Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) trains non-union electricians across the country. The central Indiana chapter of IEC, IEC Indy, was established in 1996 and includes over 45 local companies as members. Each year, IEC Indy holds an “Apprentice of the Year” competition to select one of its apprentices to compete in the IEC National Apprentice of the Year competition. The competition tests apprentice skills in the following areas:
- A written exam to evaluate their knowledge of electrical theory, code, materials, and installation practices.
- Preparation of a motor logic diagram based on a written description of a field application.
- Bending electrical metallic tubing.
- Troubleshooting by accurately diagnosing a fault in a common piece of electrical equipment.
- Demonstrate their jobsite productivity by participating in a speed exercise in which they install common electrical circuitry.
- Accurately installing electrical distribution and control circuitry utilizing customer-supplied materials, circuit descriptions, specification, and control diagrams.
- Demonstrating their knowledge of safe work practices.