When you enter the workforce as an electrician, you are not alone.
There are certain groups you can join who will look out for your interests, help you network within the field, and offer insightful industry-specific information, among other things.
There are many of these trade associations in Houston, TX, which can make it complex decision for electricians to decide on a group to join.
Here’s a guide that will help point you in the right direction of how to find a group that makes sense for you, or any other aspiring electrician out there.
What is a trade organization?
If you’ve been wondering “what is a trade association?” you’re not alone.
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Many skilled trades workers, and even those thinking about starting a career in the trades, have the same question.
In short, a trade association is an organization of industry-specific businesses that organize together to promote opportunities and positive developments within the industry.
What does a trade association do?
Why join a trade association in Houston, TX? That’s a great question!
The advantages to becoming a member of a trade organization.
- Having your name associated with a well-known association can help your reputation. Potential employers and clients might see you as more professional and experienced.
- Joining these groups can also unlock a wealth of educational and networking opportunities for members.2
- The interaction you have with fellow members can expose you to new methods, techniques, or practices that might improve your skills—and make you ore employable.
Trade associations electricians can join in Houston, TX.
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
NECA positions itself as the “voice…of the electrical construction industry.”
With over 4,000 member businesses, it’s one of the largest electrician organizations in the country.
NECA provides members with resources that can help them make full use of industry-leading technology, improve their business decisions, and increase the quality of their customer service.3
Electricians who join NECA get access to a wealth of offerings, including market insights, networking events, technical guides, discounts, industry-specific apps, and much more.
Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC)
IEC is an electrician-focused trade association that seeks to build a stronger electrical industry with a skilled, prepared, and successful workforce.
IEC offers training programs, resources, and special events for electricians and even advocates for legislative changes that would benefit the industry.
You might be wondering: Is IEC a union? Actually, it’s a non-profit trade organization with no formal agreement or contract required for participants.
Currently, over 80,000 professionals work for electrical companies that are IEC members.
Federated Electrical Contractors (FEC)
The FEC is a prominent international trade association focusing solely on electricians. It covers the United States, Canada, and a variety of other countries across the world.
The FEC’s goal is to improve the quality of service throughout the industry by creating a “joint-venture network,” bringing together electricians from the international community.
According to the FEC, the trade organization has a proven history of success in challenging jobs for some of the most prominent businesses in the world.
What are the benefits of joining a trade association in Houston, TX?
Rewarding networking opportunities.
People tout the importance of networking in more traditional business professions, but networking matters for skilled trades workers too.
A principal advantage of trade organizations is the networking opportunities that open for members. Electricians have a chance of connecting with potential partners and clients.
These networking opportunities don’t appear out of thin air.
Electricians must put themselves out there, introduce themselves, and create relationships with trade organization members in Houston, TX.
Improving reputation and credibility.
Starting a career as an electrician isn’t always easy.
Joining a well-regarded trade association is an excellent way for electricians to quickly boost their reputation and meet people.
Being part of one of these organizations can also make you seem more trustworthy to customers. More trust can turn into more business from new and repeat customers who need the work electricians provide.
Promoting industry-wide improvements.
One of the larger and more impactful benefits of joining a trade association is the influence electricians can have on major, industry-wide changes.
Many trade organizations push for legislation and policies that would improve the entire sector. The momentum an entire organization can generate will overshadow what individual electricians can accomplish alone.
Start a career as an electrician.
One of the best places to start is exploring vocational programs that prepare people for a career in the trades.
Tulsa Welding School offers specialized electrician programs specifically designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to enter the workforce confidently.
Contact us today to learn more about our programs. Call (855) 806-4921.
Find out what it takes to become an electrician.
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