Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Electrical Industry Partner
Founded in 1957, Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) has dedicated over six decades to advancing the merit shop electrical contracting industry. As a national trade association federation with 53 educational campuses and local chapters, we represent 4,100+ member businesses and train 17,000+ electrical apprentices annually through U.S. Department of Labor-recognized programs. Our comprehensive approach combines world-class apprenticeship training with strategic advocacy at all governmental levels, workforce development initiatives, and industry-leading safety resources.Through our network of educational campuses, we provide both classroom instruction and hands-on training while actively shaping national electrical codes and standards. Our organization maintains a strong focus on promoting merit shop principles that emphasize fair competition, individual performance, and equal opportunity. We offer member businesses access to exclusive discounts, professional development opportunities, and a powerful collective voice in legislative matters affecting the electrical industry.
Services
Electrical Apprenticeship
Workforce Development
Industry Advocacy
Safety Training
Code Standards
Member Discounts
Professional Development
Legislative Representation
Training Curriculum
Chapter Support
Details
- Year established: 1957
Highlights and features
- We offer nationwide electrical apprenticeship programs with 53 educational campuses
- Our training is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor with college credit options
- We provide 57 college credits through the American Council on Education
- We offer tuition assistance through employer partnerships
- We advocate for merit shop electrical contractors at national legislative levels
Associations and certifications
- U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Apprenticeship & Training
Services
Electrical Apprenticeship Program
Our four-year electrical apprenticeship program combines 8,000+ hours of on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices receive comprehensive education in electrical theory, safety practices, and code compliance while earning wages. The program is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor and offers 57 college credits through the American Council on Education.
Industry Advocacy
We actively advocate for merit shop electrical contractors at local, state, and national levels. Our advocacy efforts focus on labor relations, workforce development policies, and regulatory issues affecting the electrical industry. We provide members with resources to engage in policy discussions and influence legislation impacting their businesses.
Workforce Development
Our workforce development initiatives include safety training, code compliance education, and professional development programs. Through 53 educational campuses nationwide, we offer continuing education courses, instructor certification programs, and specialized training in emerging electrical technologies to support career advancement in the electrical field.
Member Benefits
IEC members receive exclusive business benefits including discounted services, networking opportunities, and operational resources. Our member discount program offers savings on equipment, software, and business services. We also provide access to industry forums, safety resources, and marketing tools to help electrical contractors grow their businesses.
Safety Training
We offer comprehensive safety training programs and resources to ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and industry standards. Our safety initiatives include the IEC Safety Manual, Jobsite Safety Handbook, and training on arc flash protection, lockout procedures, and electrical hazard prevention for electrical contractors and their teams.
People
Amy Biedenharn
Executive Director
Amy Biedenharn leads IEC's national operations with extensive experience in association management and nonprofit leadership. She oversees strategic initiatives, organizational development, and industry partnerships to advance the merit shop electrical contracting industry through education and advocacy.
David Hittinger
Director, Codes, Standards, & Safety
David Hittinger directs IEC's efforts in codes and standards development with deep expertise in electrical safety regulations. He represents the organization in national code development committees and provides technical guidance to ensure members maintain compliance with evolving industry safety requirements.
Chrissy Skudera
Senior Director, Training & Curriculum Development
Chrissy Skudera leads the development of IEC's world-class training programs with a focus on modernizing electrical education. She oversees curriculum design, instructor certification, and program enhancements to ensure apprentices receive cutting-edge training aligned with industry needs.
Questions
What does Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) do?
IEC is a national nonprofit representing merit shop electrical contractors. We provide apprenticeship training, industry advocacy, workforce development programs, and business resources to support electrical contractors nationwide.
How can I become an electrician through IEC's program?
Our electrical apprenticeship program combines 8,000+ hours of on-the-job training with classroom instruction. You'll earn while you learn, receive college credits, and gain skills through U.S. Department of Labor-recognized training.
What benefits do IEC membership offer electrical contractors?
IEC membership provides access to apprenticeship programs, industry advocacy, safety resources, exclusive business discounts, professional development opportunities, and a collective voice in legislative matters affecting the electrical industry.
What is the merit shop philosophy promoted by IEC?
Merit shop philosophy emphasizes fair competition, individual performance, and equal opportunity. It ensures success is earned through skill and dedication rather than union affiliation, supporting open competition in the electrical contracting industry.
How does IEC support workforce development in the electrical industry?
We operate 53 educational campuses nationwide, train over 17,000 apprentices annually, and offer continuing education programs. Our workforce development initiatives include safety training, code compliance education, and industry-specific skill development.
