Demand for data centers in the U.S. is expected to more than double over the next few years as AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure continue to expand. To keep its membership informed, St. Louis Chapter NECA hosted an inside look at mega projects and market recovery in our region. Research and insights were shared by  Josh Bone from ELECTRI International and Dr. Anthony Perrenoud from Boise State University. It was also a great learning experience for NECA’s Mizzou Student Chapter. They got a firsthand look at what their future in the industry could look like as they begin work on the ELECTRI International’s Electrical Contracting Innovation Challenge.

NECA contractor Primary Systems recently pulled the curtain back to reveal how cross functional collaboration uniting healthcare with technology integration services works best. Its Clinical Application Specialists (CAS) team members, all Registered Nurses, tackled a complex workflow issue that didn’t fit neatly into a system design. The clinical insight is invaluable and turns “that’s just how the system works” into “this is how it should work for caregivers.” Instead of asking the customer to adjust their workflow to match the system, Primary Systems adjusts the system to match clinical reality. “Because when the CAS team of Registered Nurses design and test workflows, the focus stays where it belongs, on the bedside.”

In the DeSoto School District, IBEW Local 1-signatory contractor Brooks Electric stepped up to the plate to ensure Athena Elementary could have its annual Easter egg hunt.  A food truck that was to serve families at the event had a malfunctioning power supply. Dustin Brooks, who launched his company last year, volunteered to diagnose and make repairs.  The Desoto District was grateful, “Huge thank you to Brooks Electric for stepping up and volunteering to help us at Athena Elementary in a pinch today! Because of their quick response, everything was back up and running just in time for our Easter egg hunt.”