NECA 2025 Preview

It's almost time for thousands of electrical professionals to gather at one of the most important industry events of the year — the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Convention and Trade Show. This year's event takes place from September 12 - 15 at the McCormick Place West Convention Center in Chicago. If you’re planning on attending, here are some of the highlights you can look forward to:

Session Speakers

As always, this year’s show features some major star power. Attendees can hear speaker sessions with basketball legend Scottie Pippen and award-winning actor, director, and producer, Henry Winkler.

Scottie Pippen will be speaking at the opening general session on Saturday, September 13 from 10 am – 11:30 am. Henry Winkler will be speaking at the closing general session on Monday, September 15 from 1:15 pm – 2:30 pm.

In addition, there will be a special general session on Saturday, September 14 that offers NECA attendees an opportunity to hear from NECA and IBEW leadership on the critical Labor Relations issues shaping the evolution of the electrical industry. At this labor relations fireside chat, attendees will gain insight into national trends, partnership strategies, and workforce development.

Opening Reception

Fancy a trip back in time? No, NECA hasn’t perfected time travel, but the opening reception will give attendees a taste of the grandeur of the 1893 World’s Fair and the glamour of the Roaring ‘20s.

At the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, attendees “can explore the wonders of science through interactive NECA installations showcasing the marvels of electricity and 19th-century breakthroughs.”

 The reception will offer World’s Fair-inspired concessions and 1920s-style cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Guests can enjoy era-themed games and activities and hit the dance floor with Milwaukee Tool’s Tool Shed Band.

Sponsored highlights at the event include:

• Dawn of Transportation sponsored by Graybar
• Devil in the White City sponsored by Atkore
• World’s Fair sponsored by Schneider Electric
• After Party sponsored by Milwaukee Tool

The opening reception is on Friday, September 14 from 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm, with an after party from 9:30 pm – 10:30 pm.

Closing Reception and Musical Guests

This year’s closing ceremony is being billed as the ultimate “Mowtown Showdown.”

At the Aon Ballroom, Navy Pier on Monday, September 15, “two of the most iconic Motown groups of all time — The Temptations and The Four Tops — will go head-to-head in an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and Motown magic.”

First, the Temptations will deliver their hits like “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.” Then, The Four Tops take the stage for their hits including “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch),” “Reach Out I’ll Be There,” and “Bernadette.”

The night will feature an open bar, room for dancing, and both indoor and outdoor spaces offering views of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan.

Doors open at 7 pm and music begins at 8:15 pm.

Apprentice Appreciation Day

NECA's annual Apprentice Appreciation Day returns on Sunday, September 14. NECA has a special program planned for apprentices of all skill levels of electrical construction that features guest speakers from around the industry.

New for 2025, Apprentice Day features an exclusive experience just for outside line apprentices. Housed in the new High Voltage Village, don’t miss the hands-on apprentice challenges. More information on the new experience is available here.

Give Back

This year's NECA Adopt-a-School program will benefit  focus on Hope Academy in Chicago. The silent auction, sponsored by 3M, is back with sports memorabilia, exotic trips, fine wine and liquor packages, jewelry, and more.

NECA Park

Kick off your NECA at the new NECA Park, a networking hub located right at the entrance. Enjoy interactive games, snacks, and celebrate our industry’s award winners. Located at the park is the popular Pause for Paws, sponsored by Graybar, which supports local animal rescues dedicated to making a difference in the lives on animals. If you need a break from the show floor, stop by here to hang with some furry friends!