EI_Sept15

Back to School Issuen How NEMA members encourage STEM and

Workforce Development

n Student spotlight on medical imaging

n Importance of proper training for electricians

n How to build a high-performance building, a utility-scale microgrid, and more

Published by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association | www.NEMA.org | September 2015 | Vol. 20 No. 9

the magazine of the electroindustry

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FEATURES

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Lighting the Way to STEM Careers ........................................................................................................10

S&C Electric Company & STEM: Changing Life Trajectories ......................................................................12

12 for Life® Encourages Students to Stay in School by Providing Jobs, Skills ............................................14

Phoenix Contact Builds High-Tech Manufacturing Workforce with Mechatronics Apprentice Program ......16

Student Spotlight on Medical Imaging .................................................................................................18

Vids 4 Grids Brings Electroindustry Careers to Life .................................................................................19

Learn How to Increase Building Performance .......................................................................................19

Green Leases Drive Energy Efficiency and Customer Engagement ...........................................................20

How to Build a Utility-Scale Microgrid ..................................................................................................22

Apprenticeship: Leading the Recovery .................................................................................................24

Inspiring Tomorrow’s Manufacturer TodayManufacturing Day offers members an opportunity to showcase modern manufacturing technology and careers. It also addresses common misperceptions about manufacturing by giving manufacturers an opportunity to open their doors and show, in a coordinated effort, what manufacturing is — and what it isn’t.

For resources and ideas, including event planning, sample documents, and surveys for students and educators, visit www.mfgday.com/playbook/MFGDay-2015-Community-Planning-Guide.pdf

Available on the App Store

electroindustryPublisher / Editor in Chief | Pat Walsh

Contributing Editors | Ann Brandstadter, Catharine Garber, William E. Green III

Economic Spotlight | Tim Gill

Codes & Standardization Trends | Vince Baclawski Government Relations Update | Kyle Pitsor

Art Director | Jennifer TillmannNational Advertising Representative | Bill Mambert

CONTENTS

electroindustry (ISSN 1066-2464) is published monthly by NEMA, the Association of Electrical Equipment and Medical Imaging Manufacturers, 1300 N. 17th Street, Suite 900, Rosslyn, VA 22209; 703.841.3200. FAX: 703.841.5900. Periodicals postage paid at Rosslyn, VA, and York, PA, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NEMA, 1300 N. 17th Street, Suite 900, Rosslyn, VA 22209. The opinions or views expressed in electroindustry do not necessarily reflect the positions of NEMA or any of its subdivisions.

Subscribe to ei, the magazine of the electroindustry, at www.nema.org/subscribe2eiContact us at [email protected]

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NOTES

DEPARTMENTSGovernment Relations Update ...............................................................................................................6

Repealing Medical Device Tax Gains Momentum ................................................................................................................................6

Energy-Efficiency Technologies and Programs Play Role in Clean Power Plan Rule ...........................................................................6

Senator Dan Coats Discusses Repeal of Medical Device Tax with NEMA Board ..................................................................................7

Congress Acts on Energy Legislation before Recess .............................................................................................................................8

Electroindustry News ..........................................................................................................................26

Revathi Advaithi Joins NEMA Board of Governors .............................................................................................................................26

NEMA Board of Governors Approves New Members .........................................................................................................................26

ESFI Aims to Reduce Overhead Power Line Fatalities with Train-the-Trainer Program.....................................................................27

NEMA Members, Staff Recognized by ANSI, IEC Awards ...................................................................................................................28

NEMA’s Ryan Franks Honored with ANSI 2015 Next Generation Award ...........................................................................................28

Promoting Fire Safety among College Students ................................................................................................................................29

Code Actions/Standardization Trends ...................................................................................................30

C&S Holds 500th Meeting—Still Going Strong .................................................................................................................................30

Updating West Coast Code Adoption Status ......................................................................................................................................32

Sustaining NEMA’s Influence in Standards and Conformity Assessment ..........................................................................................33

Recently Published Standards ............................................................................................................................................................33

International Roundup .......................................................................................................................34

Electroindustry Benefits of the Trans-Pacific Partnership ..................................................................................................................34

Economic Spotlight .............................................................................................................................35

Current Business Conditions Index Retreats in August Following July Surge; Future Conditions Index Holds Steady .....................35

NEMA Officers .......................................................................................................................................................................................3

Comments from the President ..............................................................................................................................................................3

Views .....................................................................................................................................................................................................4

Listen to the Expert .............................................................................................................................................................................36

I Am NEMA ..........................................................................................................................................................................................36

Newsmakers

Looking for Industry ExpertsNEMA’s Lighting Systems Division, as secretariat of ANSI’s Accredited Standards Committee (ASC) C78 for Electric Lamps, is looking for industry experts in the User and General Interest categories to participate in standards development activities. ASC C78 includes standards and specifications for electric lamps of all types, including the electrical values necessary for limitations in operation, regulation, and starting of the lamps, as well as standards and specifications for starters for fluorescent lamps. For more information, contact NEMA Senior Lighting Program Manager Karen Willis ([email protected]). Indicate interest category and area of expertise.

27Tom Gross (left) was recognized for his years of service on the NEMA Board of Governors by Don Hendler, board chairman.

26Revathi Advaithi, CEO of Eaton’s Electrical Sector, joins NEMA Board of Governors.

4MITA Board of Directors Chairman Nelson RCP Mendes offers a lesson on guiding medical imaging through economic and legislative challenges.

FROM THE PRESIDENTOfficersPaideia is a Greek term that refers to the education of citizenry, in both practical and intellectually based schooling. While the paideia philosophy exists to a greater or lesser degree in most parts of the U.S. educational system, two basic principles stand out as being important for us as the electrical manufacturers association and as an industry.

First, learning is never completed; it is a lifelong process. Mahatma Gandhi encouraged us to “Learn as if you were to live forever.” Second, in most important undertakings, multiple sources of knowledge must be brought to bear. As American children start back to school this fall, we should reflect on these two principles—to determine not only how they relate to society’s collective efforts to educate and prepare the next generation of citizens and workers, but also how these principles apply to current teams within our own organizations.

As leaders in our companies, industry, and communities, we show our commitment to continuous learning best through personal example. And we should actively encourage our colleagues to do likewise. Becoming more expert in contemporary skills strengthens our value today; learning new skills positions us collectively for tomorrow.

Leaders can further underwrite growth opportunities through internal and external initiatives. One effective way is to pair individuals or small groups of more experienced employees with their newer (and frequently younger) coworkers in purposeful projects or quality-improvement work. While the flow of experiential knowledge from seniors to juniors in such a setting is obvious, increasingly the reverse flow is tremendously valuable.

Within NEMA, we foster crosscutting learning opportunities in a number of ways. Our strategic initiatives program is one example of a platform that allows for community learning. Another is intra- and inter-divisional work that touches multiple product sections, as do the handful of NEMA councils. While these opportunities provide NEMA members with a chance to work on major market or policy issues, they also serve as a way to teach and learn from one another.

This month’s issue of ei highlights just a few of the many ways NEMA members and others are applying the concept of paideia. We hope the stories are enjoyable—and useful—in equal measure. ei

Kevin J. Cosgriff President and CEO

Registration is now openNEMA’s 89th Annual Membership Meeting November 5–6, Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C. For more information, visit www.nema.org/Annual-Meeting

NEMA electroindustry • September 2015 3

ChairmanDon Hendler President & CEO Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.

First Vice ChairwomanMaryrose Sylvester President & CEO GE Lighting

Second Vice ChairmanMichael Pessina President Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.

TreasurerDavid G. Nord Chairman, President, & CEO Hubbell Incorporated

Immediate Past ChairmanJohn Selldorff President & CEO Legrand North America

President & CEOKevin J. Cosgriff

SecretaryClark R. Silcox

Medical imaging has revolutionized the way healthcare providers care for their patients. Since the invention of the x-ray more than 100 years ago, medical

imaging has been in a constant state of advancement and innovation. Today’s ever-evolving technologies are being influenced by the communication revolution and the informatics industry in ways that the inventors of the x-ray never would have imagined.

The Medical Imaging and Technology Alliance (MITA) is leading its members through complicated economic and legislative challenges to encourage greater access to lifesaving technologies so that all patients can benefit from an early and accurate diagnosis.

But to know where you’re going, you have to have a vision and know how to get there. To that end, MITA’s Board of Directors has prioritized several strategic initiatives with the objective of removing technical and market barriers to medical imaging. A few of those initiatives:

• MedicalDeviceTaxMITA is working with a bipartisan coalition of members of Congress on Capitol Hill to repeal the costly medical device tax that has stifled innovation and harmed the industry’s ability to expand. MITA’s advocacy is making a difference, as demonstrated by the recent bipartisan vote in the House to repeal the tax. While we’re not there yet, this is a top priority for MITA’s members, and we are mobilizing all necessary resources to maximize our chances of success this year.

and imaging drug developers, such as our PET Group, which is composed of PET radiopharmaceutical innovators, developers, and distributors.

Traditional medical imaging is typically diagnostic, but there are many more applications, such as intra-operative imaging, therapeutic imaging, and information technology related to imaging. MITA recognizes that its core strength lies in the diversity of its membership.

Health systems around the world grow more sophisticated and comprehensive every day, which translates into exciting growth opportunities for all of our companies. At the same time, these new, dynamic markets also present challenges. MITA works in tandem with government and industry partners to ensure that member companies of all sizes maximize their global growth.

Realizing PotentialFinally, MITA’s most treasured asset is its people. The scientific and technical expertise of the people who run the conference calls and meetings, send the emails, write the letters, and meet with government officials are key to its success. Our staff, coupled with the benefits and synergies associated with parent NEMA, are key reasons why MITA membership is invaluable.

MITA members make a significant contribution to the development of all of the alliance’s initiatives. Through continued participation in sections and committees, they drive the policy that shapes MITA’s positions and, ultimately, its success. We value the participation of all members and always seek more. It is through continued participation that we will grow and recognize our full potential as an organization. ei

Ű MITA Guides Medical Imaging through Economic and Legislative ChallengesNelson RCP Mendes, President & CEO, Ziehm Imaging, Inc. Chairman, MITA Board of Directors

• ReimbursementandCoverageTo improve access to medical imaging procedures, MITA works with public (Medicare and Medicaid) and private payers to ensure adequate reimbursement for medical imaging services. As new procedures or screening services are developed, MITA works closely with policymakers to gain coverage for these services by emphasizing the value of medical imaging in leading to an early and accurate diagnosis for patients.

• ServiceMITA is working hard to ensure that all service providers, device modifiers, and refurbishers provide the same level of quality and safety and are subject to the same level of regulatory requirements and oversight as the manufacturer. We know that properly serviced equipment is safer for patients and hospital staff.

• StandardsBuilding on the successful Smart Dose initiative, a tool to optimize and manage radiation dose delivery, MITA is effectively using standards development to open more markets, making MITA the recognized global leader in standards development. MITA’s standards development principles include enhancing patient safety, increasing access to the highest quality of care, promoting adoption of the latest technologies and processes, and supporting regulatory efficiency.

embRacing innovationFrom my perspective as chairman of the MITA Board of Directors, it is imperative that MITA continues to represent all segments of the medical imaging market, including new innovative segments, which are most often developed by smaller companies;

4 NEMA electroindustry • September 2015

Views

For our nation to thrive, our children must develop the problem-solving and critical thinking skills that will prepare them for the jobs of the future. That’s why

it’s so important to provide all students with a quality education in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (the STEM fields).

Students can understand and improve the systems that power, develop, and advance our society and our economy only if they have a strong foundation in these critical, interconnected fields.

This focus on STEM learning is not new. We still struggle, however, to ensure that all students have access to the kinds of STEM learning opportunities that will prepare them for careers in the technology-rich environments of today and tomorrow. While there is much work to do to ensure that all students have access to a strong STEM foundation during the school day, we must also focus on providing equal access to after-school STEM learning opportunities.

moving beyond the classRoomIncreasingly, the most effective and enriching STEM opportunities are happening outside the classroom. STEM Learning Is Everywhere (2014) and Identifying and Supporting Productive STEM Programs in Out-of-school Settings (2015), two recent reports from the National Research Council, show that STEM learning occurs across a range of settings.

They observe that, “the ways in which young people learn about STEM [have] fundamentally changed in the past decade. More so than ever, young people now have opportunities to learn STEM

the country will need to ensure that all students have equal access to these after-school opportunities.

Businesses that open their doors to students who want hands-on learning experiences must ensure that students of diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds are served. Otherwise, we risk preparing just a small fraction of our population to take advantage of the opportunities that will be presented in years to come, while leaving far too many of our citizens behind.

Less than 20 percent of a student’s waking hours are spent in the classroom, so we must take advantage of out-of-school learning opportunities. Out-of-school programs (before and after school and during the summer) have long influenced students’ personal development and supported their social and emotional growth. Today, the after-school field is enthusiastically embracing STEM as an integral part of its educational offerings.

Out-of-school programs provide meaningful STEM learning experiences to diverse groups of youth that excite and sustain interest, build skills, and help them connect STEM to their lives and communities.

STEM learning ecosystems present a great opportunity to the business community to help to spark interest, engagement, and learning in the STEM fields and to cultivate the capable and informed citizens that our nation needs. ei

Ű Businesses Play Important Role in Providing Real-World Educational Opportunities Ellen Lettvin, PhD, Noyce Senior Fellow for Informal STEM, Office of Innovation and Improvement, U.S. Department of Education

in a wide variety of settings, including clubs, summer programs, museums, parks, and online activities.”1

This development provides an opportunity and a challenge. The focus on providing real-world, hands-on STEM experiences means that businesses can now play an important role in providing educational opportunities and various forms of support for today’s students.

In fact, businesses are a critical part of new “STEM Learning Ecosystems,” a learner-centric model in which six sectors within a community coordinate efforts to cultivate and support STEM learning. These sectors include the family; formal (school-day) education; out-of-school programs; institutes of higher education; STEM-rich institutions, such as zoos, museums, libraries and science centers; and importantly, the business community.

A recent report by Traphagen and Traill2 profiles 15 communities nationwide that have successfully cultivated STEM Learning Ecosystems. As we look for ways to build a nation of diverse problem solvers and critical thinkers to meet existing and anticipated workforce needs, these broad, multisector, community-based approaches—in which the business community plays a critical role—could provide an invaluable strategy.

While this development is exciting, we know that students from different backgrounds receive very different levels of out-of-school learning opportunities. As STEM learning occurs outside the classroom, businesses and their partners in STEM learning ecosystems around

1 Identifying and Supporting Productive STEM Programs in Out-of-School Settings, National Research Council, June 2015.

2 Traphagen, K. and S. Traill, How Cross-Sector Collaborations are Advancing STEM Learning, Working Paper, 2014, hub.mspnet.org/index.cfm/27184.


Views

http://hub.mspnet.org/index.cfm/27184

http://hub.mspnet.org/index.cfm/27184

MITA recently achieved an important victory in its fight to repeal the medical device tax. The House of Representatives passed legislation repealing the tax, 280-140, in June. The legislation, introduced by representatives Erik Paulsen (R-MN) and Ron Kind (D-WI), won support of 46 Democrats, a significant increase over the 37 who voted in favor of repeal in 2012.

In the days leading up to the vote, several Democrats, including representatives Suzan DelBene (WA), Kyrsten Sinema (AZ), Scott Peters (CA), and Ann Kuster (NH), lobbied members of their caucus to vote yes. To view the roll call vote, go to clerk.house.gov/evs/2015/roll375.xml.

Working with AdvaMed and the Medical Device Manufacturers Association, MITA now focuses our efforts on the U.S. Senate, where the path to repeal is more complex. Many Senate Democrats support repeal but would like the legislation to cover the full cost, estimated to be $24.4 billion over ten years. Senate Republicans pushing the

On August 3, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its long-awaited Clean Power Plan rule, also known as 111(d). Comments submitted by NEMA in 2014 veered from the political battle that formed around the rule, focusing instead on the important role energy-efficiency technologies and programs can play in helping states comply with it.

While the rule and supporting documents consist of more than 3,000 pages, a couple of items do fall in line with our comments.

legislation have not yet offered ways to replace the potential lost revenue.

The gulf between the two sides will make it difficult to pass a stand-alone bill in the Senate without revenue offsets. MITA is working closely with Congressional leaders to attach the House-passed bill to a larger, must-pass legislative package by the end of the year.

One option would involve attaching medical device tax–repeal language to a tax-extender bill that Congress routinely passes at the end of the year. A highway-funding reauthorization bill presents another opportunity; however, Republican leaders in the House are at odds with their Republican counterparts in the Senate over different elements of that package. The possibility also exists that Congress could merge the tax extender and highway reauthorization packages at the end of the year.

President Obama has threatened to veto a year-long continuing resolution

First, the rule allows states to use rate-based and third-party energy-efficiency projects and programs for compliance. It was unclear in the proposed rule whether third-party efficiency projects would be allowed, and it was uncertain if rate-based efficiency programs would survive. The final rule makes it clear that all kinds of energy efficiency may be used for compliance.

Second, the rule included a proposed Clean Energy Incentive Program that would reward states that take action in 2020 and 2021 to install solar, wind, and energy-efficiency measures in those

with current spending caps in place, setting the stage for budget negotiations to raise spending caps for defense and non-defense spending. Medical device tax–repeal legislation would be a likely candidate to be included in such a package as a negotiating chip. Moreover, either the highway reauthorization or tax-extender bill, along with legislation to raise the debt ceiling, could also be added to a large catch-all package.

Inserting language to repeal the medical device tax into a broader package that is palatable to the president and members of both parties greatly increases the odds that repeal of the tax will be signed into law this year. MITA will continue to work with Republicans and Democrats to explore all possible scenarios to maximize the likelihood of repealing the device tax before the end of the year. ei

AndyDhokai,DirectorofFederalRelations|

[email protected]

years. This program is just a proposal; EPA will take comments on the idea later this year. NEMA will work within its EPA Working Group to develop those comments.

NEMA will continue working on this issue to ensure that members are able to leverage market opportunities that might result from this rule. If you would like to learn more about this issue or want to be involved in the working group, contact NEMA staff. ei

JosephEaves,Director,GovernmentRelations| [email protected]

Ű Repealing Medical Device Tax Gains Momentum

Ű Energy-Efficiency Technologies and Programs Play Role in Clean Power Plan Rule


Government Relations Update

http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2015/roll375.xml

Senator Dan Coats (R-IN) met with the NEMA Board of Governors at its July 15 dinner and reception on Capitol Hill. With nearly 50 NEMA– and MITA–member company facilities operating in Indiana, the state represents an important manufacturing and innovation hub for the electrical equipment and medical imaging industries. Senator Coats spoke individually with representatives from several of those companies.

During his remarks, the senator addressed his strong support for repeal of the medical device excise tax and its threat to innovation and jobs. He is one of the Senate champions pushing for repeal in that body. As a member of the Senate Finance Committee, the senator also discussed the need to modernize our tax code as well as the drag the current code has on a company’s ability to compete internationally. He also shared observations on how Washington, and particularly the Senate, has changed during his two-plus decade career in public service. ei

KylePitsor,NEMAVicePresidentofGovernmentRelations|

[email protected]

Ű Senator Dan Coats Discusses Repeal of Medical Device Tax with NEMA Board

NEMA President and CEO Kevin J. Cosgriff, Senator Coats, and Chairman of the NEMA Board of Governors Don Hendler discuss manufacturing and innovation during the Board of Governors July meeting. Photos by Pat Walsh

Mark J. Gliebe, Regal Beloit Corporation

Theodore D. Crandall, Rockwell Automation

Vernon J. Nagel, Acuity Brands, Inc.

Laurent Vernerey, Schneider Electric


In the run up to August recess, Congress acted on several energy items of interest to NEMA, including two energy reform packages, Portman-Shaheen, and energy tax incentives.

In terms of overall depth and breadth, the most significant item Congress moved on was the Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015, which was passed out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee by a vote of 18–4. Passage out of committee now allows the Senate to consider the bill on the Senate floor later this year.

The legislation incorporates portions of S 720, the Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act of 2015, sponsored by senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). Long-supported by NEMA, these provisions advance energy efficiency in building codes, schools, and federal and industrial facilities. Included in the provisions are pilot programs for the replacement of inefficient transformers and the installation of energy-efficient electric motors, controls, and drives that precisely manage the energy required for industrial and commercial applications.

Other NEMA-supported portions of the bill would:

• improve transmission siting and permitting processes;

• establish an energy storage research and development program;

• increase grid reliability and resilience;

• increase use of energy-savings performance contracts to finance retrofits in federal facilities;

• authorize pilot programs to advance energy- and water-efficiency programs for utilities, cities, and water districts;

• establish an information clearinghouse to assist schools in retrofitting their buildings;

• authorize grants for job training programs leading toward industry-recognized credentials;

• enable small- and medium-size enterprises to access computing facilities at the U.S. Department of Energy national labs;

• reform and improve federal policies on critical minerals; and

• improve existing federally oriented manufacturing programs.

During the committee’s action on the Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015, it took a separate vote on S 720 as a stand-alone bill; it passed 20-2. This allows the bill to move separately from the larger Senate energy package.

In the House, the Energy & Commerce Committee took action on its energy-reform package. The Energy and Power Subcommittee unanimously passed a similar energy bill that addresses energy infrastructure, workforce needs, energy efficiency, and regulatory improvements. The committee held seven legislative hearings and received testimony from private sector organizations and experts, including NEMA. One of the NEMA-backed provisions in the legislation would establish a strategic reserve of large power transformers to improve reliability of the grid during severe weather, physical damage, and cyber events.

We saw positive action on energy tax extenders when the Senate Finance Committee passed a comprehensive package that renews and extends 52 tax incentives that expired at the end of 2014, including several important NEMA-backed provisions. The legislation would reinstate for 2015 and extend through 2016 energy tax incentives that include the Energy-Efficient Commercial Building Tax Deduction (Section 179D supports retrofitting and renovation of buildings) and the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Section 30C supports electric vehicle charging stations). The legislation also includes bonus depreciation and the domestic research and development tax credit.

These are positive steps for NEMA-supported items, but the path to the president’s desk still will be long and difficult. Most problematic will be finding time to debate and vote on these measures. Not only are these major pieces of legislation that take time and negotiation, they are competing with other major items such as appropriations, a highway bill, the Iran nuclear deal, and the Export-Import Bank reauthorization. ei

JosephEaves,Director,GovernmentRelations| [email protected]

Ű Congress Acts on Energy Legislation before Recess


Government Relations Update

high school. This mutually beneficial relationship has continued, bringing new life to the GE Lighting campus and providing a real-world teaching and learning environment for MC2 STEM students.

MC2 STEM’s success derives mainly from the project-based learning environment, where instruction is built on rigorous, ten-week projects called capstones. Each capstone is organized around a theme and covers topics mapped to state benchmarks.

As a major part of GE’s support and volunteer efforts, employees collaborated with MC2 STEM staff to design one of these capstones. This year, the first capstone is Empowering People with Light. It challenges the students to design and prototype a lighting fixture, and potentially a controlling app, which addresses issues of equal access and opportunity for people with disabilities, and emphasizes social justice as the main driver for the fixture design. To do this, students learn not only from their teachers, but directly from GE employees who work with the student “companies” almost every day through the entire new product–introduction cycle.

Most high schools across the country are just now getting back into the swing of things, but students of the Cleveland Metropolitan

School District’s MC2 STEM High School have been in the classroom most of the summer. MC2 STEM (Metropolitan Cleveland Consortium for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) High School is a year-round, project-based, transdisciplinary, multi-campus school situated on the grounds of GE Lighting’s global headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio.

The school started with a concept and idea between the district and a supportive community: engage underserved youth in hands-on learning to close the skills gap of STEM professionals needed in Cleveland and across the nation.

GE Lighting, which looks to build a diverse pipeline of innovative leaders, expressed interest in the school district’s new model and in 2008 became the first corporate-campus host of MC2 STEM. In February 2009, students and staff moved onto GE Lighting’s headquarters campus at Nela Park, making it the first industrial park in the nation to have an embedded

STEM Careersandrea vullo, global community Relations manager, ge lighting

MC2 STEM students discuss ideas for their design of an LED fixture with a GE Lighting Edison Engineering Program member for their Empowering People with Light capstone.

MC2 STEM students learn about manual and automated manufacturing with a member of the GE Lighting Operations Management Leadership Program.

Lighting the Way to


“We continue to support this important collaboration with the Cleveland school district in order to close today’s skills gap. We need strong, diverse, future talent to continue to lead us through the lighting revolution, and MC2 STEM is the perfect way to lay seed to the next generation of GE leaders,” said GE Lighting President and CEO Maryrose Sylvester.

Since its opening seven years ago, MC2 STEM has touched about 575 students with long-lasting impact. The school has been touted nationally as a unique model, earning special awards and recognitions, including an on-screen call-out in the webcast version of President Obama’s 2014 State of the Union address. The school has seen about 80 percent of its students go on to college, many of them exploring STEM careers, and it has paved a path to success for young individuals who might never have had the opportunities afforded by this unique school. ei

Ms. Vullo is the Global Community Relations Manager at GE Lighting, where she is responsible for corporate social responsibility, including volunteerism, charitable contributions, and nonprofit relationships.

Working with staff and students on the capstone is just one way that more than 175 GE volunteers annually give more than 2,625 hours of service to the school. Employees from all functions serve as tutors, FIRST Robotics mentors, mock interviewers, staff support, and buddies. As part of the buddy program, every student is paired with a GE employee who serves as counselor and advisor, improving soft skills in ways that can’t be accomplished in the classroom or through typical high school interaction.

GE and GE Lighting have always been advocates

and supporters of STEM education, and thousands

of employees have volunteered their time to

influence change.

MC2 STEM has graduated four classes, averaging a 94 percent graduation rate; the rest of the Cleveland School district, while improving, is at about 64 percent. The primary goal is to see students pursue STEM studies and careers, to acquire STEM apprenticeships, or to use their STEM education to become successful in other fields. The secondary goal is that these young adults intern with GE—and GE is providing unique opportunities for them in their senior year of high school and as part of an internship program.

This summer, two MC2 STEM graduates were employed by GE Lighting and participated in engineering and marketing. Leah Russell, a junior this fall at Eastern Michigan University, interned as a mechanical engineer at Nela Park. While an intern, she said, “I’m working with our Albeo team, running optical simulations to test the beam angles of our Albeo products and also GE Lighting’s LED HID Replacement Lamps. I’m working on real projects with my team, and the projects we work on are very hands-on. It’s helped create a new way of problem solving for me.”

Austin Pope, a Digital Marketing intern at GE Lighting, is in his sophomore year at Bowling Green University. “Going to school at MC2 STEM was a different experience for me in terms of learning, as we did a lot of hands-on projects, as well as using different kinds of tools to help with the projects we tackled and to enhance our learning experience. I love projects that challenge our imaginations and involve intense creativity,” he said. “What really stuck with me was the idea of networking and staying connected with people who can be of some importance in your life later on.”

GE and GE Lighting have always been advocates and supporters of STEM education, and thousands of employees have volunteered their time to influence change.

Top female MC2 STEM 10th graders were honored with an opportunity to spend time and have lunch with Maryrose Sylvester, President and CEO, GE Lighting.

Photos courtesy of GE Lighting


BAckTOSchOOl

S&C made a five-year commitment in 2009 to underwrite a staff position at the Adler Planetarium. The Adler partnered with Chicago’s Air Force Academy High School (AFAHS) to bring STEM skills and career exposure to at-risk students. Jocelyn Vega, an AFAHS graduate now at Cornell University, said, “My involvement with the Adler has truly impacted my perspectives and growth outside of the classroom.”

From robotics competitions and high-altitude balloon launches to youth leadership councils and hack days, the partnership positioned the museum as a leader in teen STEM engagement. Adler teen-targeted programs now reach 20 additional Chicago public schools.

S&C’s current multi-year commitment funds Adler Teen Leaders Advancing STEM, an internship program with the fun acronym of ATLAS. Taylor R., now a Chicago public high school student, said, “My experiences at the Adler have taught me that I don’t have to be a man in a white lab coat to do science.”

While S&C is supporting the Adler in providing students with STEM experiences, it is funding the Museum of Science and Industry to use its content expertise and top-notch exhibits to educate science teachers. The museum’s Institute for Quality Science Teaching is addressing the fact that the majority of Chicago Public Schools’ middle school science teachers lack the required science credential.

The museum’s hands-on, inquiry-based “Get Re-Energized” teacher capacity-building course improved teachers’ knowledge, but more important, the program also positively influenced the formal and informal test results of their students. In an evaluation study, the teachers in the course, and their students, outperformed the control group.

“Many professional development programs are not very effective,” said the study’s author, William Schmidt, PhD, of Michigan State University. “The museum’s program is, and we now have the proof.”

As a result of S&C’s investments, teachers and students are learning that they “can do science!” S&C is educating its future—as well as its current—workforce in STEM, and in the process is, without question, changing the trajectory of lives. ei

Ms. Baggett appreciates the assistance of Michele Beaulieux, Principal, Work In Motion, in writing this article.

In pursuing its corporate mission to be the leading specialist in electric power switching, protection, and control, S&C Electric Company comes

face-to-face every day with our nation’s skills deficit in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). For its team members, S&C operates the equivalent of a community college at its Chicago headquarters, but it also sparks future generations’ interest in pursuing STEM careers through its philanthropic commitments.

S&C’s goal in its STEM investments is nothing short of changing the trajectory of lives. The appropriate age for creating a lifelong love of science is a topic of debate, but S&C Chairman of the Board John Estey posits: “It’s the experience that matters, more than the age.” So, S&C provides STEM experiences for children, teens, and college students—with or without ties to the company.

For the past half-dozen years, the S&C Foundation has earmarked half of its donations for STEM-related education. As a major employer on Chicago’s North Side, S&C funds robotics clubs and computer labs at neighborhood schools, but its biggest commitment has been multi-year grants to Chicago’s world-class science museums.

Sue Keyes, S&C CFO, explains that the support of museums is a strategic choice aimed at maximizing impact: “Museums have an infrastructure in place to make sure that programs continue. And, because of their funding, museums are accustomed to setting up metrics for evaluating programs.”

S&C Electric Company & STEM: Changing Life Trajectories

donna m. baggett, vice President, human Resources, s&c electric company

“My experiences at the Adler

have taught me that I don’t have

to be a man in a white lab coat

to do science.”

– Taylor R., now a Chicago public high school student


Introducing S&C’s Next Generation to STEM

After S&C Assistant Manager–Analytical Services Bernie Kirk (in face shield) dipped flowers in liquid nitrogen, Emma Suing was amazed to see how easily they fall apart.

For S&C’s “Take Our Children to Work Day” this year, 73 children spent the morning in volunteer-organized STEM activities—experimenting with polymers by making Silly Putty® and touring the electrical testing laboratory where they saw and heard the drama of S&C equipment protecting against electrical faults.

In the afternoon, they shadowed their parents and observed STEM careers in action. ei

Creating S&C Career Trajectories with STEM

S&C team member Mike Gomez (below, left) shows Kolman Nem, mechanical technologist, how wiring impacts electric lights, as part of the basic electricity class he volunteer teaches to other team members at S&C’s main production facility in Chicago.

Many high school graduates do not have the rudimentary STEM skills necessary for employment at S&C. In response, the company has made a commitment to develop the foundational skills of entry-level team members. Without that concerted effort, explains Gene Cottini, S&C Manager–Training & Development Services, “we will find ourselves short of those vital skills in the not-too-distant future.”

Forty-three S&C team members serve as volunteer instructors in the S&C Continuous Improvement (CI) Institute, teaching 300 fellow team members each year. The 10 in-house STEM classes in the S&C Machinist Training and Certification Program, for example, range from basic shop mathematics and blueprint reading to metrology and metallurgy. Classes are offered between the first and second shifts for two hours, twice a week, on company time.

S&C also offers tuition reimbursement for team members pursuing higher education. When Mr. Gomez became an electrical inspector at S&C, he took a tuition-reimbursed class in electricity to better understand his job. Now, after a decade of part-time classes, he is a project engineer for S&C’s Switch Products and a volunteer instructor in the S&C CI Institute, where, he says, “I can give back.” ei

Photos courtesy of S&C Electric Company

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Now in its ninth year, 12 for Life helps those who are behind in the classroom to earn necessary credits toward graduation. Some 300 students work at the Carrollton plant; a second partnership, with the Florence City Schools in Alabama, employs another 100 or so in a plant also staffed soley by students.

Students rotate from workstation to workstation, gaining experience throughout the manufacturing process. They learn a variety of job skills, including machine operation, logistics, product and reel assembly, shipping, quality assurance, and data entry. Guest speakers and tours of various Southwire facilities give students an even broader grasp of the range of available jobs and a personal glimpse of what those jobs entail. Many U.S. employers have complained that it is increasingly difficult to find job applicants with a strong work ethic. 12 for Life students learn the importance of promptness, hard work, and dedication to the job because they are actual Southwire employees.

By midyear 2015, more than 1,150 students had graduated from 12 for Life. Forty percent of those went on to post-secondary education, while another 30 percent joined the military. Another 20 percent went to work for Southwire or other employers.

The hum of electric motors provides a sonic backdrop as young hands cut and package products bound for retail stores across the country. Eyes

focus intently on the job at hand, ensuring that every package of wire meets the demands of quality.

This scene can be found in any factory in the U.S. The difference here is that high school students, looking to build better futures, staff this Georgia plant. 12 for Life, an innovative partnership between Southwire Company and Carroll County Schools, places students in real jobs, allowing them to earn wages while earning credit toward toward their diploma.

“We instill in students the belief that if they complete a full 12 years of education, they will have better lives,” said Southwire President and CEO Stu Thorn.

Research shows that not graduating from high school significantly limits employment options. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, students who drop out face an unemployment rate nearly 5 percent higher than those with high school diplomas. They also make an average $8,000 a year less. The U.S. Census Bureau puts those gaps at closer to $10,000 and reports that nearly a third of dropouts live in poverty.

12 for Life® Encourages Students to Stay in School by Providing Jobs, Skills

gary leftwich, manager of giving back, southwire company

Using a crane, a 12 for Life student stacks small reels used to transport wire processed through the program. Students build the reels and repackage wire sold on them.

Putting on the final touches, a student packages wire processed at the 12 for Life facility. Products packaged at the plant are sold through home improvement stores across the country.


12 for Life continues to draw national attention, becoming one of only a handful of workforce education programs endorsed by the White House. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs based the 12 for Life Workplace component of its Great Promise Partnership on the program. Today, Great Promise Partnership is a stand-alone program sponsored by the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Workforce Division.Thorn serves as its statewide chairman.

“We’ve gone beyond the traditional public-private model that is based largely on financial support by a business, with little or no tangible return on that investment,” Mr. Thorn said. “This is a true partnership. In addition to building a skilled pool of potential employees, Southwire generates a profit, which ensures the program’s sustainability; the school system improves its graduation rate; students build more successful lives, which the community at large also benefits from.”

With flexibility a key component, 12 for Life allows students to spend half of each day in regular classes at their home schools, then work one of three four-hour shifts. In addition, community representatives help train the students in life skills, and Southwire employees serve as mentors. The company recently invested in a series of classrooms and computer and science labs, allowing classes to be taught on site. Additional skilled learning opportunities are being developed with a curicculum focused on a new quality-control lab.

“For obvious competitive reasons, we guard our innovations very closely,” Mr. Thorn said of Southwire, a leading manufacturer of wire and cable used in the transmission and distribution of electricity. “But with 12 for Life, which truly is an innovative approach to reducing the dropout rate, we actively encourage companies and school systems across the country to form similar partnerships. It’s a proven model, and we stand ready to assist in any way we can.”

To learn more, visit www.12forlife.com. ei

Mr. Leftwich sustains Southwire’s relationships with its friends and neighbors across the country. He also manages media and public relations.

Ashley’s Story: From the Verge of Dropping Out to Building a CareerAs a new 16-year-old parent facing the struggles of high school, Ashley Jordan saw little hope of graduating, much less of building a career.

“I felt like I didn’t have a future,” Ms. Jordan said, describing the period after her daughter, Madison, was born. “I told my mother, ‘I did this. I’ll quit school, get a job, and take care of everything.’”

The desire to go to college fell victim to the sobering reality that she would now have to help support an already struggling family.

“My dad’s been in prison all my life, so my mom had to take care of me, my brother, and my sister,” Ms. Jordan recalled. “She always had to work two to three jobs to keep food on the table. We always made it, but it was tough.”

Enrolled at Bowdon High School—a 15-minute ride from Carrollton, Georgia—Ms. Jordan switched to night school to better care for her daughter. There, she learned about 12 for Life, a partnership between Southwire Company and the Carroll County Schools, which motivates students to stay in school through a combination of education, employment, and encouragement.

“I didn’t know what it was,” she said. “I knew I could still go to school and get a job to take care of my daughter and help my mom.”

So began a schedule of starting work at 8:30 in the morning and wrapping up school at 10 at night. So began Ms. Jordan’s success story, which now includes graduating from high school nine months early in 2009 and landing a job a Southwire.

Her story does not end there. Recently promoted to supervisor, Ms. Jordan stands one semester away from earning an associate degree in business from West Georgia Technical College. Where she once stood on the threshold of becoming a high school dropout, she now speaks confidently of the future and her plans to work her way up to a manager’s role.

Along the way, 12 for Life holds a special place in her heart.

“It gave me hope. It gave me a future,” she said. “It gave me a chance to turn everything around and take care of my family. It’s definitely a special place.” ei

More than 1,100 students have graduated from the 12 for Life program on their way to earning high school diplomas. At left, a student assembles a wooden reel used to package products at the program’s plant in Carrollton, Georgia.

Photos courtesy of Southwire


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Despite an uncertain economy during the past few years, Phoenix Contact has had strong growth in the U.S. market. Like most companies, it saw a significant sales drop in 2009, but business rebounded 40 percent in 2010 (with sales 10 percent higher than in 2008, prior to the economic crisis). In 2014, U.S. sales topped $300 million for the first time.

Thanks to these strong sales results and the continued demand for locally developed products, Phoenix Contact has invested in major expansion of its U.S. operations. In Spring 2014, the company completed a 125,000-square-foot expansion, which

One of Phoenix Contact’s business strategies is “getting closer to the customer.” The U.S. headquarters, in Lower Swatara Township,

Pennsylvania, is one of three “Regional Centers of Competency.” This means it is home to research, development, and manufacturing, as well as distribution, for products to meet the needs of the North and South American markets. By bringing product development and manufacturing closer to the local market, Phoenix Contact can provide faster response times and more personalized service to American consumers, and this has paid off.

Phoenix Contact Builds High-Tech Manufacturing Workforce with Mechatronics Apprentice Program

Jack nehlig, President, Phoenix contact Usa

Daniel Koprowksi, Mike Doyle, and Kurt Bruehl discuss pluggable terminal blocks as printed circuit boards come off an assembly machine, while Josh Lafferty (background) runs the machine. Mr. Koprowski and Mr. Lafferty are currently in the Phoenix Contact Mechatronics Apprenticeship program; Mr. Bruehl is a graduate. Photo courtesy of Phoenix Contact


Prior to implementing the Mechatronics Apprentice program, Phoenix Contact experienced great success with two apprenticeship programs: one for sales and marketing (started in 2006); the other for IT (started in 2011). The company applied lessons learned in those programs to offer its manufacturing employees the opportunity to grow their careers.

Each of these apprenticeship programs is designed to provide participants with a “big picture” education in how the company operates. In the Mechatronics program, for example, apprentices learn more than the ins and outs of the particular machines they operate. They receive exposure to many other facets of the business, so that they better understand how the company operates as a whole and how they impact its business.

By investing in its employees through the Mechatronics Apprenticeship and other workforce development programs, Phoenix Contact is better positioned to sustain its continued growth. Its Mechatronics Apprenticeship program not only gives Phoenix Contact employees the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue careers in today’s technically challenging manufacturing environment, it is vital to attracting employees who otherwise might not think of manufacturing as a career option. ei

Mr. Nehlig is responsible for the U.S. subsidiary of Phoenix Contact Group, as well as the Regional Center of Competence for the Americas.

added 50,000 square feet to the manufacturing floor and 50,000 square feet of office space and labs for the engineering department. U.S. employment has grown from 365 in 2005 to more than 680 employees today. More than 500 of these employees work in central Pennsylvania, including about 220 in development and manufacturing.

Phoenix Contact considers its human capital one of its most valuable assets. The company invests significantly in its people through a variety of internal and external training and development activities. Employees receive personalized training plans to help them develop both personal and work skills.

Due to its rapid expansion in manufacturing, in 2011 the company began one of its most ambitious workforce development initiatives, the Mechatronics Apprentice program, whereby trainees learn the necessary skills to support the complex technology of the machines they maintain. Phoenix Contact identified existing manufacturing employees to participate in this four-year, 8,000-hour program.

Almost two years later, in May 2013, the Mechatronics Apprentice program became the first state-approved program of its kind. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Apprenticeship and Training Council and the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship, recognized Phoenix Contact as an official apprenticeship and training sponsor, making the program available to any company that wants to start its own Mechatronics program using Phoenix Contact’s current program as a model.

Mechatronics apprentices spend 250 hours on safety; 50 hours on environmental protection; 100 hours on documentation; 400 hours on communication and collaboration; 2,300 hours on preventive maintenance; 4,500 hours on troubleshooting and repair; and 400 hours on design and building, with some 2,000 hours completed each year.

In addition, Phoenix Contact has partnered with Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) so that, at no cost to the trainees, Mechatronics Apprentices can simultaneously work at the company and toward an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Mechatronics during their in-house training. HACC’s multidisciplinary program incorporates theory and hands-on experience so students gain the broad skill sets necessary to maintain, repair, and manage systems.

In addition to the degree earned upon completion of the program, apprentices receive the title Mechatronics Technician at Phoenix Contact. As fully certified Mechatronics Technicians, they are responsible for daily operation and maintenance of sophisticated automated assembly machines on the manufacturing floor.

Energy Department Invests in University-Industry Partnerships to Enhance Building EfficiencyThe U.S. Department of Energy announced $600,000 in funding to help American universities establish stronger partnerships with industry and business in the area of building efficiency.

A recent study by the National Research Council found that increasing the com-petitiveness of American universities in building energy efficiency research and development is of great importance, and that universities need to develop stronger partnerships with business and industry in this area. The Society of Manufacturing Engineers also emphasizes the need for expanding manufacturing education at all levels, including undergraduate and graduate students.

The selections for the Building University Innovators and Leaders Development (BUILD) awards support efforts by universities to more effectively compete for building energy efficiency research and development funding, develop partnerships with industry, and improve manufacturing education. Each selected project will receive $200,000; more than 50 percent of expenditures in each project will support undergraduate studies.

Learn more at www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/articles/energy-department-invests-600000-university-industry-partnerships-enhance


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http://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/articles/energy-department-invests-600000-university-industry-partnerships-enhance

This rising Bucknell senior plans to pursue medical school and hopes to see the intersection between pediatrics, cardiology, and imaging technology in her future.

dean Keith bUffintonDean Keith Buffinton has served as the Dean of the College of Engineering at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, since 2009. He specializes in mechanical engineering and has been very active and engaged in various Bucknell programs and opportunities for student development and growth.

When asked about the importance of educating students on medical imaging, Dean Buffinton agrees that it’s an extremely important area for students: “The more we understand how humans function through imaging, the better we can diagnose disease and treat patients and their problems.”

Dean Buffinton sees imaging as a significant tool in solving several of the National Academy of Engineering’s 14 Grand Challenges, which include reverse engineering the brain, advancing health informatics, and engineering better medicines. He thinks today’s biomedical engineering students need exposure and experience in medical imaging in order to be the innovators and researchers of the future.

“Bucknell Biomedical Engineering focuses on medical devices. The environment we provide for students to learn about existing medical devices—particularly imaging—and how to make them more efficient, smaller, and more widely available, represents a tremendous opportunity not only for our students but also for the quality of healthcare worldwide.”

Internships in medical imaging provide students with unique opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology and skilled researchers to explore unexpected paths in biomedical engineering and healthcare. ei

CassandraRicci,Manager,GovernmentRelations,MITA| [email protected]

MITA’s Manager of Government Relations Cassie Ricci, a recent Bucknell graduate, spoke with students and faculty of the university’s College of

Engineering about its summer internships and the value of medical imaging in academia.

JaRed feindtDuring his internship at the Geisinger Institute in Advanced Application, in Danville, Pennsylvania, Biomedical Engineering student Jared Feindt used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology and software to measure and analyze left ventricular strain due to its relationship with heart disease. He explored his interest in medical imaging after the project’s principal investigator (PI) spoke of the opportunity during a seminar on fluid mechanics.

Speaking of his previous knowledge of medical imaging, Mr. Feindt said, “I think about using MRI scans to look at brain activity and neurodegenerative disorders. I didn’t know how useful and viable it was in fluid mechanics and exploring the mechanics of the heart.” Returning to Bucknell for his senior year, Mr. Feindt is thankful to have worked among accomplished researchers at such a prestigious institution.

“Not many undergraduate universities have access to the resources to do medical imaging, and I’m glad I had this experience to learn about this large aspect of biomedical engineering.”

Jenn RichAfter consulting with her academic advisors and professors, Jenn Rich secured an internship opportunity at the Geisinger Institute in Advanced Application researching the cardiac effects of pediatric obesity. When Ms. Rich wasn’t recruiting research subjects in pediatric clinics, she was quantifying scans of adipose tissue and comparing epicardial quantification models.

When looking at cardiac scans and images of the heart with her PI, she exclaimed, “Does this ever become less amazing?” Like Mr. Feindt, Ms. Rich’s internship broadened her perspective of the value of medical imaging and its diverse functions.

Student Spotlight on Medical Imaging

Bucknell senior Jenn Rich interned at the Geisinger Institute in Advanced Application, where she quantified scans of adipose tissue.


Vids for Grids was one of 54 Smart Grid workforce training programs funded by the Department of Energy as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Produced in collaboration with Northern Virginia Community College, George Mason University, and NEMA member companies, the videos demonstrate Smart Grid equipment, explain electrical engineering concepts, and portray careers in electrical manufacturing.

NEMA member companies were Beacon Power, Cooper Power Systems, Eaton, Elster Metering, Hubbell Incorporated, Leviton, Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Rockwell Automation, Southwire Company, Thomas & Betts, and The Valley Group (a Nexans Company). ei

PatWalsh,EditorinChief| [email protected]

pinpointing safety hazards and addresses the best ways to upgrade a building to handle potential threats to building owners and occupants. This section is designed to give building owners the information they need to identify safety threats. However, self-assessment is a supplement to, not a substitute for, working with a trained professional to ensure the highest level of safety performance for any building.

ResilienceSevere weather, coupled with aging and overstressed electrical systems, has a dramatic impact on people and property across the U.S. Resilience is not limited to weather events. Building owners can and should prepare their buildings to defend against cyberattacks, since cybersecurity is becoming a greater concern. In 2004, Lawrence Berkley National Lab estimated that the annual financial cost from power loss in the U.S. averaged $79 billion. This financial burden, coupled with the potential for loss of confidential or proprietary information, is reason enough to examine the resilience of buildings’ energy systems. This section of the Toolkit is designed to help a building owner make a building more resilient against severe weather or, if it has already been damaged by a severe weather event, to rebuild smart. ei

Mr. Rodriguez ([email protected]) works in the renewables and energy efficiency arena. He manages NEMA‘s High Performance Building and Daylight Management councils.

Interested in an energy career? Check out Vids for Grids: New Media for the New Energy Workforce. NEMA launched it in June 2010 to demonstrate a

best practice in integrating new media into engineering core curricula for high school seniors and first-year college students.

Twelve 10-minute videos demonstrating the fundamental concepts behind electrical transmission and distribution are available on NEMA’s Vids4Grids YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/Vids4Grids/videos).

Topics include automation controllers, conductors, connectors, dynamic line ratings, grid-scale flywheel energy storage for frequency regulation, grid-scale battery storage, lighting controls, smart meters, surge arresters, surge protection devices, switchgear, and voltage regulators.

Assembled by industry experts, NEMA’s Building Owner’s Toolkit provides a step-by-step guide to improving performance in commercial

buildings. Users will better understand the process of assessing a building’s state of performance, thus enabling them to make informed decisions about what level of performance makes sense for a building’s occupants and act on that information to upgrade building performance.

EnergyEfficiencyBuildings consume 70 percent of the electricity and 40 percent of the primary energy (i.e., natural gas, coal, oil) in the U.S.; as much as 84 percent of that energy is wasted. Available off-the-shelf, energy-efficient equipment can save a building owner 30 percent or more in annual energy consumption. Surveys have shown that financial burden is the number one reason building owners do not invest in energy-saving upgrades. The Building Owner’s Toolkit explains a number of ways to pay for energy-efficiency upgrades that don’t require up-front capital expenditure.

SafetyA high-performing building should protect its occupants from accidents and injuries. This section of the website assesses a building’s electrical and life-safety systems. Electrical faults can result in fires, explosions, and shocks that can cause loss of property, health, and life. The Toolkit serves as a guide to

Learn How to Increase Building Performance Paul Rodriguez, nema Junior Program manager

Vids 4 Grids Brings Electroindustry Careers to Life

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https://www.youtube.com/user/Vids4Grids

https://www.youtube.com/user/Vids4Grids/videos

http://www.buildingtoolkit.org/

http://www.buildingtoolkit.org/

To help combat this situation, several of today’s leading commercial real estate landlords, tenants, and brokers are incorporating green clauses into their leases in order to incentivize investments in energy-efficiency improvements, lower energy costs, and cut emissions. With a green lease, improvements often can be shifted from capital expense to operating expense, since owners are often able to recoup from tenants costs designated as operating expenses.

Could a commercial lease be preventing your customers or clients from investing in energy-efficient electrical equipment? Traditional leases

separate costs in a way that discourages landlord and tenant collaboration, while creating what is known as the “split incentive” problem: a landlord has no incentive to improve the energy efficiency of a building, while the tenant bears the brunt of wasteful and poorly performing building systems, such as A/C and heating.

COFFEE

Benchmarking in ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager helps landlordsmeasure and manage their buildings’ energy consumption.

Plug loads, such as computers and refrigerators, arethe fastest growing segment of energy use. Plug and process loads account for about 33% of building energyconsumption, which is more than heating, cooling, or even lighting. Setting o�ce equipment to automatically turn o� with advanced power strips can lead to huge savings.

Training asset and leasing managers in the bene�ts of greenbuildings is important, as they in turn can communicate bene�tsto prospective tenants.

Daytime cleaningallows for a reductionin building operating

hours and can beagreed upon as part of

the lease process.

Regularly commissioned building systems operate more e�cientlyyear round. It’s like giving your building a check-up. Commissioning a typical building costs $.30/sq. ft., and the resulting energysavings provide a 91% cash-on-cash return for building owners.

Reducing operating hours to only those when the building is occupiedmeans the A/C won’t waste energy by cooling an empty building.

Submetering aspace increasestransparency andallows tenants tokeep track of andpay only for theenergy they use.

Advanced lightingcontrols andmotion sensorsincrease lighting e�ciency and allow more control over thebrightness of an o�ce.

Green Leases Drive Energy Efficiency and Customer Engagement

adam sledd, director of commercial Real estate engagement, institute for market transformation

Infographic courtesy of the Institute for Market Transformation


appliances and equipment tenants use can increase, or help to decrease, energy usage and costs.

By clarifying a tenant’s role in such activities as water use and waste reduction, landlords can resolve in advance barriers to measurement success. They also can establish a standard for communicating key energy and environmental ratings to current and prospective tenants and investors in a timely manner. And for product manufacturers, these discussions between landlord and tenant can lead to opportunities to better explain and showcase how equipment can help maximize building and space performance and how it can be used to address energy saving goals.

Promoting TransparencyAnother major focus of green leasing is energy transparency: how energy consumption is measured, reported, and billed. This is covered in multiple sections of any commercial lease. As the saying goes, you can’t manage what you don’t measure, and the current lack of transparent energy data in the leasing process presents a major barrier to efficient operations.

Sub- or separate meters for electricity, water, and natural gas are typical for some building types (outdoor malls, for example), but many office and retail tenants are still paying a simple pro-rata share of utilities based on square footage. That means if one tenant business reduces energy use, maybe by changing to LED lighting, that business won’t actually save money.

Energy transparency can be an important issue for landlords because of the number of cities that have benchmarking and transparency laws, which require landlords to report whole-building energy usage or face potential fines. Many separately metered tenants will provide utility data to help their landlord comply with the law, but others might refuse to on the basis of privacy. Writing energy use transparency into a lease might help avoid litigation.

In the end, by setting a legal framework for making sustainable, energy-efficient improvements to a building, landlords can establish a foundation to create stronger assets, while tenants can enjoy more affordable, efficient, and more comfortable spaces. And manufacturers just might find new ways to boost their company and products’ value propositions to help drive investment in energy-efficiency improvements and equipment. To learn more about green leasing, access case studies, and review sample green lease clauses, visit greenleaselibrary.com. ei

Mr. Sledd leads the Institute for Market Transformation’s efforts to engage the commercial real estate industry in energy efficiency strategies and helps individual companies, trade associations, and government agencies save money and energy by incorporating sustainability into the landlord-tenant relationship.

If you were to compare a green lease with a traditional one, the difference might not be immediately apparent. The key change is the addition of language that encourages landlords and tenants to work together on certain sustainability or energy efficiency goals. Since the lease lays out how various costs and benefits will be distributed during occupancy, a properly conceived green lease can set the stage for greater energy savings than could be attained if each party acted alone.

Who Benefits from a Green Lease?For tenants that care about increasing sustainability, the green lease is a perfect place to start. The process begins with site selection, and both parties’ sustainability aims should be made clear during the letter of intent (LOI) phase. The LOI outlines many key points that will go into the eventual lease, such as rental rate, duration, and the work to be done in the tenant space. By emphasizing efficiency goals from the earliest stages of the process, a tenant can lay the foundation for a green lease well in advance of actual negotiations.

Brokers play a crucial role in every commercial real estate negotiation, facilitating many interactions between landlords and tenants. They’re often relied on to identify and add sustainable best practices into the lease, and they can provide helpful guidance on green buildings. If high-performing office or retail space is the goal, start by looking for buildings where the owner is already implementing energy efficiency improvements. Once a broker has assembled a variety of potential sites, it’s worth making a list of questions to ask during a building tour. These questions might include:

• What kind of recycling program does the building have?

• Is the building owner willing to submeter plug loads and lights, and bill separately, so the tenant can capture any gains from their energy efficiency?

• Does the building owner have some form of cost recovery for any energy efficiency upgrades the tenant makes to the base building systems?

Asking property managers and leasing agents key sustainability questions during an initial meeting or tour can help a tenant understand each landlord’s approach to sustainability and what kind of energy efficiency improvements are achievable. By doing so, they can quickly narrow a search to spaces that meet their criteria and achieve a relatively high-performance space without exorbitant construction costs.

Working with TenantsWhile a large part of the energy used in a building is determined by the building’s characteristics and systems, occupant behavior also has significant impact. Occupancy schedules, usage patterns, behaviors and attitudes, and the


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http://www.greenleaselibrary.com/

http://www.imt.org/news/the-current/green-leasing-can-save-the-u.s.-office-market-3.3-billion-annually

Five years ago, when my company secured 662 greenfield acres of prairie north of Denver, Colorado, we didn’t foresee what is emerging as Niobrara

Energy Park, which Forbes has called the world’s largest planned microgrid. We knew we had a nice industrial site on our hands, but we understood neither its microgrid potential nor the process to unlock it.

Fortunately, we began by ordering a due-diligence study on the site’s high-voltage electric. It turned out that a new, $40 million transmission grid ran over the property, quadrupling the power capacity from a single 150 kV to double 230 kV. It turned out that the 200 MW of excess power allowed a grid-backed microgrid, as well as the ability to shed excess energy to the Ault substation, the largest electrical trading hub in Colorado and a mere 18 miles downstream. While we stumbled onto a site with ample electricity and grid proximity, we learned these are essential microgrid location criteria.

Next we looked at the site’s natural gas resources. This study revealed that not only did several major gas transmission lines already exist on-site, but one of the three largest natural gas trading hubs in the U.S. was a stone’s throw away, providing a close source for the lowest-cost natural gas in America. Later in the project timeline, we chose to leverage the site’s natural gas potential by applying for and securing the first Colorado PUC investor-owned gas utility in 17 years. This innovative step cleared the way for natural gas supply distribution and a direct supply pipeline from the hub, greatly improving options of natural gas contracts.

The heart of a microgrid seems to be natural gas, so natural gas to power it is even more important than ample electricity. An April 2015 Forbes article claims that abundant shale natural gas is transforming manufacturing because it is increasingly being used to power manufacturers’ microgrids, which in turn yield cost-efficiency and a smaller carbon footprint.

Renewable energy is also intrinsic to the microgrid concept because renewables ensure energy efficiency as well as long-term sustainability. The Niobrara Energy Park site enjoys ample sunshine and wind—as evidenced by the three regional wind farms and an under-construction 30 MW solar farm located nearby—not to mention abundant fiber from more than 21 providers and volumes of clean, cool industrial water securely on-site.

How to Build a Utility-Scale Microgrid

craig harrison, founder, niobrara energy Park

A utility-scale microgrid should encompass alternative energy sources, security, and accessibility. Drawing courtesy of Niobrara Energy Park


Electricity, check. Natural gas, check. Renewables, check. Not only does this holy trinity of power sources allow microgrids to maximize sustainability and efficiency, it can ensure 99.9999 percent–reliable uptime, as well as rock-solid power stability because microgrids—again, by definition—can operate independently from the grid. For a microgrid site, flexibility of fuel choices also permits dynamic, nimble power creation and use that can flex with changing market conditions and unknown future needs.

Under the EPA’s new Clean Power Plan, microgrids that enjoy abundant on-site natural gas and renewables will likely find themselves in an enviable position: less reliant on buying grid electricity, which is predicted to become simultaneously more expensive and less reliable under the new regulations, and ahead of the curve in their capacity to harness renewables.

Elucidating and leveraging a microgrid site’s potential requires skilled engineering. As soon as we had an inkling of the breadth and magnitude of the fuel sources on-site, we hired CH2M Hill to co-vision and engineer the project.

Future-Proofing the SiteThe next step in our microgrid-building process involved maximizing the site’s zoning. We applied for the first all-industrial/commercial PUD zoning in Weld County, and the county commissioners granted the project “future-proof zoning” for 52 approved energy, manufacturing, and data land uses (some of which haven’t been invented yet), along with a multitude of permissions, including environmental waivers on natural gas power plants, a substation of any size, high-transmission lines of any size within the project boundaries, gas plants to 650 MW, and renewables up to 50 MW for fuel cells, solar, wind, and even energy storage of any size.

We see pursuing robust zoning for a microgrid site as an innovative, value-added step—one that not only readies a project for current uses but holds the door wide open for future possibilities. We also learned that starting with a greenfield site instead of a retrofit made our zoning gambit stronger and ultimately more successful.

One final consideration when building a microgrid is site security—cyber as well as physical. Autonomous as they are, microgrids can be islands unto themselves, especially if sited well. With its own power, water, telecommunications, and fiber grids, Niobrara Energy Park promises to be a Digital Fort Knox™. Nestled near the Colorado/Wyoming border, it’s physically remote yet within a half-hour commute for 300,000 highly educated workers living in northern Colorado and southeast Wyoming, and accessible to the world from Denver International Airport.

We learned that siting a microgrid is often tricky. By their very nature, they generate and consume power. Traditional power plants—unsightly and messy—have been built far from population bases, sending their power over long distances via the public grid. Microgrids, conversely, need to be closer in (for employee commuting), but not too close. It’s rare to find a retrofit site in this sweet spot.

Niobrara Energy Park’s platting was completed in February 2015. While we didn’t set out to build the world’s largest microgrid, we’re proud of where we are headed, and look forward to watching as it becomes the home of a world-class manufacturing/industrial giant seeking microgrid secure power. ei

Mr. Harrison has been a Colorado commercial land innovator for almost 40 years. He is also a rancher and founder of Niobrara Energy Park (http://niobraraenergypark.com).

662 greenfield acres of prairie in north Colorado boasts ample electricity and grid proximity. Photo courtesy of Niobrara Energy Park

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http://niobraraenergypark.com/

The primary reason is that the Baby Boomer generation is hitting retirement age. In the construction industry, more than half of the skilled workers are over 45. Among electricians, that figure is 72 percent. As leaders of the industry retire, there are not enough skilled electricians of generations X and Y to replace them.

What Is Apprenticeship?The most effective tool for building the future of the skilled trades is apprenticeship. It is an education system that combines supervised on-the-job training with formal classroom instruction. This learning style consistently produces high-quality workers. While the apprentice is in a program, the employer receives a hard-working and vested worker; the employee receives a pathway to a well-paying career. Once the

The Great Recession hit America hard. Unemployment spiked to 10 percent; tens of thousands of people lost their jobs. It was especially

difficult for those who were just entering the workforce. Recent college graduates vied for jobs with more experienced workers, resulting in fewer opportunities. Thousands of graduates did not find jobs; those who did were often underemployed.

For the construction industry, new building came to a near standstill in the residential sector and slowed considerably for commercial. Electrical contractors felt the impact: fewer jobs on which to bid—and razor-thin margins when they did win.

But now, the electrical industry and many other construction trades are facing a severe skilled-labor shortage. How is this possible?

Apprenticeship: Leading the Recoverythayer long, executive vice President/ceo, independent electrical contractors

IEC members review blueprints during a solar panel installation in Cincinnati, Ohio. Photos courtesy of IEC


Graduating debt-free is a tremendous advantage of apprenticeship, but the question for students is whether they will have a lifetime career. When they enroll in post-secondary education, they are looking for a path to a career in a field they enjoy but also one that puts them in the best position to provide for themselves and their family.

Electrician is a career that has been in high demand for decades, and the demand for skilled workers in this field is only increasing because of our reliance on technology. The number of electricians needed in America is predicted to grow by 20 percent by 2022. Currently, there are not enough electricians entering the trade to meet that staggering number. With higher demand comes increased income for those now in the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2014), the median journeyman electrician’s salary is $50,110.

Apprenticeship opens the door to professional growth. Many programs offer college credits should a graduate apprentice choose to continue training. The IEC Apprentice Training Program, for example, offers 40 hours of college credits to its graduates. The number of credits differs depending on the program—ACE College Credit Recommendation Service recommended 40 hours for IEC based on the high quality of program content and the variety of delivery methods.

Government leaders are now recognizing apprenticeship as a key contributor to economic recovery. It is a job creator and provides a means for continuing education for individuals with various technical abilities. Last year, the White House launched “Ready to Work,” an initiative designed to emphasize the need for skilled jobs in America. IEC’s Bartlett, Tennessee–based Mid-South chapter was recognized by the White House as a training program matching workers with the skills they need for today’s jobs. Further stressing the importance of apprenticeship, Congress has proposed a bill to give tax credits to companies that hire new apprentices.

Apprenticeship will continue to expand and help grow the future of America’s workforce. It is up to employers and educators to cultivate the technical skills of the next generation.

All statistics are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics unless otherwise noted.

For more information, visit www.ieci.org.

Mr. Long is executive vice president/CEO of the IEC, a national trade association for merit shop electrical and systems contractors. In 2015, IEC’s Four-Year Apprenticeship Program will educate more than 8,000 electrical apprentices.

apprentice graduates, the company has a well-trained and highly educated employee. In 2014, there were 410,000 apprentices in programs nationwide.

The Office of Apprenticeship, in the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), has a set of structured standards that programs must meet in order to become a Registered Apprenticeship Program. For the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Four-Year Apprentice Training Program, apprentices must complete 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and a minimum 576 hours of related technical instruction. To build a well-rounded electrician requires diverse training, from electrical theory and mechanical skills to codes and standards and first aid.

Apprenticeship vs CollegeThe shortage of workers in the skilled trades extends beyond the aging workforce. For years, high schools emphasized that college was the only route to a rewarding career. This adversely affected vocational programs. College is an excellent path to numerous careers, and many jobs require a four-year college degree. But for trades that require a different set of skills not covered by a college curriculum, there was considerable reduction in potential employees. Apprenticeship allows individuals with high technical ability and an interest in working with their hands an opportunity to receive an education tailored to their expertise.

Apprenticeship provides students with an opportunity to “earn while you learn.” While apprentices receive their on-the-job training, they are also earning a living. Most employers also pay tuition, which reduces the student’s financial investment. This is especially significant when compared with the cost of post-secondary education today. The average college graduate leaves school with $35,000 in student loan debt—and that number rises every year, according to The Wall Street Journal. By contrast, the overwhelming majority of apprentices will graduate from their programs debt-free.

An IEC apprentice learns in a hands-on training lab at the IEC Texas Gulf Coast chapter in Houston.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2014), the median journeyman electrician’s salary is $50,110.


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http://www.ieci.org

ElectroindustryNews

Revathi Advaithi was elected to the NEMA Board of Governors during its July meeting. Ms. Advaithi was recently appointed chief operating officer, Electrical Sector, Eaton. In her new role, Ms. Advaithi is responsible for the company’s $13.8 billion global electrical business.

Prior to that she served as president of the Electrical Sector for the America’s Region. Ms. Advaithi held various other

business roles across Eaton in Europe, Asia, and North America.

Ms. Advaithi has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science in Pilani, India, and a master of business administration in international business from Thunderbird-Garvin School of International Business in Glendale, Arizona. ei

Ű Revathi Advaithi Joins NEMA Board of Governors

The following companies were approved for full membership at NEMA’s July 2015 Board of Governors meeting:

EastPennManufacturingCo.Inc.(www.dekabatteries.com) Energy Storage Systems; HitachiHVB,Inc.(hvbi.hitachi.us) Switchgear Section;

IntelightInc.(www.intelight-its.com) Transportation Management Systems & Associated Control Devices Section; LumiledsLLC(www.lumileds.com) Ballast and Driver Section, Light Source Section; TESLAMotors,Inc.(www.teslamotors.com) Electric Vehicle

Supply Equipment/Systems Section, Energy Storage Systems; and UniEnergyTechnologies,LLC(www.uetechnologies.com) Energy Storage Systems ei

ChristineShattuck,MemberRelationsManager| [email protected]

Ű NEMA Board of Governors Approves New Members

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Year after year, contact with overhead power lines is the leading cause of electrical fatalities among agricultural workers. Of the 1,001 reported power-line contact incidents from 2003-09, nearly 70 percent resulted in death. These findings clearly demonstrate the need for overhead power line training for agricultural workers to help reduce the incidence of injury and death at the worksite.

With that in mind, ESFI, in partnership with the agricultural safety non-profit AgSafe, developed a comprehensive

train-the-trainer program to help teach managers how to educate employees at the work-site about the dangers of overhead power lines.

The multifaceted training program addresses:

• benefits of overhead power line safety training;

• examples of hazardous situations associated with overhead power lines;

• effective tips to prevent harm caused by overhead power lines;

• appropriate actions following an incident involving overhead power lines;

• avoiding complacency on the agricultural worksite.

The PowerPoint presentation and an accompanying poster, available in English and Spanish, can be downloaded free at www.esfi.org/overhead-power-line-safety. ei

JulieChavanne,CommunicationsDirector,ESFI| [email protected]

Ű ESFI Aims to Reduce Overhead Power Line Fatalities with Train-the-Trainer Program


http://www.esfi.org/overhead-power-line-safety

http://www.esfi.org/overhead-power-line-safety

ElectroindustryNews

ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) award programs recognized the achievements and contributions of many individuals in the NEMA family in their annual accolades. These awards cross a broad spectrum, acknowledging standardization contributions in both organizations. ANSI awardees will be honored during a September 30 ceremony held in conjunction with World Standards Week 2015 in Washington, D.C.

ansi 2015 leadeRshiP and seRvice awaRdsANSI Leadership and Service Awards recognize significant contributions to national and international standardization activities, as well as an ongoing commitment to the enhancement of the global voluntary consensus standards system.

Longtime NEMA colleague Philip Piqueira, vice president, global standards for UL, will receive the Astin-Polk International Standards Medal, which honors distinguished service in promoting trade and understanding among nations through the advancement, development,

NEMA Senior Program Manager Ryan Franks is one of five recipients of ANSI’s 2015 Next Generation Award, which is given to persons who have been engaged in standardization or conformity assessment activities for fewer than eight years and who have, during that time, demonstrated vision, leadership, dedication, and significant contributions to their chosen fields of activity.

According to NEMA President and CEO Kevin J. Cosgriff, Mr. Franks is “the definition of the next generation of standards professional.”

or administration of international standardization, measurements, or certification.

Among the five individuals, with an engagement of fewer than eight years, to receive the Next Generation Award honoring standardization or conformity assessment activities are Ryan Franks, technical program manager, NEMA; and Carin Stuart, senior technology engineer, Energizer Battery Manufacturing, Inc., a NEMA member company.

Usnc 2015 iec yoUng PRofessionals Christopher R. Dorr, a senior hardware engineer at Rockwell Automation, is one of three 2015 IEC Young Professionals who will participate in the IEC General Meeting in Belarus in October. Mr. Dorr has been designing industrial and communications products for almost eight years and has collaborated with teams at Rockwell Automation that ensure its products conform to IEC standards.

iec 1906 awaRdThe IEC 1906 Award recognizes exceptional and recent achievement related to IEC activities. Individuals from NEMA member companies are Auguste Ankou, PhD, Itron; Donald Barta, Rea Magnet Wire, Inc.; Ewald Bockel, Siemens

Mr. Franks is secretary of the U.S. Technical Advisory Group to IEC TC120 Electrical Energy Storage Systems, convener of the IEC ad hoc Group on Energy Storage System Aspects and Gap Analysis, and secretary of the ANSI Accredited Standards Committee on Energy Storage Systems. He is also working group chair of the EPRI Energy Storage Integration Council, working group chair of the Department of Energy Protocol for Uniformly Measuring and Expressing the Performance of Energy Storage Systems, U.S. expert to IEC

AG; Max Carstedt, Rockwell Automation; Hui Min (Bill) Chai, GE Industries System; Lance Cooley, PhD, ABB; Henry Dawidczak, Siemens; Francois Delince, ABB Power Quality Products; Alec Dorling, Sony; Edgar Dullni, ABB; Esbjörn Eriksson, ABB Power Technologies AB; Peter Ferstl, Siemens; William R. Finley, Siemens Industry, Inc.; Elik Fooks, Philips; Beniamino Gorini, Samsung Display Co., Ltd; Mikitaka Itoh, Alstom; René Jensen, Rockwell Automation; Shin Gak Kang, PhD, Siemens AG; Andreas Klink, Samsung Display Co., Ltd; Rainer Knuff, Siemens AG; Lothar Laske, Schneider Electric; Philippe Loizelet, Schneider; William Long, Consultant for Eaton; David Mazzarese, Ericsson; David Osborn, Philips Healthcare; Jacques Peronnet, Schneider Electric/Grenoble; Hauke Peters, ABB; Piotr Przydatek, Schneider Electric; Holger Pufahl, PhD, Siemens Healthcare Diagnostic; Werner Radauer, Mitsubishi Electric Inc.; Bruno Ricciardi, PhD, Landis + Gyr AG; Bernd Schulz, PhD, Itron; Zähler & Systemtechnik GmbH; Robert Spears, Eaton; and Ryota Ujita, Panasonic Corp. ei

KenGettman,NEMAInternationalStandardsDirector|

[email protected]

Systems Evaluation Group (SEG) 6 on Microgrids, and an active participant in IEC SEG 1 on Smart Cities.

An engineer, Mr. Franks has authored several conference proceedings and journal articles, is the inventor on two patents and has other patents pending, and was named a 2014 IEC Young Professional. ei

PatWalsh,EditorinChief| [email protected]

Ű NEMA Members, Staff Recognized by ANSI, IEC Awards

Ű NEMA’s Ryan Franks Honored with ANSI 2015 Next Generation Award


A recent study by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) shows that U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 3,810 structure fires in college dormitories and Greek housing each year. These fires result in an annual average of two deaths, 30 injuries, and $9 million in direct property damage.

Between 2007 and 2011, 57 percent of the reported fires in these properties occurred in buildings with automatic suppression equipment, such as sprinklers. This percentage nearly doubled from the 1994–1998 reporting period, which illustrates that sprinkler installation is on the rise. Sprinklers have proven effective in combating these fires, as the presence of wet pipe sprinklers has been shown to reduce property damage by 65 percent over incidents with no automatic extinguishing equipment present.

Fatality statistics are a lot more staggering, however, when examining fire incidents that take place in off-campus housing. According to Campus Firewatch, 87 percent of the 170 campus-related fire fatalities that occurred since 2000 took place in off-campus occupancies. These fatal off-campus fires were attributed to factors that included lack of fire sprinklers,

no working smoke alarms, impaired judgement due to alcohol consumption, and careless disposal of smoking materials.

The incidence of fires in on- and off-campus housing has prompted a nationwide effort to bring fire safety to college campuses. For the 11th consecutive year, September has been designated as “Campus Fire Safety Month.” The effort was founded by the Center for Campus Fire Safety.

To draw attention to Campus Fire Safety Month, NFPA, the Center for Campus Fire Safety, the University of New Haven (UNH) Fire Science Club, and Domino’s are presenting the first ever Campus Fire Safety Sweepstakes & Contest. For the sweepstakes, students who watch a video made by the Fire Science Club at UNH will be entered to win a Domino’s pizza party. For the contest, students who watch a series of video tips and explain how they will implement one are eligible to win an iPad.

For Campus Fire Safety Month, NFPA offers the following tips:

• Look for fully sprinklered housing when choosing a dorm or off-campus housing.

• Make sure your dormitory or apartment has smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on each level. For the best protection, all smoke alarms should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.

• Test all smoke alarms at least monthly, and never remove batteries or disable smoke alarms.

• Never leave cooking food unattended.

• Cook only where it is permitted.

• If you smoke, smoke outside and only where permitted. Use sturdy, deep, non-tip ashtrays. Don’t smoke in bed or when you’ve been drinking or are drowsy.

• Learn your building’s evacuation plan and practice all drills as if they were the real thing. If you live off campus, have a fire escape plan with two ways out of every room.

Sweepstakes and contest run through September 25. For details and an extensive library of resources visit www.nfpa.org/campus and www.campusfiresafety.org. ei

JulieChavanne,CommunicationsDirector,ESFI|

[email protected]

Ű Promoting Fire Safety among College Students

Tom Gross (left) was recognized for his years of service on the NEMA Board of Governors with a commemorative gift presented by Don Hendler, board chairman. Mr. Gross, who retired from Eaton August 31, tendered his resignation as a NEMA board member effective on that date. Photo by Gene Eckhart


http://www.nfpa.org/campus

http://www.campusfiresafety.org

Code Actions/Standardization Trends

When the NEMA Codes and Standards Committee (C&S) convened on August 13, it was the group’s 500th meeting. With an average of six meetings per year, that suggests the committee began meeting around 1932, or six years after NEMA was formed. No one knows precisely when C&S was established, but no other NEMA committee comes close to its 500-meeting record, not even the Board of Governors.

Why has C&S existed for so long, and what makes it so valuable to the membership? The answer to this question lies in its mission, as set forth in section 6.2.1 of NEMA Standardization Policies and Procedures (SP&P):

The Codes and Standards Committee is responsible for supervising and correlating all work of the Association in the development of technical standards, rules, codes, specifications, or other regulations, both within

the Association and in cooperation with other organizations, except as such authority is assigned to another NEMA Committee or Council.

In addition to being responsible for NEMA’s technical positions, C&S also approves NEMA standards, appoints NEMA representatives to outside bodies, addresses U.S. and Canadian conformity assessment issues, and provides guidance to the Field Representative Program.

C&S essentially provides “another set of eyes” to ensure that technical positions are sound and, more important, that they do not adversely affect any of the association’s 58 sections. Some sections have competing products; some manufacture components that are used in others’ products; and some sections’ products combine with products from other sections to form systems. C&S conducts its review of technical documents or positions with this in mind.

faQs1. DoesC&Sslowthingsdown? C&S Officers (chair and four vice

chairs) are empowered by language in SP&P to act for the committee as necessary on all issues except standards approval. This allows for quick approval of votes on ballots, for example, that often must be submitted within short timeframes.

2. IsC&Sjustarubberstamp?It would be unrealistic to assume that every C&S member is an expert in every agenda item for every meeting. Agendas themselves might be 60-70 pages. Many agenda items have associated files or exhibits, which can be hundreds of pages. There is a sufficiently long track record to justify confidence in the committee’s ability to rely on expertise within its overall breadth of experience to assure each agenda receives knowledgeable scrutiny. Further, these seasoned individuals are adept at identifying anything that requires additional review by the submitting section or other interested or affected sections.

3. WhatelsedoesC&Sdo? C&S has several task forces that undertake activities on behalf of members and the association. The Task Force on State Code Adoptions, for instance, meets monthly to provide direction for the essential work on code adoption. The Task Force on Refurbishing Electrical Products is drafting a position on refurbishing/reconditioning electrical products. The Joint Task Force on Electronic Labeling is preparing a recommendation for future involvement in this area.

4. WhatdoC&SmembersdoonbehalfofNEMAbetweenmeetings? In addition to reviewing the Main, Supplemental, and Walk-On agenda

Ű C&S Holds 500th Meeting—Still Going Strong

C&S Chairman Jim Wright (Siemens Industry) brings the gavel down on the 500th C&S meeting August 13, at the NEMA Conference Center. He is joined by (from left) Dave Kendall (Thomas & Betts, a Member of the ABB Group); Steven Regnaud (Hubbell Lighting, Inc.); Greg Steinman (Thomas & Betts, a Member of the ABB Group); Vince Baclawski (NEMA Senior Technical Director, Codes and Standards); Christel Hunter (General Cable); Vince Saporita (Eaton’s Bussmann Business); Steve Campolo (Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.); and Kevin J. Cosgriff (NEMA President and CEO). Photo by Pat Walsh


Code Actions/Standardization Trends

items, C&S members serve on aforementioned subcommittees and task forces. Twenty active subcommittees report to C&S committees and meet between C&S meetings.

5. HowdoindividualsgetchosenforC&S?

Candidates for membership are identified in multiple ways. They might make their interest known to a current C&S member or NEMA staff. The C&S Nominating Committee (NC) might actively seek one or more individuals from member companies with experience and expertise in an industry sector to fill a gap. And, NEMA management can identify promising individuals to the NC.

It meets several times each year to consider the composition of C&S membership, coverage, and balance of the various sectors that fall under the NEMA scope, as well as nominations for membership.

The NC prepares its report and

recommendations based on this analysis and other factors (e.g., anticipated retirement from C&S). C&S considers the NC recommendations; decides which, if any, nominations it wants to endorse; then submits the entire slate and its recommendation to the Standards and Conformity Assessment Policy Committee (SCAPC). Nominations are reviewed and approved by SCAPC, generally at its fall meeting.

Although members are appointed as individuals to C&S, owing to mergers and other business reorganizations, NEMA management, working with SCAPC, reviews the composition of C&S regularly. This review ensures that C&S is balanced by expertise, types and sizes of companies, and diversity of NEMA-member employees.

NEMA management and staff acknowledge the dedication of all C&S members, current and past. We look forward to the next 500 meetings. ei

VinceBaclawski,SeniorTechnicalDirector,CodesandStandards|

[email protected]

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Code Actions/Standardization TrendsCode Actions/Standardization Trends

field ReP RePoRt

Mike Stone

Ű Updating West Coast Code Adoption StatusaRizonaArizona is a home rule state, meaning that each individual jurisdiction adopts construction codes as it sees fit. The result is a considerable patchwork of NEC editions, with some rural counties still using the 1999 edition. Most major jurisdictions, such as Phoenix and Tucson, are on the 2011 NEC. There are no statewide plans to move forward with 2014 adoption, although it makes sense for a heavy user of solar PV technology, such as Arizona, to be on the most current code.

califoRniaCalifornia is in the process of its tri-annual cycle to adopt the 2015 I-codes, 2016 California Title 24 Energy Code, and the 2014 NEC. As proposed, the 2014 edition will be adopted with minimal amendments. The California Building Standards Commission is scheduled to vote on final adoption in December; codes will become effective one year after adoption, on January 1, 2017.

hawaiiHawaii is using the 2008 NEC. The Hawaii State Building Code Council has approved adoption of the 2014 edition, skipping over 2011. The state needs to fund the position of executive director for the Building Code Council, however, and adoption of the 2014 NEC is on hold until this is accomplished. State statute allows individual counties to adopt codes on their own, and at their annual business meeting in May 2015, some county building officials, including

There are 11 states in the NEMA West Coast Region: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington adopted and are enforcing the 2014 National Electrical Code® (NEC).

alasKaAlaska is using the 2011 NEC. The State of Alaska Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire and Life Safety, proposed adoption of the 2014 edition in fall 2014. Adoption was put on hold, however, after the November 2014 election of Governor Bill Walker. State agencies were unsure what the approach of the new administration would be, and pending regulatory updates were delayed. It is anticipated that a decision will be made on 2014 NEC adoption this year.

from the city and county of Honolulu, considered individual adoption if the state does not fund the position soon. Hawaii leads the nation in percentage of wind and solar energy installations, and building and fire officials are anxious to use the most current safety codes.

nevadaLike Arizona, Nevada is a home rule state. Many of the jurisdictions, however, collaborate on code adoption with consistent amendments. The major jurisdictions, as well as most of the rest of the state, use the 2011 NEC. There are no plans at this time to move forward with adoption of the 2014 edition.

UtahUtah is on the 2008 NEC, while residential portions of the code regarding AFCI and GFCI protection are on 2005 provisions. Earlier this year, the Utah Legislature considered a bill that would have adopted the 2014 edition but also would have put Utah on a six-year (originally nine-year) code cycle. NEMA participated in an active stakeholder group that opposed the bill, and the bill expired before it could be acted upon, with the result that the 2014 NEC has not been adopted. The Legislature met in special session this summer and passed a similar bill, which will be heard during the regular session this Fall. The same stakeholder group will again take action to oppose the legislation, although adoption of the 2014 NEC is a priority. ei

MikeStone,NEMAWestCoastFieldRepresentative| [email protected]

IEC 7th USNC TAG Leadership WorkshopThe 7th USNC TAG Leadership Workshop will be held on Friday, September 25, 2015, at the offices of the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), Arlington, Virginia, in conjunction with the next USNC management meetings.


Code Actions/Standardization TrendsCode Actions/Standardization Trends

Electrotechnical Commission (USNC-IEC). The importance of continuous participation in this forum, at every level, is significantly increasing, but qualified successors for existing representatives are evidently few.

NEMA’s Board of Governors has issued a priority for NEMA’s administration and the Standards and Conformity Assessment Policy Committee (SCAPC) to establish a process to identify, develop, and deploy a sustained succession of qualified NEMA representatives in IEC standards and conformity assessment activities.

what shoUld i do? Support your staff for participation in IEC & USNC.

The Board calls on all NEMA members to support this priority. Our future success in global and domestic markets

The following documents are available at www.nema.org/standards.

• ANSIC12.22-2012American National Standard for Protocol Specification for Interfacing to Data Communication Networks

• ANSIC18.1M,Part1-2015 American National Standard for Portable Primary Cells and Batteries with Aqueous Electrolyte—General and Specifications

• ANSIC78.377-2015 American National Standard for Electric Lamps—Specifications for the Chromaticity of Solid State Lighting (SSL) Products

• ANSI/NEMAFB1-2014 Fittings, Cast Metal Boxes, and Conduit Bodies for Conduit, Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) and Cable

is not assured without a NEMA-wide recommitment to succession and increased investment in the technical resources necessary to participate and lead our increasing role in IEC.

why is this imPoRtant?• International and regional standards

and various systems of conformity assessment are known to be important for foreign market access.

• Increasingly, international standards and conformity assessment systems are influencing domestic market demand and, in some cases, the rules for domestic market access.

• Replication of NEMA’s domestic market success in accessing new and developing global markets depends on sustained investment in direct participation and influence in international and regional standards and conformity assessment practices.

• NEMAABP6-2015 What Is the Purpose of a Molded Case Circuit Breaker?

• NEMAABP7-2015 Engineering Series Ratings: Is It Practical?

• NEMAICS10-2015,Part4 Guide to Application of Low-voltage Automatic Transfer Switch Equipment

• NEMAICS14-2015 Application Guide for Electric Fire Pump Controllers

• NEMALSD73-2015 Energy Savings with Fluorescent and LED Dimming

• The principal forum for participation and influence in international and regional standards and conformity assessment in the U.S. is through the USNC.

NEMA’s success in domestic markets is founded on sustained investment by NEMA association and individual members over many decades. Through direct participation and influence, the result has been an outstanding platform for safety, fluid introduction of new technologies with minimal regulation, strong risk management, and secure investments. ei

KenGettman,InternationalStandardsDirector| [email protected]

• NEMASBP4-2015 Low Frequency Audible Signals

Ű Sustaining NEMA’s Influence in Standards and Conformity AssessmentInvestment (Participation + Influence) = Lower Risk and Faster Speed to Market

NEMA has a long history of providing qualified and respected representatives to the U.S. National Committee of the International

Ű Recently Published Standards


http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/American-National-Standard-for-Protocol-Specification-for-Interfacing-to-Data-Communication-Networks.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/American-National-Standard-for-Portable-Primary-Cells-and-Batteries-with-Aqueous-Electrolyte-General-and-Specifications.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/American-National-Standard-for-Electric-Lamps-Specifications-for-the-Chromaticity-of-Solid-State-Lighting-Products.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/Fittings-Cast-Metal-Boxes-and-Conduit-Bodies-for-Conduit-Electrical-Metallic-Tubing-and-Cable.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/What-is-the-Purpose-of-a-Molded-Case-Circuit-Breaker.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/Engineering-Series-Ratings-Is-It-Practical.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/Guide-to-Application-of-Low-voltage-Automatic-Transfer-Switch-Equipment.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/Guide-to-Application-of-Low-voltage-Automatic-Transfer-Switch-Equipment.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/Application-Guide-for-Electric-Fire-Pump-Controllers.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/Energy-Savings-with-Fluorescent-and-LED-Dimming-.aspx

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/Low-Frequency-Audible-Signals.aspx

International Roundup

The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is a prospective free-trade agreement under negotiation between 12 countries: Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the U.S., and Vietnam. It aims not only to eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade in goods and services among the signatories, but also to develop rigorous rules on cross-cutting issues in international economic relations that have seen little progress or have been entirely absent from past multilateral trade negotiations.

Some research suggests the scale of potential economic benefits might be relatively modest. A widely cited study from the Peterson Institute for International Economics, for example, found that full implementation of the TPP agreement would add an estimated $14 billion to the U.S. economy each year compared with the baseline “no-TPP” scenario. That is equivalent to only about 0.1 percent of GDP.

U.S. exports would increase by about $56 billion, or two percentage points higher than the baseline scenario. Globally, exports in electrical equipment would increase $8.6 billion as a result of the TPP agreement, or 0.5 percentage point higher than the baseline.1

An important reason for the relatively small estimated impact is that the U.S. already has free-trade agreements (FTAs) in place with six of the countries participating in the TPP negotiations: Australia, Canada, Mexico, Peru, Chile, and Singapore. Moreover, the TPP is likely to boost imports to the U.S., which counts as a subtraction from GDP in national income accounting.

NEMA members stand to benefit in

1 www.usitc.gov/research_and_analysis/documents/petri-plummer-zhai%20EWC%20TPP%20WP%20oct11.pdf

many ways from the TPP. U.S. exports to Vietnam, Japan, and Malaysia (TPP nations not covered under an existing FTA), accounted for 4 percent, 2.5 percent, and one percent, respectively, of total electrical equipment exports.

Although a TPP agreement is unlikely to radically change an intra-regional trade pattern established over the past

30 years that favors China and, to a lesser extent South Korea, it might give American electrical manufacturers a competitive advantage over their European counterparts, which currently hold bigger market shares in all three countries than does the United States.

Therefore, finalization of the TPP is a matter of some urgency, as bilateral talks on potential FTAs are ongoing between the European Union (EU) and Vietnam, Japan, and Malaysia.

non-taRiff measUResAt the same time, the TPP addresses numerous non-tariff measures that have rapidly grown in prevalence as protection and regulatory trade instruments, especially in manufacturing. Other

negotiation items that affect NEMA members include provisions on rules of origin (RoO), treatment of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and government procurement (GP) provisions. The RoO provision specifies how much of the content of a product must come from the TPP region in order to qualify for duty-free access; the SOEs provision endeavors to create a level playing field between private companies and SOEs, which often receive preferential treatment from governments through subsidies and low-cost financing; the GP provision seeks

to obligate participating countries to provide national treatment to foreign

suppliers of goods and services for government procurement, which often includes government-owned electrical utilities.

The TPP addresses numerous issues that are widely seen as

crucial for the next wave of global economic integration, notably

technical barriers to trade and regulatory coherence. If concluded, the

TPP would improve market access and help to strengthen the competitiveness of U.S. products in the Asia-Pacific region, enhancing commercial opportunities for U.S. firms to expand their trade and investment in several large and fast-growing markets.

Moreover, the position of the U.S. as the largest economy, by far, in the resulting trading bloc could confer significant advantages in the development of product standards over European and Chinese counterparts. ei

TimGill,DeputyChiefEconomist| [email protected]

YingyingXu,Director,Economics| [email protected]

Ű Electroindustry Benefits of the Trans-Pacific Partnership


Economic SpotlightInternational Roundup

After improving by more than 20 points in July, NEMA’s Electroindustry Business Conditions Index (EBCI) for current conditions in North America declined by 15 points in August to settle at 52.5. Thirty percent of panelists reported conditions improved in August, a decline from 45 percent the previous month. In contrast, 25 percent of panelists claimed the business environment worsened in August, compared to 10 percent in July. In each month, slightly fewer than half (45 percent) the panelists stated that conditions were unchanged.

While the current conditions EBCI, a measure of breadth of change in business conditions across the industry, retreated in August, the companion measure of the mean magnitude of change recorded its second consecutive increase in August, rising to +0.9 from +0.4 the previous month. This rise was due to responses from a small number of panelists expressing a large improvement in the latest month. Panelists are asked to report intensity of change on a scale ranging from –5 (deteriorated significantly) through 0 (unchanged) to +5 (improved significantly).

The EBCI for future North American conditions held steady at 55, following a modest improvement in July. Thirty-five percent of panelists expect business conditions to improve over the next six months, up from 30 percent last month. Still, 25 percent expect them to deteriorate, up from 20 percent in July. Forty percent expect little change in the business environment between now and early 2016.

Visit www.nema.org/ebci for the complete August 2015 report. ei

TimGill,DeputyChiefEconomist| [email protected]

Ű Current Business Conditions Index Retreats in August Following July Surge; Future Conditions Index Holds Steady


http://www.nema.org/ebci

NEMAI AM

Cover, 1: ©iStockphoto.com/DNY5910, 11, 16, 17. 20, 21, 24, 25: ©iStockphoto.com/Mordolff12, 13: ©nishi55/Dollar Photo Club14, 15: ©iStockphoto.com/jdillontoole14, 15: ©iStockphoto.com/Archiwiz15: ©vivat/Dollar Photo Club18: ©Denchik/Dollar Photo Club22, 23: ©iStockphoto.com/almoond34: ©iStockphoto.com/redmal

stocK aRt cRedits

A Trustworthy Source for Business InformationWe are experiencing a new era of globalization and an unprecedented level of interconnectivity among countries through international trade, capital and investment movements, migration of people, and dissemination of knowledge.

For businesses, this globalization process not only represents new ideas and ways of doing business, but also creates greater risks and reduced stability, sometimes even disruption and confusion. To operate and compete effectively in this increasingly complex global environment, it is essential for executives to have a trusted source for facts and insights on which to base their business decisions.

This is where NEMA’s Business Information Service (NEMA BIS), an in-house consulting unit, can help. It not only offers services that a trade association typically provides, including industry data collection and business conditions surveying, but also takes advantage of staff expertise in economic modeling and deep industry knowledge to provide product shipment forecasting, economic impact studies, and macroeconomic and industry outlook analyses.

I am excited to be part of this award-winning team. As an international economist with advanced degrees from China and the U.S., l will focus on preparing the quarterly global macroeconomic outlook, providing timely analysis and commentary on ad hoc economic issues (especially those related to China), and improving the survey methodology and forecasting accuracy for various NEMA models.

My hope is that my econometric expertise and knowledge of manufacturing, combined with my unique perspectives on emerging markets, will add increased value to the services NEMA provides its members.

The October edition of ei will focus on supply chain integrity and real-world applications of standards. With articles spanning electrical and medical arenas, we’ll look at:

• the integration of product data in the supply chain

• the solutions that e-labeling offers to compliance labels

• how development and harmonization of standards opens new markets

• NEMA’s influence in international and regional standards and conformity assessment

• safeguarding diversity in interest categories through consensus

• new directions for global standards publishing

• effects on other countries of harmonization efforts in Mexico

• new developments in specific NEMA standards

There will also be news about the Annual Membership Meeting, regulatory updates, information on Fire Protection Week, and more.

Listen to Maria Marks, National Business Development Manager for Siemens Building Technologies and vice chair of the Fire Life Safety, Security

and Emergency Communications Committee explain why NEMA’s guides and manuals for fire detection, alerting, and signaling are important in the ever-changing fire and life safety industry

This is the first in a series of podcasts covering training manuals and guides for fire alarm, detection, emergency communication, and life safety systems.

The best tools for educating the industry are NEMA standards and guides. Prepared by fire and life safety subject matter experts, they are easy to understand and ideal for designers, installers, code officials, owners, and users of fire and life safety equipment.

Listenat www.nema.org/3SB-podcast-1

Downloaddocumentsat www.nema.org/3SB-manuals

Yingying Xu, PhD, NEMA Director, Economics

Coming in October


We Are NEMA

ExpertLISTEN TO THE

Maria Marks

http://www.nema.org/3SB-podcast-1

http://www.nema.org/3SB-manuals

Follow the Charge »Silicon Valley’s a power hungry place. With new businesses seemingly popping up every day. Power is critical. And should it fail, exceedingly costly.

So when Silicon Valley decided to invest in a new substation, they knew the project demanded thinking that went beyond today. A solution that could power the ever-growing Valley for years to come. No small feat.

Eaton’s Omaha Power Center (OPC) was ready. With an ability to think outside of the box when imagining how the new substation could take shape. And an appreciation for the tremendous responsibility of designing a substation to serve

up to 20% of the utility’s power load.

The technologies, quality products and expertise incorporated into the substation surpass all others. From an arc fl ash protection system that monitors the switchgear to circuit breakers that saved approximately $60,000 while improving quality and performance.

With Eaton, Silicon Valley Power knows their multi-million dollar investment will endure well beyond today. And they’re confi dent they’ll remain the power behind the power thinking the Valley’s renowned for.

Eaton.com/followthecharge©2015 Eaton. All rights reserved.

Energizing Silicon Valley to power the next generation of innovation.

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Functional SafetyVertified

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