Each year, thousands of electrical professionals gather at one of the most important industry events – the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Convention & Trade Show. This year, the event takes place from October 16 to 18 in Austin, Texas. While there will be a plethora of electrical educational seminars and exhibitor booths to visit, NECA 2022 is also hosting a wide array of fun highlights that are sure to entertain attendees and their families. Here’s a preview of NECA 2022’s biggest features (some electrical related and some not!) that you won’t want to miss out on.
Big-name speakers
Each day’s general session will feature a highly anticipated speaker. On Sunday, October 16, Travis Mills (retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and founder of the Travis Mills Foundation) will kick off the opening general session to share his inspiring story. On Monday morning, Emmitt Smith, Hall of Fame National Football League (NFL) running back and entrepreneur, will discuss his career and share business tips. Tuesday’s closing general session will feature 60 Minutes Correspondent Scott Pelley, who will share his expertise from a career covering some of the greatest historical events in recent history.
Musical highlights
Austin, Texas, is the “Live Music Capital of the World,” so it’s no surprise that NECA 2022 will feature some great musical options for attendees. On Saturday, October 15, the NECA opening reception (held at Austin City Limits’ The Moody Theater) will feature a night of music, refreshments, and entertainment to kick off the three-day long event. During Tuesday’s closing celebration, country vocalist Carly Pearce will grace the stage of Austin’s Palmer Events Center, followed by an Austin-area dance party. If you’re looking for something more low-key while breaking between educational sessions or manufacturer booths, stop by the Songbird Café on the show floor for cool tunes.
Time to relax
Attendees are likely to be busy throughout the trade show and conference, but NECA has some built-in options if you’re looking for a break or to catch up with other attendees. The NECA Sports Zone is the perfect place to catch up with friends, or you can stop by the Relaxation Station for a neck or foot massage. For dog-loving attendees, Pause for Paws is an opportunity to play with puppies and decompress.
Prizes and swag
And as always, there will be many chances to win free swag and prizes on the trade floor. Several exhibitors will offer “Play to Win” options, and this year’s biggest prize be a daily chance to win a signed football by Emmitt Smith. If you’re in the mood to bid on an awesome item or two, check out NECA’s silent auction – proceeds will benefit two local Austin schools as part of the “NECA Gives Back” program through the adopt-a-school program.
Electrical fun
In addition to the wide array of educational sessions, NECA also has plenty of fun options for electrical professionals to learn and connect. Attendees can attend trade show education workshops based around three themes: leadership, technology, and contractor solutions. If you’re a podcast fan, there will be opportunities each day to tune in to a live episode of the NECA Innovation Overload Podcast. And on Sunday, attendees can celebrate Apprentice Appreciation Day with a special program dedicated to apprentices working at all levels of electrical construction.
