2025 NECA San Diego
Education Program
Industry Leading Education Program
NECA San Diego offers unparalleled education courses and workshops, ensuring that our members remain the leading providers of electrical construction services in San Diego and Imperial Counties. In addition to our extensive and localized education offerings, members have access to a variety of in-demand conferences, trainings and resources offered exclusively through NECA National.
We are excited to share the 2025 education catalog, featuring a variety of courses designed to support you and your teams. By collaborating with an ever-growing network of highly qualified industry professionals, we deliver these programs both in-person and virtually. From lunch and learns to comprehensive classes and seminars, there’s something for everyone. Classes & Trainings are scheduled based on demand and determined by the NECA Education Committee.
ADDITIONAL EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS IN NECA LEARNING CENTER
The NECA San Diego online education classes offer convenient and flexible learning opportunities, providing industry professionals with valuable skills and certifications that can enhance their careers and keep them competitive in the ever-evolving electrical contracting field.
The NECA National Learning Center offers a wide variety of online, instructor-led led, and state continuing education unit-bearing courses, along with a wide range of on-demand online training classes on topics ranging from writing for business to Microsoft Office to project management.
2025 Courses
TUESDAY
APR 1, 2025
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Eric Glenn
LOCATION
Hybrid
(In-Person at NECA Office or via Zoom)
CMMC Level 1
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) enhances cybersecurity within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Level 1, the foundational tier, focuses on basic cyber hygiene practices for protecting Federal Contract Information (FCI). This level ensures organizations implement key security measures critical for safeguarding sensitive information and defending against unauthorized access and cyber threats.
Key Topics:
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Basic Cyber Hygiene: Implementing essential practices to maintain security.
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Access Control (AC): Managing who can access sensitive information.
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Identification and Authentication (IA): Ensuring proper user identity verification.
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Media Protection (MP): Securing physical and digital media.
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Physical Protection (PE): Protecting physical assets and environments.
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System and Communications Protection (SC): Securing networks and communications.
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System and Information Integrity (SI): Ensuring the integrity of systems and data.
TUESDAY
APR 15, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Lonnie Maxwell-Cook & Todd McClain
LOCATION
Virtual
Succession Planning Management and Ownership
This program will cover techniques and considerations for planning and executing a succession plan for management and owner(s), including common reasons for ownership transfer plans not working, and examine processes the company can implement for a successful business transition. We will also look at and address the various balance sheet, cash flow, and tax implications. This education class is intended only for NECA Contractors/Executive Members.
Key Topics:
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Understand the importance of time needed to effectively transition
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Tax implications to consider for sellers and buyers
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Process to determine the retirement cash flow for transitioning generation and estate planning considerations
TUESDAYS
(8-week class)
APR 15-JUN 3, 2025
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Bob Riel
LOCATION
4675 Viewridge Ave.
San Diego, CA 92123
Project Engineering Part 1
Project Engineers are technical leaders responsible for ensuring site work aligns with plans and contract terms. They supervise RFIs, Daily Reports, Submittals, and manage budgets and deadlines. With a blend of technical knowledge and organizational skills, they meet industry demands, including AC and DC theory. This introduction to Project Engineer Part I course helps those advancing to Project Management or seeking a deeper understanding of Project Engineering.
Key Learning Areas:
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Intro to Bidding/Estimating
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Scope Letter
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Intro to Bluebeam
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Blueprint Reading
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Specification
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Change Orders
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Project Management
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RFI
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Submittals
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Electrical Blueprint Reading
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Electrical/low Voltage Equipment
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Contract Review
Prerequisites: Basic computer skills, ability to open and save files in Excel, Word, and Bluebeam. Laptop with Windows 10 / Microsoft Office. Must be able to download BlueBeam Extreme before the course starts. (A link will be provided)
THURSDAY
APR 17, 2025
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Nichole Mayer
LOCATION
Virtual
Retirement Matters
Preparing for retirement can be complex. This interactive class will cover the risks facing current and future retirees while opening up conversations about all aspects of retirement plans. The discussion will address the importance of financial balance and the importance of saving now. We will navigate complex and important issues such as relationships, housing, lifestyles, health care, and finances— preparing them for all facets of their future lives. This class will touch on different savings vehicles that have different tax implications.
Key Learning Areas:
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Understand the importance of time needed to effectively transition
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Tax implications to consider for sellers and buyers
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The process to determine the retirement cash flow for transitioning generation and estate planning considerations
WEDNESDAY
MAY 7, 2025
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
April McCall
LOCATION
Virtual
Bluebeam Tips & Tricks
Take your Revu Markup activities to the next level with Tips & Tricks on customizing standard Revu markups, sharing several ways you can change and organize markups in your project documents, and did you know that you can leave a reply on a Markup and even design your own custom line styles? Learn how to create and edit markups of various shapes, add control points and leaders, reorder and group markups, snapshot regular and non-rectangular markups, label them, create custom line styles, and apply markups to various pages.
New features to include: Multiply Markups, Customize Captions with Markup List Data, and Expanded Markups for Guest Collaborators.
WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY
MAY 14 & 15, 2025
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Michael Johnston
LOCATION
Virtual
Significant Changes to the NEC 2020 Code
Stay up to date with the latest updates to the National Electrical Code (NEC), the world’s most recognized electrical code. This course provides a thorough review of the key changes in the 2020 NEC, including new articles and revised rules essential for contractors and installers. As technology advances, the NEC evolves to ensure compliance with modern electrical installations in both new and renovated buildings.
This interactive program equips electrical contractors and inspectors with the knowledge to meet the latest requirements, ensuring ongoing success in installations and compliance.
WEDNESDAY
MAY 28, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Sumana Rao
LOCATION
Virtual
Understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Its Place In Your Business
As the construction industry embraces the digital revolution, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing how electrical contractors plan, execute, and optimize their work. From enhancing operational efficiency and improving job site safety to driving innovation in design and project management, AI offers powerful tools to meet the evolving demands of the electrical construction sector. This session will explore the transformative impact of AI, with a focus on practical applications that empower contractors to achieve greater accuracy, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
Key Takeaways:
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Streamlining Operations: Learn how AI enhances efficiency across construction workflows, from planning and design to execution and maintenance.
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Improving Safety: Explore AI-driven safety solutions that mitigate risks and protect workers on job sites.
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Driving Innovation: Discover how advancements in AI are shaping the future of construction, enabling smarter decision-making and unlocking new opportunities.
WEDNESDAY
JUN 11, 2025
7:30 AM - 9:30 AM
INSTRUCTOR
NECA Staff-Led Conversation
LOCATION
4675 Viewridge Ave.
San Diego, CA 92123
Education Summit
NECA San Diego holds this annual meeting to gather valuable feedback from members regarding the chapter's educational programs. During this meeting, we provide updates on class surveys, instructor evaluations, and attendance data. Our goal is to continuously improve our educational offerings, and we want to hear directly from you—whether you are an attendee or a representative of a contractor company.
This is your opportunity to suggest new classes, hear what is planned for the remainder of the year, and ensure that your voice is heard in shaping the future of our education program.
TUESDAY
JUN 17, 2025
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
INSTRUCTOR
Stephane McShane
LOCATION
Virtual
Managing the Lifeblood of Contracting - Cash Flow
Cash flow is one of the most important issues facing contractors today. As the market continues to stay strong, companies are faced with starting new projects, hiring staff, and investing in assets to support the business. More companies go bankrupt due to cash flow issues than due to profitability. Many things can and should be done to improve cash management practices. We will explore a range of tools and techniques, from simple to complex, that allow firms to manage and control cash flow.
Examples include contractual negotiation strategies, pricing and bidding practices, development of cost and resource-loaded schedules that tie to billing activities in the schedule of values, use of 12- week cash flow forecasts, project closeout procedures, and managing the billings and collection cycle. An interactive cash flow simulation provides hands-on experience that enhances the learning outcomes.
Following this course, participants will be able to:
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Discuss the importance of cash management practices
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Describe how to increase profits with billings and collections
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Identify tools and techniques that optimize cash flow
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Discuss how to maximize cash flow with process standardization
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Describe how to create transparency and accountability with measurement
WEDNESDAY
JUN 25, 2025
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Pam Scholefield
LOCATION
Virtual
Best Practices for Contract Administration and Documentation – The Devil Is In The Details
This course emphasizes the importance of properly organized and detailed paperwork, often overlooked in construction projects. While many view documentation as burdensome, "the devil is in the details." By focusing on both contract administration and proper documentation, participants will gain critical insights into key contract procedures and best practices for managing paperwork. This knowledge is essential for navigating the complexities of contract management and project documentation, ensuring successful project execution and compliance.
Following this course, participants will be able to:
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Understand contract terms and create field-useable documents for team compliance
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Handle notices for changes, payment issues, and other provisions
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Effectively communicate to ensure compliance and address chain of command issues
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Manage schedule changes, punch lists, substantial completion, and default provisions
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Organize project files, protecting interests with release types, and documenting RFIs / Submittals and more!
MONDAY - WEDNESDAY
JUL 14-16, 2025
7:30 AM - 3:30 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Matthew Firestone
LOCATION
4675 Viewridge Ave.
San Diego, CA 92123
Basic Estimating of Electrical Construction
Small mistakes in an estimate can have a huge impact on your bid's bottom line and this course provides the tools needed to be both comprehensive and competitive. This course will discuss the process for assembling an estimate including: developing material lists, applying labor unit data, material takeoff, and application of direct job costs, overhead, and profit.
Following this class, participants will be able to:
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List types of mistakes when estimating electrical construction projects and how to avoid them
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Describe the parts of an estimate
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Explain the importance of establishing the true cost of a project
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Develop an estimate to provide job management information
WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY
JUL 23 & 24, 2025
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
April McCall
LOCATION
Virtual
Bluebeam Takeoffs and Estimations
Master Bluebeam Takeoffs and Estimations with this comprehensive course to boost your workflow efficiency and accuracy. Learn to use the Quantity Takeoff Profile in Revu, calibrate documents for precise measurements, and utilize advanced measurement tools. Discover how to track data in the Markups List, create custom columns for material and labor costs, and export data for analysis. Use visual search for counting and organize Summary Reports effectively. Apply industry-specific techniques to optimize your workflows and enhance project management.
MONDAY & TUESDAY
AUG 11 & 12, 2025
7:30 AM - 3:30 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Matthew Firestone
LOCATION
4675 Viewridge Ave.
San Diego, CA 92123
Advanced Estimating
Building upon the principles taught in NECA's Basic Estimating course, this course focuses on the strategy and business decisions made during the estimating and bidding processes. The course will assist estimators and managers in thinking strategically about how they find, evaluate, and bid on electrical construction projects.
Following this course, participants will be able to:
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Explain the estimator’s role and responsibilities throughout the bidding process
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Define estimating terminology
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Evaluate bidding opportunities for the most desirable projects
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Analyze factors that have effects on cost and labor productivity
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Evaluate the potential risk factors of a project
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Discuss the risks and responsibilities identified in the project specifications, labor agreements, scope letters, and standard contracts
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Describe the difference between overhead and profit and how they are applied to estimates.
WEDNESDAY
AUG 20, 2025
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Paul Stout
LOCATION
Virtual
Change Orders & Claims
This session leads participants through conventional change order and claims processes. Students will be encouraged to think through ways to manage their own change order systems better while considering common sense dispute resolution strategies. The workshop will focus on three important principles:
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Identifying, processing, and getting paid for change orders
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Avoiding disputes before they start
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Resolving disputes before they escalate
TUESDAY
AUG 26, 2025
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
INSTRUCTOR
Stephane McShane
LOCATION
Virtual
Enabling Success - Creating Alignment Between Field and Office
For construction firms to thrive, synergy, teamwork, and trust must exist between the office and the field. The proper deployment of defined processes and tools will facilitate this critical alignment. This collaboration must begin before mobilization and continue through project closeout. During this session, we will discuss the workflow that must exist in order to mitigate risk and maximize productivity. During this session, we will discuss why the processes of preconstruction planning, short interval planning, production tracking, daily project reports, exit strategy, and lessons learned are critical to the organization. We will also discuss what the benefits are for each member of the team, and how these processes can be properly implemented.
Following this course, participants will be able to:
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Describe the information needed to effectively navigate preconstruction planning
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Learn the critical communication required in short-interval planning
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Discuss the importance of accurate production tracking
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Identify the needed data transfer of a daily project report
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Outline the data collection required of the project team during closeout and lessons learned
WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY
SEP 3 & 4, 2025
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Michael Johnston
LOCATION
Virtual
NFPA 70E Essentials - Electrical Safety in the Workplace
This course covers electrical safety in the workplace as outlined in the 2024 NFPA 70E Standard. It emphasizes the shared responsibility of employers and employees for compliance, focusing on recent revisions that prioritize hazard elimination. Topics include the hierarchy of risk controls, risk assessments, human performance factors, and determining when energized work is justified. The course also covers lockout/tagout procedures, Arc Flash PPE selection, and required training and documentation. Attendees will gain essential knowledge and confidence in applying NFPA 70E standards to ensure workplace safety.
THURSDAY
SEP 25, 2025
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Paul Stout
LOCATION
Virtual
Construction Correspondence and Effective Business Writing
This workshop will guide participants through the basic pieces of correspondence used in the construction industry. It approaches everything from the basic rules of grammar to industry-specific documentation requirements. Participants will engage in improving their comprehension and writing through fun, fast-paced exercises designed to demonstrate both the why and how for each piece of correspondence being considered.
Specific correspondence considered includes:
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Notice of Delay and Delay Impact
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Notice of Differing Site Conditions or Other Changes
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Notice of Unresolved Issues - Potential Claim
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Notice of Substantial Completion
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Requests for Information - RFIs
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Meetings – reports and advanced
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communication of meeting agenda
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Responses to incoming communication
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Work Authorizations / Work Directives
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Style, form, format, and industry-specific requirements will be discussed all along the way
THURSDAY
OCT 30, 2025
7:30 AM - 3:30 PM
INSTRUCTOR
Michael Johnston
LOCATION
4675 Viewridge Ave.
San Diego, CA 92123
2023 NEC Changes that Impact Electrical Contractors
The National Electrical Code is the most widely recognized electrical code in the world. Every three years it is updated to reflect the newest installation practices used by the electrical industry.
This course provides an authoritative, thorough review of the most significant changes in the 2023 NEC, including new articles and revisions that contractors and installers alike must understand and apply in their daily operations. Electrical installations, both in new construction and renovations are subject to compliance with NEC requirements. As jurisdictions adopt and enforce each new edition of the NEC, it is very important that electrical contractors, electrical workers, and electrical inspectors are in tune with the latest minimum requirements.
This high-energy, interactive program provides electrical contractors and inspectors with information that helps them with continued success in installation and compliance.
Questions?
For all inquiries or questions related to education, contact the Education/Marketing Specialist, Ofelia Sanchez at osanchez@necasandiego.org.