01/16/2026

ECA Student Committee Update

ECIC 2026

ECA Student Committee Update
ECIC 2026

The ECA Student Committee recently met and discussed possible outreach to institutions in addition to Illinois Tech (IIT) as a pipeline to students, as well as more networking opportunities with the students: inviting them to applicable ECA Membership meetings and ECA YP events.

Also, Dr. Dan Tomal, IIT Facilitator, is looking for speakers for this semester to assist with the 2026 Electrical Contracting Innovation Challenge (ECIC) competition. CLICK HERE for the rubrics the students will need to follow in their design of an electrical project. The presentations would start late January (Thursday evenings at 6:30 pm) throughout the semester. Topic areas / aspects of electrical construction that the students will need assistance with include: Project Management execution, BIM coordination, Design-Build, Bidding and Estimating.

Again, the students need presenters who can give an overview of the above areas. This is a more complex project than in the past. The students will need a 'hands-on" approach to better understand the details. Whoever presents will be asked to follow-up with the students with any questions or offer examples of practical use in the industry on whatever topic - somewhat as in a mentor role. Possibly, students visiting a contractor's office or jobsite will be needed, as well.

If you’re able to assist, please contact the ECA office at: (708) 531-0022. Thank you for your support!

Pictured above are the current Illinois Tech students and Dr. Dan Tomal (center),
who are soon to begin working on the ECIC for this semester. 
Good luck to the students!