An electrical contractor places, installs, erects or connects any electric wires, fixtures, appliances, apparatus, raceways, conduits, solar photovoltaic cells or any part thereof which generate, transmit, transform or utilize electricity in any form or for any purpose. It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to engage in the business of electrical contracting without first registering and obtaining a license from the Town Board.
The demand for electricians is growing due to the need for new construction or remodeling projects, and the rise in 5G technology, demand from data centers and the shift toward clean energy will further fuel this growth. However, the US electrical contractors industry faces several challenges.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 650,000 people work in the electrical contracting industry in the United States. These individuals perform many important duties, including maintaining and repairing electrical wiring and equipment, fitting new equipment, and replacing components. In addition, the profession is prone to numerous nonfatal injuries and illnesses that result in lost work days. This can impact a company’s profitability and lead to missed deadlines on construction projects.
These factors make it essential for companies in the industry to maintain a strong safety program, and promote best practices to protect their employees’ health and well-being. A successful safety program should include regular training, written policies and procedures, a dedicated coordinator or safety manager and an active committee. The benefits of having a strong safety program include reduced workers’ compensation costs and improved employee retention.
Despite the ongoing challenges in the industry, many electrical contractors are optimistic about the future. This is primarily due to the demand for residential and commercial construction. The increase in these types of projects is due to the increasing population, aging infrastructure and the need for more storage and energy.
The top electrical contractors in the country are thriving despite the economic downturn. In fact, Rosendin Electric reported that they saw a significant increase in the percentage of incomplete plans and specifications received for new commercial construction, single-family homes and industrial construction projects over the past two years. The trend also reflects the challenging market conditions, such as high material and supply chain costs, that have made it difficult for electrical contractors to compete on lump-sum proposals.
In addition to ensuring that all employees are fully trained and qualified, it is important for electrical contractors to build trust with their customers through effective marketing strategies. This includes highlighting positive customer experiences on their websites and social media channels. A tool such as Podium Reviews is a great way to do this, and helps to streamline the process of collecting and managing reviews efficiently. By humanizing the brand and sharing professional experiences, electrical contractors can foster lasting relationships with their clients. This will in turn, drive new business and growth for their businesses.
