NECA 2008 Chicago boasted more technical and pre-convention workshops than any previous convention or trade show. Attendees packed sessions covering opportunities in the solar photovoltaic market, how to use LEDs in new lighting installations, and what NFPA 70E compliance in personal protective equipment will mean for their companies before the convention kicked off.

NECA 2008 Chicago marked the first time the association has partnered with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to produce an educational session. "LEED for New Construction Technical Review" was a full-day program is designed for contractors and project managers who have a basic knowledge of LEED and want to delve deeper into the technical requirements of the rating, and the building certification process as well as other implementation strategies.

Management workshops were held throughout the convention, covering the issues that impact electrical contractor’s business. Current economic concerns had sessions like "Financial Planning" and "Streamlining Home Office Operations" full. ELECTRI International researcher Tom Glavinich led the session on home office operations.

"Right now, contractors need to understand how documenting processes can help them save money and time," Glavinich said. "There will still be growth opportunities for some contractors during these times, and such documentation will reduce risk and improve profitably if they should decide to expand."

Hand-outs from all NECA 2008 Chicago management seminars will be available for download on blog.necaconvention.org by Oct. 30.