With tighter schedules, increasing project complexity and changing performance expectations, electrical contractors are under increasing pressure to deliver consistently and in a controlled manner.
The future of electrical construction will depend not only on technology, but also on how effectively teams integrate it into each phase of a project. With tighter schedules, increasing project complexity and changing performance expectations, electrical contractors are under increasing pressure to deliver consistently and in a controlled manner.
Across the Chicago region, many are responding by combining digital tools with actionable execution strategies, expanding workforce capacity, and prioritizing continuous improvement in their operations.
Apply technology precisely
Digital platforms such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D modeling and project management software are now widely used in electrical construction. However, their value lies in their seamless integration into daily operations. Instead of just focusing on implementation, contractors work to ensure that these tools actively support coordination, minimize rework, and keep complex projects on track.
A current project at Elmhurst University illustrates this change in practice. There, Meade Electric used 3D modeling and total station survey equipment together to guide the placement of the riser. Rather than treating the BIM model as a static design reference, the team relied on it throughout construction to align design intent with on-site execution, helping teams reduce delays and avoid costly adjustments.
Other contractors extend this thinking to their internal systems. Gurtz Electric Co., for example, has focused on streamlining project planning by improving internal communication and reporting processes – changes that help maintain consistency and control as project complexity increases. This integration can be particularly valuable on complex projects such as data centers and airport terminals, where plans and priorities often change quickly.
In some cases, knowledge sharing has also helped teams get the most out of the technology. Taylor Electric described working informally with other signatory contractors to share tips on platforms such as Procore and Foundation. These discussions tend to focus less on technical specifications and more on how teams adapt tools to real-world conditions on the jobsite, reinforcing the idea that continuous learning and targeted application produce long-term value.
The conclusion from these examples is consistent: adopting technology is just the first step. How it is implemented, adapted and maintained in daily operations ultimately determines its impact on project results.
Readiness of the workforce that corresponds to the moment
Qualified workers remain one of the most important factors for the successful implementation of electrical construction projects. In response to changing needs – particularly in public sector, institutional and energy-related work – contractors are placing greater emphasis on workforce development strategies that go beyond core technical training.
In addition to standard electrical engineering classes, many training programs now include renewable energy systems preparation, safety certifications, and soft skills such as communication and cultural awareness. These areas of training become increasingly relevant on high-visibility projects where teams are expected to navigate short timelines, public scrutiny, or complex customer interactions.
Contractors also rely on the ability to quickly scale workloads. Whether you're responding to scope changes or supporting time-critical installations, access to a trained, ready workforce helps maintain momentum without sacrificing quality.
This focus on readiness comes at a time when work capacity is a growing concern. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of electricians is expected to grow 11 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, with more than 73,500 new jobs expected each year due to retirements and industry demand. This demand includes a sharp increase in projects requiring specialized knowledge, such as: Such as solar, data centers and information technology, reinforcing the need for targeted, ongoing training.
Bridge between innovation and implementation
The Chicago area examples reflect a broader shift in the way electrical contractors are responding to today's project needs. Technology and training are no longer viewed as separate efforts, but rather as interconnected components of a more responsive and capable industry.
By accurately using digital tools and preparing electricians for increasingly complex environments, contractors are aligning people, processes and systems with modern expectations. Equally important is the informal and targeted exchange of knowledge in order to improve working standards across the board.
As electrification, infrastructure improvements and sustainability initiatives continue to transform the industry, the ability to adapt will continue to be critical. Meeting these requirements not only requires the right tools and skills, but also the discipline to implement them in a targeted manner.
The future of electrical engineering will belong to those who view innovation and hard work as a shared responsibility, based on craftsmanship, strengthened by collaboration and focused on delivering excellence in the field.
To find a qualified electrical contractor in the Chicagoland area, use Powering Chicago's Find a Contractor tool.
Elbert Walters III is the executive director of Powering Chicago.
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