Although NETCO is a young organization, it builds on a long-standing tradition of IBEW-CECA collaboration to advance workforce skills development and to capture emerging markets. To date, NETCO moved decisively to enhance the electrical industry’s focus on human resources issues linked to national standards, apprenticeship and ongoing journeyperson skills training. As a result, NETCO currently offers a suite of Human Resource Tools & Products to electrical trades trainers free of charge. The commitment inherent in our slogan—Connecting the Electrical Industry— resulted in NETCO sponsoring several national training symposia.

In 2008 NETCO continued its core work of developing new products and promoting networking and best practices among electrical industry training professionals across Canada. For example, in March 2008 NETCO embarked on a 21-month pilot project that will result in an on-line numeracy assessment tool and an inventory of related training resources. In August 2008, NETCO successfully sponsored the 1st Annual Canadian Meeting of Training Directors.

In 2008 NETCO also began activating its mandate to serve as a national voice on public policy issues for electrical contractors, electrical apprentices and journeypersons in every province and territory. It researched and developed a draft policy document which is in the process of being finalized. This groundwork will assist NETCO in making representations to government on behalf of the entire industry on national topics of concern.

We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the many people who support NETCO by volunteering their talent and time. In particular, the dedication and hard work of NETCO’s Board of Directors, Project Steering Committee and ad hoc Working Committees are greatly appreciated.