As we step into 2025, I believe our industry stands at a significant crossroads.
For decades I’ve worked in electrical contracting, watching people come and go, renewable technology evolving and how the trades respond.
Today the business has changed more than at any time I can remember. Smart systems, renewables and electric vehicles are pushing the boundaries of what we do. At the same time, we face a shortage of skilled labor due to poor leadership. If we stay complacent, we’ll be left behind. If we embrace these changes, we can lead the way. Energize Us EDU is my response to this challenge: an organisation dedicated to training, advocacy and real‑world solutions.
Wilson Matthew Betances: Our industry doesn’t have a labor problem; we have a mentorship problem. If you’re not willing to teach, and challenge the norm you are part of the problem.
Systems require Expertise
For years some of us shrugged at connected lighting and smart controls, calling them gadgets. Builders and property owners now expect energy management and security systems that talk to each other. They want homes and offices to sense occupancy, respond and integrate. As an electrician I can’t just run wire and hang fixtures. I need to understand how these new devices interact, how they fail and how to troubleshoot them. I’ve seen contractors lose clients because they couldn’t deliver these features. It’s time to take smart systems seriously.
Renewables are mainstream, so do your homework
Solar, wind and battery storage are not niche side projects anymore. Incentives and public demand have pushed them to record levels blog.sendwork.com. Large projects at the utility level with integrated batteries are stabilizing the grid and making renewable energy practical. This opens massive opportunities for electricians. I have seen too many contractors jump into renewables without learning interconnection rules, permitting or system design. That leads to failed inspections and bad customer client reviews. If we want to earn trust, we have to do the homework, you can't neglect the hard skills.
Electric vehicles need proper infrastructure
Electric vehicles are now part of everyday life. Installing chargers for homes, businesses and public spaces is becoming a core service. Starting in 2026, the NEC code even requires new homes to include dedicated circuits for EV chargers. Installing these systems isn’t a side job; it affects load calculations and service capacity. I’ve learned to treat EV installations as part of the main service electrical design. If you don’t know how a charger affects a panel or service drop, you risk fires and tripped breakers. We need to get certified and be ready for this demand.
Key insight
Smart systems are not just luxury toys; they are the tools of our trade. There is a real opportunity here.
The workforce shortage is our responsibility
There’s a serious lack of electricians, and it’s going to get worse. Too many of us blame younger workers for being disinterested, but we need to look at ourselves. Apprenticeships have been cut, training budgets slashed and mentorship replaced with hazing. I’ve hired apprentices and seen how proper training can change their lives. At Energize Us EDU, we’re building apprenticeship programs because our future depends on the current & next generation.
Code and safety aren’t suggestions
The National Electrical Code updates every three years. This cycle brings major changes: more arc‑fault and ground‑fault protection, mandatory smart‑home readiness, EV charging circuits in new homes and stricter grounding requirements. Commercial sites will have to conduct energy audits and use digital monitoring with improved fire‑resistant wiring. I’ve spent my career following the code and know why these rules exist: to protect lives and property.
Cutting corners is a short‑term gain that leads to long‑term pain. Its a shame we see these far to often still in our industry.
The bottom line: lead or follow
To me, 2025 is not just another year. It’s the moment when technology, regulation and workforce realities converge. I’m choosing to lead instead of complain. Through Energize Us EDU, I am committing to education, advocacy and accountability.
I invite you to join me.
Together we can shape an industry we are proud of and break the stigmas that keep us stuck. The future is here; let’s rise to meet it.
References
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SendWork Blog – “2025 Electrical Trends for Contractors: A Comprehensive Guide” (October 2024)
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EIA “Today in Energy” – “Solar, battery storage to lead new U.S. generating capacity additions in 2025” (December 2024)
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RST Electrical – “Electrical Code Updates for 2025: Essential Changes You Can’t Miss” (January 11 2025) – Electrical Contractor Magazine – “The Human Capital Gap: Filling the industry’s growing need for a skilled workforce” by Gordon Feller (December 11 2024)
