On November 30, 1936, regional electrical industry leaders met and formed the North Central Electrical League (originally named North Central Associated Electrical Industries). The founder's intent was to organize a non-profit trade association that could serve as a coordinator of local, regional and national industry programs, and provide a link between a united industry and its' customers in encouraging the safe and wise use of electricity. Since 1936, the League has been "the catalyst in uniting the electrical industry in pursuit of common goals and objectives." Over the years NCEL has initiated many programs adjusting to the changing times of our fast-paced industry.
During wartime, the League cooperated in the national defense and war effort by becoming the industry coordinator and clearing agent concerning government defense regulations, priorities, stationing, distribution of surplus used materials and equipment.
NCEL was the first organization to be licensed by the National Adequate Wiring Bureau to certify wiring installation in our region.
In cooperation with regional television stations, the League introduced television programming in the Twin Cities metro area.
Promotional committees were established for Electrical Appliances, Adequate Wiring, Rural Electric Equipment and Lighting. Area meetings promoting these products were conducted by the League throughout the Upper Midwest.
"LOOK Magazine" presented the League with their National Community Service Award for outstanding achievement in home wiring modernization.
With partial financing provided by our utility members, NCEL built the "ElectriCity" exhibit building on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. The exhibit received top national honors by the Western Fairs Association for the Best Consumer Education Exhibit.
Today, as recognition of electricity as the efficient and safe energy of the future increases, so does our responsibility as industry representatives. Not only must we supply the power, products and services, we must also create the most favorable image possible in demonstrating electricity's positive benefit to the public, government, and to business and industry. These goals are accomplished through the continued cooperation of all divisions of our industry -- working together as members through the North Central Electrical League.
League membership includes utilities -- investor owned, G & T's, power electric cooperative and municipals; manufacturers -- agents and direct representatives; distributors; contractors -- union contract and independent; low voltage communication firms; inspectors; engineering and architectural firms; allied trade associations; and individuals.
Through various boards of directors, Affiliate groups, committees and councils, the interchange of ideas, issues and industry knowledge continues within our membership. Recognizing the need for ongoing education and industry training, NCEL manages and coordinates educational meetings, certified training, electrical product trade shows and a host of other activities.
A key focus of NCEL is the ongoing professional development of our members and our industry. NCEL provides the following:
providing robust activities for three Affiliate Groups under NCEL management
provide unique networking and peer development opportunities at every event we offer
educating our members and exposing them to new and innovative technologies in the electrical marketplace
incentivizing member companies to hire interns, thus promoting a solid industry career path for students via our internship program
funding our members' children through our robust scholarship programs, and
online job classified service for members seeking new employees for jobs, and/or securing employment working in our industry.
Mission Statement: The object of the corporation shall be the overall advancement of the interests of North Central Electrical League Inc. members in the electrical industry in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. This organization shall not concern itself with the promotion of such things as codes, trade practices or proposed legislation except as related to acceptable standards of safety and public interest.
