Frequently Asked Questions

Southern Tier NECA is a local chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association representing electrical contracting firms in Binghamton, Ithaca, and Elmira, NY. We serve as the collective voice for signatory contractors, focusing on enhancing the industry through labor relations, education, safety standards, and governmental advocacy.

Membership benefits include expert labor relations and contract negotiations, access to the NECA Manual of Labor Units for accurate estimating, and representation in civic affairs. Members also receive specialized management education, safety training compliant with OSHA standards, and a connection to a national network of over 70,000 electrical contracting firms.

Yes, Southern Tier NECA partners with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) to administer Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees (JATC). These programs provide a rigorous four-to-five-year curriculum that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to develop highly skilled, licensed electricians for the Southern Tier region.

Southern Tier NECA coordinates the union agreement negotiation process to promote profitable conditions for members while meeting the needs of the skilled workforce. We represent contractors on grievance committees, pension and health benefit funds, and Labor Management Cooperation Committees (LMCC) to maintain stability and fair standards in the electrical field.

We provide members with the NECA Manual of Labor Units, the industry standard for accurately estimating labor costs. Additionally, we offer technical services that act as a liaison with OSHA, ensuring contractors stay informed on the latest National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) and National Electrical Code (NEC) updates to maintain safe worksites.

Electrical contracting firms interested in joining must contact Chapter Manager Meredith Kumpon at (607) 953-4037 to receive a membership application. Membership is available to firms engaged in erecting, installing, or maintaining electrical wiring and equipment, primarily those that hire union (IBEW) electricians.

The Southern Tier NECA chapter office is located at 200 Plaza Drive, Suite B, Vestal, NY 13850. We are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Our central location allows us to effectively serve contractors across Broome, Chemung, Tompkins, and surrounding New York counties.

Yes, Southern Tier NECA provides active representation on code committees. We recommend essential changes to licensing and inspection regulations at the local and state levels to ensure the electrical industry remains safe, competitive, and aligned with the latest technological advancements in power and energy.

Hiring a NECA contractor ensures that your project is handled by a firm committed to the highest industry standards. NECA members utilize a highly trained, drug-free workforce that has completed comprehensive apprenticeship programs, resulting in superior craftsmanship, reduced safety risks, and more reliable project timelines for commercial and industrial developments.

NECA and the IBEW share a Labor-Management Partnership aimed at providing the best value in the electrical construction industry. While NECA represents the business interests of electrical contractors, the IBEW represents the workers. Together, through the Quality Connection, they ensure a steady supply of skilled labor and high-quality electrical installations.