Electric Utility Organizations

Electric utility organizations offer members numerous tools and resources to boost their careers
By Kelly Shetsky, Anchor/Reporter Electrician organizations are a collection of industry professionals who are passionate about their field and want want to share their knowledge and experiences with others. Electric utility associations offer networking opportunities, support and solutions and members come from many different sectors of the industry, from specialized electricians to suppliers of electronic parts and components.

Electrical organizations link you to industry news, workshops and other resources, giving you the tools needed to identify emerging trends and challenges in the industry. You exchange ideas about technological advancements and industry developments, while solving problems, building quality working relationships and developing an educated workforce. Consider:

1. Using electrical organizations to enhance your networking and professional skills.

2. Comparing different electrician organizations' membership levels.

3. Participating in educational opportunities within the industry.

Use electric utility organizations to meet and network with other professionals

Electrical trade organizations vary from national associations to statewide and local ones. Most share a common goal: to promote and advance the electrical industry in a responsible manner.
Try:  Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) is an electric utility association for companies in Canada. The organization offers industry information, career opportunities, news, product catalogs and market information. Review upcoming meetings, forums and workshops. International District Energy Association (IDEA) is an electricity association that fosters leadership and promotes economical, reliable, environmentally sound and efficient energy services. IDEA's vision is to advance global environmental quality through efficient district energy. Network with other industry leaders through conferences and workshops. International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) is an educational organization that promotes the safe installation and use of electricity. Use the Global Forum to chat, ask questions and learn about new technology.

Pay annual dues to join an electric utility association

Electric utility organizations' membership fees follow a structure and depends on the level you choose.
Try:  Public Citizen, Inc. is a non-profit organization that promotes energy efficiency technology and provides information on utility deregulation. New members receive informational newsletters. Council of Industrial Boiler Owners (CIBO) is an association of industrial boiler owners, related equipment manufacturers, architect-engineers and universities from numerous sectors, including the energy industry. Join as an active, associate or university member.

Benefit from the tools and resources offered by an electric utility association

When you join public power organizations, you gain access to many career development tools such as magazines, business reports, a career center, courses and seminars. Boost your career and skill level with these resources at your disposal.
Try:  American Public Works Association (APWA) is an electricity association that provides international, educational and professional services of private sector companies, public agencies and individuals. APWA has a credential program that promotes your career development. It provides recognized promotion and hiring standards that cultivate an improved workforce and improved delivery of services. National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED) is a group focused on promoting the rights of electrical distributors. Use teleconferences and webinars to learn about insider tips and software solutions.

• You can save money if you register your entire company with an electric utility group, instead of signing up for individual membership.