of the mechanics behind solar and wind generated power – it helped to keep the students engaged throughout the presentation,” said Lassiter. 

Laibly continues to say, “Continuum Energy Solutions is grateful for the privileged opportunity to address the students of Edison Academy, and the types of intuitive questions that they posed were quite impressive.”

IEC Chesapeake would like to recognize Edison Academy for its partnership in the Renewable Energy Awareness Project, Continuum Energy Solutions for their technical support, and Dominion Virginia Power for selecting us as one of the award recipients for our grassroots effort in Green awareness.

Independent Electrical Contractors – Chesapeake Chapter Teams with ZamRay.com for Online Construction Resources

Smart and Sustainable Service Provides Deep Benefits to the Construction Industry.

Odenton, Md. -  March 14, 2011 – Today, the Independent Electrical Contractors – Chesapeake Chapter (IECC) announced their partnership with ZamRay.com.  ZamRay is an online resource that allows contactors and distributors to do their job more efficiently and effectively.  At its core, ZamRay allows any contractor or distributor to place their surplus inventory into a construction-only, online, and proprietary classified advertising marketplace.  This effectively opens up the surplus materials to thousands of prospective buyers across the United States.  Buyers can search by material type, geography or price. The inherently green solution from ZamRay is ideal, because it keeps excess inventory out of the landfills and in proper use situations.

ZamRay launched in January 2011 and has quickly grown into the nation’s fastest growing construction resource with over 10,000 postings.  IECC’s 150+ regional members will now have the ability to access 100% of the ZamRay site as part of their member benefits.
The following are just some of the services ZamRay offers in addition to surplus materials:

- Buy/sell surplus construction materials and supplies (new and used)
- Buy/sell construction equipment and vehicles (new and used)
- Post/view jobs and resumes
- Nationwide service directory to promote your company
- Access to construction industry news, article, events, forums and information.

Anyone doing business in the construction industry and buy or sell on ZamRay.  Classified ads are just $24.99 / 90 days for anyone.  And, IECC members get an additional 15% off all ads as part of the partnership agreement.

“IEC Chesapeake is going to be a tremendous partner with ZamRay,” said Kurt Fisher, managing director of ZamRay. “The electrical contracting business is notorious for having very involved inventories.  ZamRay will allow them to more efficiently manage these items and offload unwanted inventories.  It’s not only a smart solution, it’s a sustainable solution where excess inventory doesn’t have to go into the landfill.”

“ZamRay’s online services is an excellent platform for businesses to buy and/or sell needed and overstocked inventory respectively,” said Mervin Munoz, business development representative of IECC.  “It is a good inventory management resource to consider when building up or clearing out inventory.”

Established in 1981, IEC Chesapeake is a trade association composed of more than 150 Contractor and Industry Partner members. The IECC is the premier trade association representing the Chesapeake region’s independent electrical, low voltage, and solar contractors. IECC aggressively works with the industry to establish a competitive environment for the merit shop - a philosophy that promotes the concept of free enterprise, open competition and economic opportunity for all.  To learn more go to www.iec-chesapeake.com.

About ZamRay:  ZamRay.com is the premier online resource for all sectors of the construction industry. The site includes useful categories such as: materials marketplace; used equipment listings; services directory; employment; news; and connections. More importantly, it is a community of construction professionals from the field to the office, coast to coast. To learn more, visit www.ZamRay.com.

IEC Chesapeake receives mention in the Electrical Distributor (tED) online for its Accelerated Electrical Apprenticeship Program with UDC’s Community College

DENTON, Md. – March 3, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake is excited to receive mention in the Distributor News section of the Electrical Distributor magazine online (tED Magazine) on March 1st, which references the collaborative efforts of IEC Chesapeake and the Community College of the District of Columbia (CCDC).  IEC Chesapeake and CCDC recently offered an accelerated Year One electrical apprenticeship class in January to meet the needs of contractors in the DC Metropolitan and surrounding areas.  At this point, IEC Chesapeake looks forward to continuing its training initiatives with CCDC in the Fall of 2011 with another Year One class.  Please visit the following weblink under Channel News: 3.1.2011 for article details: http://www.tedmag.com/Rooms.aspx?id=7179.

 

IEC Chesapeake Attends Small Business Day Event in Annapolis, Md.

ODENTON, Maryland — March 2, 2011 — IEC Chesapeake attended the Small Business Day Event on Tuesday, March 1st along with Maryland NFIB with the unique opportunity to meet face-to-face with lawmakers to discuss issues and current legislation affecting small businesses.  The event commenced at Harry Browne’s Restaurant in Annapolis, Md. for breakfast and networking followed by key speakers from the Maryland General Assembly, visiting and touring the historic Maryland State House in Annapolis, listening-in on the Maryland General Assembly Session, and face-to-face meetings with lawmakers.

IEC Chesapeake Member Successfully Passes NABCEP’s First Offering of the Photovoltaic Technical Sales Exam

Odenton, Md. – March 1, 2011 – In a recent press release from February 28, 2011, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) congratulated the accomplishments of the 97 individuals who recently passed its initial administration of the PV Technical Sales Exam.  NABCEP’s press release noted:

“The group of inaugural certificants has demonstrated extensive knowledge of the complex range of activities that make up a successful photovoltaic sales process.  The job task analysis (JTA) that the exam is based on covers eight main topic areas: qualifying the customer; site analysis; conceptual design; financial costs, incentives, and savings; financial benefit analysis and financing; non-financial benefit analysis; performance analysis; and proposal preparation.”  

With this in mind, IEC Chesapeake is proud to recognize member representative, Derek Coen of Atlantic Electric Supply (Washington, D.C.), for his successful accomplishment of being one of the 97 privileged candidates to pass the PV Technical Sales Exam.  Coen is also a NABCEP-certified PV Installer and serves as IEC Chesapeake’s Renewable Energy Committee Chair.   

Please visit the following weblink to read NABCEP’s full press release regarding its first PV Technical Sales Exam at:

http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=qtobkacab&v=0014Ey5FNw0bDIzA26Bokj9hajZmBuZXvxkWw2JtWEV7SMDJROZVvpu6HEu2Hagr3zxQmv1g_tseSD1BpqsNvcN7huGQFkDvuQqDIyqYq298BQTF7d1AiKIVX4dcpv51gUUotSBO8-wnADIa4_1b5yfZA%3D%3D

The University of Maryland College Park announces 631 KW solar project

Solar project is made possible by the Maryland Energy Administration Project Sunburst Initiative and partnership with Washington Gas Energy Services, Inc.

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — More than 2,600 solar panels will be installed on a University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) building this summer, resulting in one of the largest rooftop solar power systems in Maryland.

UMD was selected as a Maryland Energy Administration Project Sunburst Initiative Partner and awarded a grant aimed at promoting the installation of renewable energy systems on public buildings in Maryland. As a result of a competitive bid process, Washington Gas Energy Services, Inc. (WGES) will finance the remainder of the project cost and UMD will purchase the electricity generated by the solar panels under a 20-year agreement with WGES. 

By the second quarter of 2011, the solar power system will be installed and operating on the roof of UMD’s Severn building, a multi-purpose facility located less than a mile from the College Park campus.  The 631 kilowatt system, which will be installed by Standard Solar Inc. of Rockville, Md. and owned and operated by WGES, will produce about 792 megawatt hours of electricity each year. Read the full release here.

IEC Chesapeake & International Sign Association Collaborate to Offer Industry Training

ODENTON, Maryland – February 25, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake is proud to announce that it will be collaborating with its newest member, International Sign Association (ISA), to offer a variety of safety and industry-based training to address regulatory worksite requirements and help contractors stay safe and in compliance on the jobsite. 

One of the more recent requirements affecting contractors is the final rule on OSHA’s Cranes and Derricks regulation that was published on August 10, 2010 in the Federal Register.  Under this final rule, which takes effect 90-days after the final rule’s published date, it is stated that all crane operators must be certified within four years.  The following link contains more information about the final rule on Cranes and Derricks:

http://www.osha.gov/FedReg_osha_pdf/FED20100809.pdf

With this in mind, ISA offers a Mobile Crane Operator Safety Certification Program that is divided into three components to include a classroom training followed by written and practical hands-on examinations administered through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO).  Any contractors in need of this training and certification can take advantage of ISA’s upcoming three-day prep course hosted at IEC Chesapeake’s Odenton Training Facility in Maryland from March 17th – 19th.  Please contact Tracey at ISA for more registration information.

“ISA is excited about the new educational opportunities that the collaborative efforts between IEC Chesapeake and the International Sign Association will bring to the members of both associations,” says ISA’s Director of Education and Communications, Tracey Cook, CAE.   “Joint efforts such as these provide value-added benefits for all members. It is truly a win-win opportunity for both parties,” Tracey further comments.

With the March prep class being the first collaborative effort, IEC Chesapeake and ISA will look into other training initiatives in the areas of energy efficiency, low voltage, management education and safety.  Business Development representative for IEC Chesapeake, Mervin Munoz, highlights that “addressing the mutual training needs of our respective members make plain and simple sense.  It’s always great when opportunities present themselves to work with our members for our members.”  Be on the lookout for future IEC Chesapeake-ISA courses!

About International Sign Association
1001 N. Fairfax Street, Suite 301, Alexandria, VA  22314
Phone (703) 836-4012 / Fax (703) 836-8353 / Website: www.signs.org

The International Sign Association (ISA) is a 2,000-member trade association, the members of which are manufacturers, users and suppliers of on-premise signs and other visual communications products from the 50 United States and 54 countries around the world. ISA supports, promotes and improves the visual communications industry, which sustains the nation’s retail, distribution, service and manufacturing industries.

IEC Chesapeake Now Offering NICET Fire Alarm Prep Webinars and Self-paced Online Training through its Affiliate Program with the National Training Center

ODENTON, Maryland – February 8, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake continues to expand its online training efforts to provide contractors with more flexibility to meet their training needs, specifically with Fire Alarm systems.  Today, IEC Chesapeake announced its new Affiliate Program with Nevada-based company, National Training Center (NTC), and will be offering NICET Fire Alarm Levels 1 & 2 Prep Webinars monthly throughout 2011 beginning in March. The Affiliate Program with NTC also includes the offering of self-paced online training through NTC’s Training Department with unlimited access 24/7 on topics to include Fire Alarm Systems, Fire Alarm Levels 1 & 2, and Fire Alarm Levels 3 & 4, and much more.  These readily available training resources maybe the solution contractors are looking for to fulfill their training needs more effectively while also maintaining their day-to-day business operations.  Visit the Continuing Education section of IEC Chesapeake’s website at www.iec-chesapeake.com for more information or to register.

IEC Chesapeake Member, Holt Electrical, Spotlighted in the Washington Post Online for Home Generator Sales and Installations in Local Maryland Communities

ODENTON, Maryland – February 8, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake contractor member, Holt Electrical of Gaithersburg, Md., was referenced in a Washington Post online article on February 5, 2011 by staff writer Steve Hendrix, regarding the increasing demand of home generator installations in local communities prone to frequent power outages.  In the article, Jim Holt of Holt Electrical mentions that “his sales of home generators have been climbing steadily” and further emphasizes that “we’ve got people begging us to come out right now, offering to pay extra.”  With this in mind, basic economics come into play as companies such as Holt Electrical try to keep up with the increasing demand of home generator installs as power outages continue to be an ongoing nuisance to local residents.  Please visit the following weblink for complete article details: 

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/02/05/AR2011020504383.html

IEC Chesapeake Invited to the National Skills Coalition’s 2011 Summit

ODENTON, Md. – February 17, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake was selected to participate in this all-day “invitation-only” event held in Washington, D.C. on February 15th and 16th of 2011 in a national effort to gather professionals and subject matter experts from different sectors of the industry to discuss federal policies to develop the skills of America’s workforce.  In this forum, IEC Chesapeake shared its workforce development initiatives and insights, along with its challenges and successes, to give Members of Congress a better understanding of what the industry faces on a day-to-day basis and the support needed to effectively address America’s workforce needs both locally and nationally.  More about the National Skills Coalition can be found at www.nationalskillscoalition.org.

IEC Chesapeake Receives Placement in TedMag Online Regarding Unirac’s Material Donation

ODENTON, Maryland — February 16, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake is excited to see that its previously distributed press release received placement and exposure in the recent online edition of tED Magazine, which mentions Unirac’s material donation of PV racking equipment to be utilized by IEC Chesapeake for demonstration and training. Full article details can be found at http://www.tedmag.com/Rooms.aspx?id=6985 under Channel News: 2.15.2011.

IEC Chesapeake Now Offers NEC Online Training through its Affiliate Program with Mike Holt Enterprises

ODENTON, Maryland – February 15, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake continues its collaborative efforts with the industry leader in electrical training, Mike Holt Enterprises of Leesburg, Fl., specifically with NEC online training. 

IEC Chesapeake and Mike Holt Enterprises recognize that there are times when contractors have Journeyman and Master Electricians whose license renewals sneak up on them and continuing education classes to fulfill such requirements are not readily available.  

With this in mind, IEC Chesapeake is proud to announce its Affiliate Program with Mike Holt Enterprises to offer NEC online training that is not only affordable, but also provides contractors with great flexibility to fulfill their continuing education requirements.  Business Development representative for IEC Chesapeake, Mervin Muñoz, had this to say about the NEC online courses:   

“I am thrilled that IEC Chesapeake is now able to offer contractors a logical solution to help them fulfill their continuing education requirements – it’s just another ‘value-added’ resource at their fingertips.”

Chief Operations Officer of Mike Holt Enterprises, Belynda Holt, further comments:

“We are excited to hear that IEC Chesapeake is adapting to meet the needs of contractors that are unable to attend live classes with a logical proven solution. This partnership program with IEC Chesapeake is a great way for electricians to fulfill their continuing education requirements in DE, MD (Cecil & Queen Anne counties), NC, and VA.  Online training has become a popular training alternative for contractors.”


IEC Chesapeake is now offering two NEC online training courses as follows: Mike Holt’s 2008 Changes to the NEC (Parts 1 & 2 – Virginia) and 2008 Changes to the NEC Part 1 (Articles 100 to 376).  Please visit the Continuing Education section of IEC Chesapeake’s website at www.iec-chesapeake.com for more information or to register.

IEC Chesapeake and The Community College of the District of Columbia Offer Electrical Apprenticeship Program

The Independent Electrical Contractors – Chesapeake Chapter (IECC) and The University System of the District of Columbia are pleased to announce a joint effort to offer a regional Accelerated Electrical Apprenticeship program that combines hands-on-training with course-based instruction through UDC’s Community College (CCDC).

Beginning Spring 2011, CCDC workforce students in electrical programs will team with electrical contractors to gain on-the-job (OJT) experience. In addition, new electrical contractor apprentices in DC, Maryland, and Virginia will participate in CCDC electrical courses.

Course instruction for the first year of the apprenticeship model will be offered at the centrally located PR Harris Education Center and will be based on electrical apprenticeship curricula supported by industry leader, Mike Holt, which are approved both Federally and in the District of Columbia.  Hands-on-training will focus on basic wiring methods, pipe bending, and other activities to enhance the classroom experience.

The Accelerated Electrical Year One program is a first step by IECC and CCDC to promote collaboration in future training initiatives such as renewable energy, continuing education, and workforce development training to address the immediate needs of the DC Metropolitan and surrounding areas.  IECC and CDCC look forward to offering another Year-1 class in the Fall of 2011.

IEC Chesapeake members recognized in the online edition of the Electrical Distributor (tED) magazine for the installation of a 7.4 kW Photovoltaic system

IEC Chesapeake is proud to announce that two of its members, Atlantic Electric Supply Corp. and Ridgeway & Ernest Electrical, both received mention in the Distributor News section of the Electrical Distributor magazine online edition (tED Magazine) on January 25, 2011, as it relates to the 7.4 kW Photovoltaic (PV) system installed on Atlantic Electric Supply’s warehouse in Washington, D.C.  Please visit the following weblink for complete article details: 

http://www.tedmag.com/news/news-room/distributor-news/Distributor-News--1-25-2011.aspx

IEC Chesapeake is now included in IREC Directory Listing of Training Providers in Maryland

ODENTON, Maryland. – February 1, 2011 – IEC Chesapeake is proud to announce that it has been recently added to the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) Directory Listing of Training Providers in Maryland for the following technologies:  Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Renewable Energy, Solar, and Wind.   The following is the weblink to IEC Chesapeake’s listing for more information.

http://irecusa.org/irec-programs/workforce-development/education-information/training-providers/provider-listing/?id=340

IEC Chesapeake Receives Material Donation from Unirac for PV Racking System Training

ODENTON, Maryland — January 20, 2011 — IEC Chesapeake today announced that Unirac, North America’s leading provider of infrastructure for solar power systems, has donated racking system equipment that IEC Chesapeake will use to demonstrate flush or tilt-mount mounting configurations of solar panels.

“Unirac’s generous material donation enables IEC Chesapeake to deliver hands-on training that gives students a better understanding of what solar installers may use when installing PV racking equipment on residential, commercial, and industrial projects,” said Grant Shmelzer, IEC Chesapeake's executive director, who further added that “IEC Chesapeake now has the resources necessary to provide hands-on training and labs on PV racking systems to students in the electrical pre-apprenticeship & apprenticeship programs, career & technical education centers, and skill-upgrade continuing education classes.”

IEC Chesapeake strives to be a significant resource for training in the renewable energy market with the guidance of its Renewable Energy Committee and the support of leading solar industry manufacturers such as Unirac. The goal is to better serve the needs of the construction industry from entry-level workers to seasoned installers. 

About Unirac
Unirac, a Hilti company, is North America’s leading provider of infrastructure for solar power systems. Recognized as an industry innovator on both the product and process side, Unirac is one of the fastest growing companies in the solar industry. Unirac’s industrial-grade solar mount solutions meet ‘Made in America’, ‘Buy American’, ARRA and Ontario Power Authority FIT and microFIT criteria. For more information about Unirac, please visit www.unirac.com.

IEC Chesapeake Participates in Governor Martin O’Malley’s Maryland Forward Event:  Governor’s Forum on Skills and Education

IEC Chesapeake had the great privilege to participate in Governor Martin O’Malley’s Maryland Forward event on Monday, January 03, 2011 at Bowie State University.  The Governor’s Forum on Skills and Education included breakout sessions focusing on Building a World Class K-12 Education System, Promoting College Completion, and Advancing Skills2Compete.  

The Maryland Forward event was a successful follow-up to the Governor’s Forum on Jobs and the Economy last month, which was hosted at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in Gaithersburg, Md., reviewing Maryland’s economic development strategies and the state support needed to expand economic and employment growth.    

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at (301) 621-9545 Ext. 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor Approves IEC Chesapeake’s Electrical Apprenticeship Standards

IEC Chesapeake (IECC) is proud to announce that its Electrical Apprenticeship Standards were approved on Thursday, December 9th by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor during the Council’s monthly meeting at the Labor & Industry Building in Harrisburg, Pa.

IECC will now be able to offer electrical apprenticeship training in PA, specifically in the greater-Bucks County region through its collaborative relationship with Bucks County Community College (BCCC).  IECC’s apprenticeship program will be housed in BCCC’s 120,000 sq. ft. Green Jobs Academy (GJA) Building, which is outfitted with lab areas to accommodate hands-on activities.

Furthermore, the availability of IECC’s electrical apprenticeship program will also serve as another “next-step” training opportunity for students graduating from the Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Veterans currently being offered at the GJA through the concerted efforts of BCCC, IECC, and Veterans Green Jobs (VGJ).

With this in mind, IECC’s Electrical Apprenticeship program is an excellent resource for area contractors to consider since it is geared to prepare apprentices in better understanding the trade and code as they strive for a successful career in the electrical field.  IECC’s utilization of Mike Holt Enterprise’s Apprenticeship Curricula will be used to guide apprentices during their four-year journey in the program.

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at (301) 621-9545 Ext. 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

IEC Chesapeake Now Offering OSHA Online Training for Construction

IEC Chesapeake is now offering both OSHA 10- and 30-hour online training for construction through the American Safety Council.  Contractors now have a convenient training alternative to fulfill jobsite safety requirements with online access that is not only flexible but also affordable. 

Furthermore, individuals have up to six-months upon registering for the class to complete either online program and will receive a U.S. Department of Labor OSHA Training Card upon successful completion of the OSHA 10- or 30-hour online training respectively.

Having said that, the self-paced approach allows individuals to better manage and schedule their time accordingly since they can access the online training virtually anytime as opposed to sitting in class for at least two to four days or longer depending on the format of the class, which is a significant amount of time away from work. 

With this in mind, these online training opportunities are practical solutions for contractors to stay in compliance with project safety requirements without sacrificing productivity on the jobsite.  For more details or to register for either the OSHA 10- or 30-Hour online training, please visit the direct weblink as follows www.iecchesapeake.amersc.com.

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at (301) 621-9545 Ext. 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

IEC Chesapeake Invited to the National Skills Coalition’s 2011 Skills Summit

IEC Chesapeake was selected to participate in this all-day “invitation-only” event held in Washington, DC on February 15th and 16th of 2011 in a national effort to gather professionals and subject matter experts from different sectors of the industry to discuss federal policies to develop the skills of America’s workforce. 

In this forum, IEC Chesapeake shared its workforce development initiatives and insights, along with its challenges and successes, to give Members of Congress a better understanding of what the industry faces on a day-to-day basis and the support needed to effectively address America’s workforce needs both locally and nationally.  More about the National Skills Coalition can be found at www.nationalskillscoalition.org.    

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at 1-301-621-9545, extension 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

IEC Chesapeake Invited to Serve as an Advisor at the 2010 National Energy Technician Education Summit

IEC Chesapeake Executive Director, Grant Shmelzer, was nominated by a member of the Summit’s Steering Committee and invited to the National Energy Technician Education Summit as one of a select group of about 100 subject matter experts to serve as an advisor to stakeholders in energy technician education.

The Summit was hosted at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC from December 8th-10th by the National Science Foundation (NSF) in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) and the Advanced Technology Environmental and Energy Center (ATEEC). 

This collaborative forum enabled IEC Chesapeake, along with other educational institutions, professional organizations, and local, state, and federal government to contribute recommendations addressing issues affecting education, funding resources, outreach efforts, program development, and training opportunities of existing and future energy technicians nationwide. 

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at (301) 621-9545 Ext. 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

IEC Chesapeake Appointed to Serve on the Advisory Board for the Maryland Clean Energy Center Board


IEC Chesapeake Executive Director, Grant Shmelzer, has been recently appointed by the Board of Directors of the Maryland Clean Energy Center (MCEC) to serve on its Advisory Board for a one-year term starting January 1, 2011.

In this role, Grant will provide MCEC with valuable insight through his professional experiences with IEC Chesapeake, specifically with legislation, training, and workforce development initiatives in the renewable energy sector, which may assist MCEC in better channeling its efforts to advance energy efficiency practices and consumer adoption of clean energy products, services, and technologies.

With this in mind, IEC Chesapeake and its Renewable Energy Committee have worked together to develop and implement training opportunities to meet the growing demands of the renewable energy market in-house, as well as in collaboration with other entities to include career & technical education centers, community colleges, other solar and trade organizations, and veterans.  As IEC Chesapeake continues to evolve with the changing faces of the construction industry, it endeavors to be a primary resource to meet industry networking and training needs.

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at (301) 621-9545 Ext. 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

IEC Chesapeake Invited to Participate in Governor Martin O’Malley’s Forum on Jobs & the Economy

IEC Chesapeake, along with state and business workforce leaders, joined Governor Martin O’Malley to review Maryland’s economic development strategies in the upcoming years, specifically to share ideas about how expanded economic and employment growth can be supported by the state during these trying times.  The event was hosted at the National Institute of Standards and Technology on Monday, December 20th in Gaithersburg, Md.  IEC Chesapeake was honored to be included to participate in industry-specific breakout sessions, presentations, and discussions with Governor O’Malley.      

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at (301) 621-9545 Ext. 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Atlantic Electric Supply Installs 7.4 kW Photovoltaic (PV) System on its D.C. Warehouse

Atlantic Electric Supply Corp., a Washington, D.C.-based electrical distributor, installs a 7.4 kW Grid-Tied PV system on the roof of its warehouse in a proactive effort to promote “Green” technology.  The system is installed on a flat roof and is ballasted/semi-attached and consists of thirty-nine (39) BP 190 Watt PV modules.  Electrical contracting and consulting services for the job were provided by Don Bonnet, President of Ridgeway & Ernest Electric in Silver Spring, Maryland.



Atlantic Electric Supply is the first electrical distributor in the area to have a portion of its electricity provided by solar. The system will save an estimated $1,800 per year in electricity costs and will generate approximately nine (9) Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) per year.  Additionally, it will also reduce CO2 emissions by an estimated 14,000 lbs annually.



In addition to providing electricity, Atlantic’s PV system will be used as a hands-on educational aid for electrical contractors and others wishing to develop skills in the solar electric field.  Atlantic Electric Supply has been working closely with the Independent Electrical Contractors – Chesapeake Chapter in the development of PV training courses aimed at electricians interested in broadening their skills to include solar electric.



For further information, please contact Derek Coen, Vice President of Atlantic Electric Supply Corp., at (202) 526-1300 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .


About Atlantic Electric Supply and Ridgeway & Ernest


Atlantic Electric Supply Corp.
3726 Tenth Street, N.E., Washington, D.C.  20017
Phone (202) 526-1300 / Fax (202) 526-2291 / Website: www.atlanticelectricsupply.com


Atlantic Electric Supply is a privately held full-line electrical distributor that has been operating in Washington, DC since 1927. Clients include electrical contractors, residential and commercial builders, government agencies, property management and institutions.

Derek Coen is a Partner of Atlantic Electric Supply. He is a NABCEP-certified PV Installer and serves as the Renewable Energy Committee Chair for IEC Chesapeake.  He conducts regular solar training and develops outreach programs promoting the use of solar electric and energy efficient products.

Ridgeway & Ernest Electrical Contractors
628 Sligo Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
Phone (301) 585-2000 / Website: www.ridgewayandernest.com

Ridgeway & Ernest Electric has been operating in the Washington metropolitan area since 1936. With a proven reputation as a first-class company, they provide residential and commercial services including solar electric.  Ridgeway & Ernest holds licenses in Maryland, Virginia, District of Columbia and the surrounding counties and major cities within each state.

Maryland Governor’s Workforce Investment Board Invites IEC Chesapeake as a Co-Panelist for the Raising the Bar Conference

 

As the Maryland Governor’s Workforce Investment Board (GWIB) continues to develop policies and strategies to address industry needs in education, employment, and training, its Raising the Bar (RTB) Conference of 2010 was the perfect forum to bring professionals and subject matter experts together from different sectors of the industry to discuss prevalent workforce issues.

The RTB Annual Conference was held at the Turf Valley Inn & Conference Center in Ellicott City, Maryland this year on November 17^th & 18^th with an estimated 700 to 800 professionals in attendance from Maryland state and local workforce systems.

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at (301) 621-9545 Ext. 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The funds raised from the event will be donated to The Children’s Inn to help make sure that families have a place to stay where kids can just be kids during the most trying times.  Since The Inn opened in 1990, more than 10,000 children and families have stayed. For more information, visit The Inn’s website at www.childrensinn.org.

The following companies donated raffle prizes and silent auction items to support the charitable cause:

· Fuelman (www.fleetcor.com)

· Dominion Electric Supply (www.dominionelectric.com)

· National Golf Club at Tantallon (www.nationalgolfclubusa.com)

· Federated Insurance (www.federatedinsurance.com)

· IEC Chesapeake (www.iec-chesapeake.com)

· Entertainment Cruises (www.entertainmentcruises.com)

· Ennis Electric (www.enniselectric.com)

 

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at (301) 621-9545 Ext. 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

BoMark Electric- “Committed to the Power of Community Teamwork!”

A premiere Maryland contractor, BoMark Electric is diving in to support a wonderful community effort in Maryland. This fall Habitat for Humanity will be constructing two single family homes in Maryland and BoMark has stepped up to the plate to do it's part making this a 'Home Run' project! BoMark is giving back to our wonderful Maryland communities by volunteering time, labor, and materials to this meaningful community effort. The company will be teaming up with COPT (Corporate Offices Properties Trust) and other Maryland craftsmen to make this project a success. BoMark is a leader in commercial electrical contracting and structured cabling solutions. They are known throughout Maryland as the experienced go-to experts to get the job done professionally, timely and safely. BoMark's reputation of teamwork applies within our company, our customers, our vendors and most importantly our communities.

BoMark Electric, a Complete Electrical Construction & Maintenance Contractor is multi-faceted supporting residential, commercial & industrial markets in Maryland. Its founders Todd Bowings and Mark Huber are committed to the power of teamwork and are determined to bring quality workmanship to every customer creating lasting relationships. BoMark's mission is to create a synergy with each and every customer supporting & enhancing expertise, quality and innovation all in one stop.

BoMark represents three divisions to providing unsurpassed services to residential, commercial and industrial sectors. BoMark Electric supports all commercial & industrial construction & maintenance from design build to service work. BoMark Communications connects commercial, industrial & residential customers with all forms of structured cabling, low voltage applications and home automations such as security, intrusion alarm systems, video surveillance & monitoring, sound & paging, and access control & badging. Finally, our residential division @home electric, a trusted provider of inexpensive quality installation and service work for all home improvement or repair projects is leading the way in supporting the Baltimore Metropolitan home owner tackling all their residential needs.

Giving back to the community whenever possible is an important part of the BoMark Commitment to Teamwork. Teamwork impacts the BoMark company, their employees and their customers. Check BoMark Electric, BoMark Communications, and @home electric out on the web. Three divisions...one GREAT company!

 

(Owatonna, MN)  Twenty-one individuals, representing a cross-section of the specialty contracting industry, recently attended a two-and-a-half day Designated Risk Manager Training Seminar at Federated’s corporate headquarters in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Professional trainers and risk management experts covered a variety of topics, including hiring practices and background checks, employment-related practices liability, business succession planning, MVRs and driver standards, distracted driving, disaster planning, and work comp claims management.

IEC attendees learned that spending risk management dollars wisely can provide immediate savings to their businesses. According to Corey Newbern, Project Manager at Murrill Electric in Carlsbad, New Mexico, “The entire program was a good refresher and gave many good ideas. I definitely recommend the class.”

Federated is proud to be partnered with more than forty state and local IEC chapters to provide insurance and risk management services to their members.

Bausum & Duckett Electric Co. Celebrates 50 years of Service

(Annapolis, MD)  Bausum & Duckett Electric Co., a full-service residential and commercial electrical contractor serving the DelMarVa region, is celebrating its 50th anniversary—no small feat in a struggling economy that has seen many contractors shut their doors.

Bausum & Duckett’s longevity and strong reputation are a result of its steadfast commitment to exceptional service, according to Vice President, Mark Llewellyn.  “We’re here and still successful because we’re dedicated to serving our customers and our communities.   We’re committed to providing the best service possible — no matter how big or small the job— and this means staying on top of changing technology and trends so we meet our customers’ needs.”

Click Here For The Full Press Release

IEC Chesapeake awarded Educational Energy Grant from the Dominion Virginia Power for its Renewable Energy Awareness Project with Edison Academy of Alexandria, VA

Dominion Virginia Power recognized IEC Chesapeake as one of the educational grant recipients at the reception hosted at the Hollin Meadows Math and Science Focus School in Alexandria, Virginia, on Thursday, October 7, 2010 in the presence of distinguished guests and other award recipients.

IEC Chesapeake’s Renewable Energy Awareness Project with Edison Academy (Thomas A. Edison High School) is geared towards high school students in the Northern Virginia area to educate them about the emerging trend of renewable energy and technology and how that impacts not only the betterment of our environment, but also the career opportunities that the renewable energy market presents in both construction trades and other applicable fields.

This project will be conducted via classroom presentations incorporating a demonstration of two forms of renewable energy using a hybrid solar/wind training module.  The goal is to generate a heightened interest and peak the curiosity of students that have the potential to be our future leaders of the industry.  IEC Chesapeake greatly appreciates the workforce development support of Edison Academy!

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at 1-301-621-9545, extension 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Award Winners IEC Chesapeake and Standard Solar Recognized at the Maryland Clean Energy Summit 2010 for their Efforts in Clean Energy

The 2010 Maryland Clean Energy Summit was hosted on Monday, October 4^th at the Hilton Inner Harbor in Baltimore, MD.  The conference gathered leaders and professionals from different sectors of the industry with a “clean energy” focus on job creation and business development opportunities.

One of the highlights of the event was the Awards Banquet recognizing individuals and organizations for their support and implementation of clean energy initiatives in the industry. IEC Chesapeake and Standard Solar were each recognized as follows:

Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake, received the Advocacy Award, which recognizes the work of an individual, group or organization actively engaged in advancing and improving opportunities for business expansion, policy creation, and work force development.

Andrew Truitt, Director of Service and Residential Engineering for Standard Solar (IEC Chesapeake Member), received the Bright Light Award, which recognizes an individual or group’s contribution to the efforts of the Maryland Clean Energy Center (MCEC) to remove barriers to success, promote the MCEC mission and bridge gaps between industry and policy.

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at 1-301-621-9545, extension 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

IEC Chesapeake members, FAB Electric and Trunnell Electric, “generate” local community support in Maryland

IEC Chesapeake is proud to read about its Maryland members, FAB Electric and Trunnell Electric, of Gaithersburg and Rockville respectively, for their spotlight in an article by Cody Calamaio of The Gazette in the September 30, 2010 issue of the Washington Post.

 

The winter snow and summer storms of 2010 have resulted in multi-day power outages in local communities, and residents are now investing in generators to prepare and protect themselves from the discomforts and inconveniences that future power outages impose.

 

With this in mind, generator installations are becoming more popular and frequent.  Jim Fab of FAB Electric commented in the article that “everyone has certain luxuries, and it’s almost becoming standard or the norm to have a backup generator system.”  Fab further mentioned that he had gone from two installations to 10 over the past two or three months.

 

Neighboring electrical contractor, Trunnell Electric, has also experienced a significant increase in the demand for generator installations.  The owner, Jack Trunnell, shared in the article that he has contracted for or installed about 10 generators in the past six to eight weeks, which is an anomaly to his previous average of one installation per year.

 

Although current economic conditions compel consumers to think twice about “big ticket expenses,” it appears in this case that unpredictable weather conditions were the driving forces to “big ticket investments!”

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at 1-301-621-9545, extension 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Governor Ehrlich Addresses IEC Chesapeake Members at its Annual Electrical Inspectors Round Table Meeting in Odenton, MD

Republican Gubernatorial nominee Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. addressed a large crowd of IEC Chesapeake members on Wednesday 29^th at their main office in Odenton, MD.  Governor Ehrlich outlined his vision about improving the Maryland business climate and making it better.

It was during this forum that IEC Chesapeake members expressed their concerns to Governor Ehrlich about the rising cost of unemployment benefits and project labor agreements (PLAs) among other issues.  Channel 13 WJZ TV and local media attended Governor Ehrlich’s guest appearance at the IEC Chesapeake meeting.

IEC Chesapeake is pleased that Governor Ehrlich invested an hour of his time with its members in the midst of a highly competitive election campaign.  IEC Chesapeake wants to ensure that candidates understand contractors’ concerns about improving Maryland’s business climate.

For further information, please contact Grant Shmelzer, Executive Director of IEC Chesapeake at 1-301-621-9545, extension 114 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

IEC Chesapeake Implements Mike Holt Curriculum for 2010/2011 School Year:
Maryland Apprenticeship Training Council (MATC) Approves New Program

On Tuesday, September 14, 2010, the Maryland Apprenticeship Training Council (MATC) approved IEC Chesapeake’s revised Apprenticeship Standards with significant changes to its four-year electrical apprenticeship program curriculum designed around Mike Holt Enterprises’ four-year apprenticeship curriculum.  This four-year apprenticeship curriculum has also been approved in Virginia by the Virginia Community College System (VCCS), as well as with the DC Apprenticeship Council. Read the full release here.

Maryland Career & Technology Student Organization Wins 20 Medals at National Leadership and Skills Conference

 

61 SkillsUSA Maryland’s competitors finish in national “Top Ten” Click Here for the full release.

PROPOSED PERMIT FEE INCREASES - Baltimore County

Baltimore County Department of Electrical Inspections has been notified that The Department of Permits and Development Management has proposed permit fee increases. The increases were introduced to the County Council on 4/19/2010 and the vote will take place on 5/27/2010.  The fee schedule will be posted to the public by mid June.

Committed to the Industry

The Independent Electrical Contractors - Chesapeake Chapter (IEC Chesapeake) has partnered in a strategic alliance with National Training Center (NTC).  IEC Chesapeake has chosen NTC to be their primary training provider, providing training to their members in the following major product categories:  NICET, Fire Alarm, Fire Alarm Systems, Low Voltage Systems, Security Systems, Video Systems, Access Control, Residential Audio/Video, and Networking/IP.  The training will be implemented in a number of ways, through NTC’s professional reference books, online self-paced training program – Training Department, and Live Webinar courses held throughout the year. Click here for the full release.

 

IEC Member Hawkins Electric participates "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"

Hawkins Electric Service, Inc., a full-service residential and commercial electrical contractor that has served the Washington, D.C./Baltimore region since 1918, has joined with ABC Television's Emmy-award winning reality TV show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," and partnered with area Builders to provide electrical services for two structures that were built. The show will air Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. eastern time.

CLS & Tristate Are United As One - Click here for the full Special Report from Capital Lighting & Supply.  

IEC Chesapeake Partner Member Zanger Associates, Inc. has been appointed the Stock/Flow agent for Lightolier effective January 4, 2010. Lightolier is a recognized leader in the Recessed and Track lighting market. Other Philip’s brands that Zanger Associates, Inc. represents include Crescent Stonco, Forecast, Hadco Landscape Lighting and Hanover Lantern.  Contact Zanger Associates, Inc. at 410-795-5800 or visit their website at www.zangerassociates.com.

IREC's Net Metering & Interconnection State-by-State Tables for January 2010 Now Available. Visit their website: irecusa.org

groSolar and IEC Chesapeake partner to Provide Solar Training Seminars - Click here for information

IEC-Chesapeake Becomes Solmetric SunEye Distributor - Click here for information

Fairfax County Virginia - Fire Protection Equipment and System Installations, Modifications, Rehabilitation,
and Component Replacements (Repair): Construction Permit Requirements - Click here for information!

Baltimore County now requires Carbon Monoxide Alarms in Rental Properties

Did you know that Baltimore County has passed a law that makes Carbon Monoxide Alarms mandatory in all rental properties with fossil fuel burning appliances? Baltimore County Council members unanimously passed legislation making CO Alarms mandatory and only gave 8 months to get compliant. BRK Electronics and Phoenix Sales can help. Contact them for a copy of the legislation and a list of CO Alarms that are recommended and compliant.
Contact Phoenix Sales & Marketing at 410-247-5505.

Fauquier County Third Party Inspections

Fauquier County now allows Third Party Inspections. Click on above link for more information.

MARYLAND - Solar, Wind, Geothermal Rebates Suspended
Federal economic stimulus funds are expected to support a large portion of the total funding for Maryland's renewable-energy rebate programs during fiscal year 2009-2010. However, due to uncertainty about requirements associated with the use of these funds, Maryland has suspended its renewables programs, pending further guidance from the federal government. The state intends to re-open the programs by October 19, 2009 (solar rebate: see DSIRE record; wind rebate: see DSIRE record; geothermal rebate: see DSIRE record ).

VIRGINIA - Renewable Energy Rebates Established (But Not Yet Available)
The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals, and Energy (DMME) is utilizing $15 million dollars in federal stimulus funds to provide residential and commercial rebates for solar-thermal, photovoltaic and wind-energy systems. Details are not yet finalized, but DMME encourages interested Virginians to sign up for updates. The expected launch date for the new program is November 1 (commercial rebate: see DSIRE record; residential rebate: see DSIRE record). 

Federated Hosts Designated Risk Manager Seminar
IEC Members Attend Training

The IEC Chesapeake fundraising event was hosted at Tommy Joe’s Restaurant in Bethesda, MD on November 11^th and was attended by IEC Chesapeake members, families, and friends with additional support from representatives of The Children’s Inn and patrons of Tommy Joe’s.

 The Inn is a nonprofit “place like home” for children and families participating in groundbreaking medical research at the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Md. This year, The Inn is celebrating its 20^th anniversary, offering children and families from across the country and more than 80 countries a safe, comfortable residence. Families stay free of charge no matter how long they need treatment at NIH.

IEC Chesapeake raised over $1,500 through in-kind contributions, raffle ticket sales, and silent auction bids during last week’s Happy Hour Fundraiser Event for The Children’s Inn at NIH.

IEC Chesapeake’s Fundraiser Raises More Than $1,500 To Benefit The Children’s Inn at NIH

IEC Chesapeake Executive Director, Grant Shmelzer, served as a co-panelist on the Illuminating Great Careers Panel with HR Managers from MD Energy and Energy-Efficiency Employers.   Grant contributed to the panel discussion by sharing his insight and involvement in keeping up with the evolving career trends of the electrical market through training, as well as reviewing basic skill-sets, certifications, and training that would provide candidates with more leverage when pursuing or transitioning into new careers, especially in the Solar and Wind markets.