Advocating for Our Industry
The Oregon-Columbia Chapter of NECA is the voice of the electrical construction industry in the halls of government. Our members build and power the future of our communities, and we work every day to ensure that their priorities are represented at the federal, state, and local levels.


Federal
NECA gives contractors a seat at the table in Washington, D.C., making sure our industry’s voice is heard and helping shape the national policies that define its future.
Federal Advocacy — NECA National
Through NECA National, our members are represented in Washington, D.C., on issues critical to the success of the electrical contracting industry nationwide.
Federal advocacy efforts focus on:
- Infrastructure investment and long-term funding for electrical grid modernization.
- Energy policy that supports renewables, electrification, and emerging technologies.
- Workforce development and investment in skilled trades.
- Tax policy and regulatory reform that helps contractors remain competitive and sustainable.
Oregon-Columbia NECA members also participate in NECA National’s Annual Legislative Conference, joining contractors from across the country to meet with Congress and advocate directly for the industry.
State
In Salem, NECA ensures the electrical contracting industry is fully represented in decisions that influence Oregon’s economy, workforce, and long-term growth across the state.

State of Oregon Advocacy
At the state level, we work with lawmakers and regulators in Salem to protect and grow the electrical construction industry.
Our priorities include:
- Advocating for investment in energy infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
- Ensuring policies that strengthen apprenticeship and workforce training programs.
- Supporting legislation that fosters fair competition and enforcement of licensing standards.
- Promoting safety, innovation, and sustainability in Oregon’s construction marketplace.
The Oregon-Columbia Chapter partners with allied organizations, labor, and industry groups to shape smart policies that benefit both our members and the communities they serve.

Local
Strong communities start with strong partnerships, and NECA works with local leaders to keep contractors connected to the conversations and decisions that shape our region’s future.
Local Advocacy — City of Portland, Multnomah-Washington-Clark Counties & Beyond
At the state level, we work with lawmakers and regulators in Salem to protect and grow the electrical construction industry.
Our priorities include:
- Advocating for investment in energy infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
- Ensuring policies that strengthen apprenticeship and workforce training programs.
- Supporting legislation that fosters fair competition and enforcement of licensing standards.
- Promoting safety, innovation, and sustainability in Oregon’s construction marketplace.
The Oregon-Columbia Chapter partners with allied organizations, labor, and industry groups to shape smart policies that benefit both our members and the communities they serve.
Support awareness during Construction Suicide Prevention Week, September 8–12
Find additional resources anytime through the NECA-IBEW Mental Health and Wellness Hub.