Each year, thousands of electrical professionals gather at one of the most important industry events of the year — the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Convention and Trade Show. This year, the event takes place from September 29 to October 2 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in downtown Philadelphia. If you’re planning on attending, here are some of the highlights you can look forward to:
Exciting session speakers
This year’s panel of keynote speakers include Jay Wright, Julius “Dr. J” Erving, and Robyn Benincasa. Wright is the former Villanova head basketball coach and is a CBS Sports college basketball analyst who kicks off the opening general session on September 30 at 10 a.m. Erving, a legendary professional basketball player, is the featured speaker during the general session on October 1 at 10 a.m.. Finally, listen to Benincasa, a world champion Eco-Challenge Adventure racer and New York Times best-selling author share her story during the closing general session on October 2 at 1:15 p.m.
Opening reception
This year’s opening reception will take place at an iconic Philadelphia landmark – Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Eagles football team. Join other NECA attendees on Friday, September 29 in the evening to check out the stadium’s premium club spaces, experience a behind-the-scenes look at the post-game conference and home team locker rooms, and much more.
Musical guests
This year’s special musical feature is REO Speedwagon, who will perform from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on October 2 to close out the event with popular songs, such as “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” “Roll With the Changes,” and many more. For more relaxed vibes, visit the Songbird Café in between visiting booths on the show floor.
A celebration of apprentices
Nearly 1,500 apprentices will be attending the 2023 NECA event. On October 1 in the morning, NECA will host its annual Apprentice Appreciation Day, featuring special programming geared toward apprentices at all levels of electrical construction. This program’s highlighted speaker is Patrick J. Murphy, former secretary of the Army.
Give-back opportunities
This year, NECA’s Adopt-a-School program is focusing on the Mercy Career & Technical High School in Philadelphia. Take part in the silent auction to support this great cause and for a chance to win a prize.
Relax in between booth visits & educational sessions
Take a break from educational sessions and visiting manufacturer booths to meet some lovable dogs and cats from a local Philadelphia-area animal rescue. In past years, this NECA staple has featured dogs and puppies, but this year, Pause for Paws will include Claws for a Cause – including cats and kittens. If you’re looking for something more active, you can participate in some games in the NECA Sports Zone on the show floor.
Join a fun run
If you’re looking for an opportunity to squeeze in a workout before the final day of NECA, you can participate in the 2023 Rocky Run. Hosted by NECA’s Penn-Del-Jersey chapter, it will be held at 7 a.m. on October 2, takes place along the scenic Schuylkill Trail, and concludes with breakfast at the historical Philadelphia Water Works. All proceeds will benefits the Philadelphia Police Athletic League, which helps underserved children in the local area.
About the Author
Ellie Coggins Angus
Ellie Coggins Angus is the managing editor for EC&M and was formerly the associate editor for Electrical Wholesaling. She has more than five years of experience in the B2B publishing space covering the electrical contracting/wholesaling industry. Ellie received an MA in journalism from Syracuse University and a BA in English from University of Cincinnati. She is currently based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Connect with her at [email protected] or on LinkedIn.