Blog
Access valuable resources designed specifically for electricians and contractors in the Pacific Northwest. Stay ahead of the curve with our real-time updates on industry trends, innovations, and regional news.
Contact
Email – info@necaibew48.com
NECA – orecolneca.org | info@orecolneca.org
IBEW 48 – ibew48.com | info@necaibew48.com
Training Center – nietc.org
About
For over a century, NECA/IBEW Local 48’s electricians have helped build Oregon and SW Washington. NECA and IBEW Local 48 have partnered in labor-management relations to lead the region’s electrical industry, working on such high-profile projects as the Rose Garden Arena (now the Moda Center), Portland International Airport, Tilikum Crossing and MAX Light Rail stations.
Our contractors are located in: Astoria, Banks, Battleground, Beaverton, Clackamas, Estacada, Fairview, Forest Grove, Garibaldi, Gresham, Happy Valley, Hillsboro, Hood River, Longview, Manning, Milwaukie, Molalla, Mulino, North Plains, Oregon City, Portland, Salem, Sandy, Scappoose, The Dalles, Tigard, Troutdale, Tualatin, Vancouver, Vernonia, Warrenton, and Yamhill.
How Pacific Northwest Electricians Maintain Safe, Efficient Water Infrastructure
BlogElectrical systems are at the heart of every water treatment and reclamation plant. Pumps, motors, variable frequency drives, control panels, and monitoring systems all rely on skilled electrical professionals to keep operations running safely and efficiently. But aging infrastructure, tight budgets, and weather disasters are putting extra strain on these systems. Across the Pacific Northwest, […]
The Impact of Climate Change on Electrical Work & Careers
BlogClimate change is reshaping how we generate, deliver, and use electricity. Across the Pacific Northwest, shifting weather patterns, rising temperatures, and increasing intensity of storms are testing the limits of our power systems and infrastructure. These challenges signal an emerging transformation in the electrical industry. New builds and retrofits will require professionals knowledgeable in supporting […]
What Roles Do Electricians Play in Cybersecurity & the Digital Age?
BlogThe role of electricians has always been about keeping systems safe, efficient, and reliable. In today’s connected world, that mission extends far beyond wiring and circuits. 48% of global business leaders are prioritizing data protection, calling for cybersecurity and electrical construction to be intertwined. Electricians in the digital age are now key players in network […]
DERs Are Reshaping the Grid: Here’s What’s Happening
BlogEnergy awareness is growing fast among both homeowners and business owners. In the Northwest alone, energy demand is expected to double by 2046, fueled by automation, electrification, and the ongoing push to save on energy costs. This surge in demand means the power grid needs to evolve, and electrical professionals will be at the forefront. […]
Where Are We at with the “Electrification of Everything”?
BlogThe push toward electrification in the Pacific Northwest isn’t new; it has been decades in the making. Climate directives, renewable energy investments, and a growing tech sector have all set the stage. Today, the “electrification of everything” is no longer just a concept; it is happening now, reshaping how we live, work, and move. Across […]
2026 Electrical Industry Outlook: Changes, Challenges & Possibilities
BlogThe electrical industry is heading into 2026 with mixed signals. Economic uncertainty, stalled projects, and challenges and unpredictability in the labor market are creating concerns within the community. At the same time, the push toward electrification needs the electrical workforce to help with infrastructure to meet rising energy demand. The State of Commercial & Residential […]
Off the Clock, Still Carrying the Load: Navigating Life Stress in the Trades
BlogThe electrical trade can be a high-pressure environment that involves managing complex systems and maintaining high safety standards. The link between workplace challenges and stress in the industry has been well-established. However, the whole picture encompasses much more than job-site pressures. Personal stressors outside of work don’t pause when people clock in. Life happens, and […]
What Role Will Electricians Play in the Growth of Thermal Energy Networks (TENs)?
BlogAcross the Pacific Northwest, cities are reimagining how buildings are powered and kept comfortable. Thermal Energy Networks (TENs) are rising as a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems, and they’re opening the door for electrical professionals to take the lead in shaping the future of building energy. What are Thermal Energy […]
2026 & Beyond: Trends Shaping the Electrical Industry’s Future
BlogThe electrical profession is experiencing a wealth of exciting technological innovations, operational changes, and market shifts, as well as transforming energy systems and infrastructure. Understanding these transformations provides electrical professionals with invaluable insight into the industry’s modernization efforts in 2026 and beyond, thereby helping them remain competitive in an evolving marketplace. 4 Trends Shaping the […]
Inside Fault-Managed Power: Evolving Standards, Smarter Installs, New Possibilities
BlogFault-Managed Power (FMP) is more than a breakthrough; it’s reshaping the future of electrical systems. As customer expectations rise and safety standards evolve, FMP is opening new doors for electrical professionals to grow their skills, services, and competitive edge. In this blog, we’ll break down how this emerging technology is transforming the way we deliver […]