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 business 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, NCEL has been "the catalyst in uniting the electrical industry in pursuit of common goals and objectives." Over the years NCEL has initiated many programs and services adjusting to the changing times of our fast-paced industry:
During wartime, NCEL 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, NCEL helped introduce 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 NCEL throughout the Upper Midwest.
"LOOK Magazine" presented NCEL 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 resource of the future increases, so does our responsibility as an industry. Not only must we supply the reliable power, innovative products and essential services, we must also create the most favorable image possible in demonstrating electricity's positive benefit to the public, government, business and industry. This is accomplished through the continued cooperation of all sectors of our electrical industry -- working together as members through the North Central Electrical League.
NCEL membership includes utilities -- investor owned, G & T cooperatives, electric distribution cooperatives; electrical manufacturers -- agents and direct representatives; electrical distributors; electrical contractors -- union contract and independent; low voltage communication firms; building inspectors; electrical engineering and architectural firms; allied electrical 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 NCEL membership. Recognizing the need for ongoing collaboration, NCEL manages and coordinates educational meetings, social and networking events, a large electrical product trade show and a host of other activities.
A key focus of NCEL is the ongoing professional development of our members and our electrical industry. NCEL provides:
robust activities for three industry specific Affiliate Groups under NCEL management
unique networking, social, charitable and peer development opportunities at every event
education and technical development for our members, exposing new and innovative technologies in the electrical marketplace
incentives for member companies to hire and train interns, thus promoting a solid industry career path for students via our internship program
funding of 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.
