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I was recently at a high level discussion listening to several tradeswomen speak about their experiences working in a field dominated largely by men (5% of the trades workforce is made up of women in Canada).

When it comes to automation and its associated fields debate certainly remains as to its future direction, as well as the subsequent affects it will have on the workforce. However, there is consensus that education and cross-sector co-operation will be key factors to maximize that innovative potential.

Two major things have happened to Canada recently, which I can’t help thinking are indications of our lack of preparedness for what is happening in the world around us. There is some evidence of a plan, but we as Canadians have never really had a good discussion about the impacts.

Employment Gains Employment rose nationally by 94,000 in November, driven by gains in full-time work. The unemployment rate decreased 0.2 percentage points to 5.6%, the lowest since comparable data became available in 1976.

Building Permits Canadian municipalities issued $8.1 billion worth of building permits in October, edging down 0.2% from September. The decrease was mainly attributable to lower construction intentions for industrial and institutional buildings.

In setting growth plans for the coming year, one should ask, “What percentage of my customers might go away?” Some will go out of business and they stop buying.

Quick — name two words which, when frequently used by waiters and waitresses, increases tips by 12%. (Hint: it’s not please or thank you).

The stigma behind dealing with contractors has forever been “they are a tough group to build a relationship with” and figuring out the best approach to growing business with them.

The Transformer industry is a vital component of our electrical system. Transformers allow the efficient transmission and distribution of power across grids, providing society with safe and reliable access to electricity.

Manufacturing Sales Total investment in building construction increased 0.3% from August to $14.5 billion in September. Gains for the month were driven by growth in investment in the residential sector (+0.4% to $10.0 billion), while investment in non-residential building construction remained unchanged at $4.5 billion.

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Weighing the Costs and Benefits of Technology

By Taylor Gerrie

Technology is our greatest ally and accomplishment, but do the costs outweigh the benefits? In my opinion, they absolutely do! As consumers we use technology in almost everything we do. We use it for entertainment when we watch television, we use it to control the temperature in our homes, we use it when driving to destinations we have never been to. Technology has made our lives so much more convenient and efficient. Technology has brought out these benefits in the workplace as well. This technological phenomenon has also had a huge impact in the electrical industry.

NEMA and ISA Working Together on New Building Systems Cybersecurity Program

Cybersecurity During a recent Industrial Control Systems Joint Working Group meeting, representatives from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and International Society of Automation (ISA) outlined a new program to address the growing risk of unprotected and under-protected building control systems in the U.S. and abroad.

Building owners, users, and manufacturers of control systems continuously work to find practical ways to create safe and more secure environments.

The Numbers Are In and We Are Behind!

By Carol McGlogan

No one likes to hear that they are behind. And that is exactly what the results are when it comes to diversity within Electro-Federation Canada’s membership. Most within our industry already know this, but does everyone understand what the impact could be on our businesses? There are many studies and reports that show that diversity improves competitiveness. A study by McKinsey shows that top quartile performance in diversity yields between 15% and 35% improvements in profit.

The Future of the Electrical Industry

By Kim Quelch

What a great conference that Electro-Federation Canada (EFC) has put on once again this year in beautiful Quebec City. We as YPNs (Young Professionals Network) had the opportunity to take part in the proceedings with a panel discussion centred on the future of the electrical industry. Three members from EFC’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) participated in this panel discussion a few weeks ago (Dave Branscombe, Independent Electric; Lori Bagazzoli, Viscor; and Jonathan Perlis, Standard-Stanpro and Chair of Quebec Region’s YPN committee).

Aztec Electrical Supply

Aztec Electrical Supply is one of the most dynamic, fastest growing electrical and automation distributors in Canada. The supplier has four Ontario locations, in Concord, Cambridge, Burlington and Mississauga.

They specialize in supplying quality automation and electrical products to electrical contractors, manufacturing plants, OEMs and custom machine builders. Their comprehensive inventory includes electrical and pneumatic products for breakdowns and emergencies, as well as everyday contractor and MRO requirements. They also work closely with their partners to source specialty products that may be required for major projects.

Phoenix Contact appoints new General Manager for ...

Phoenix Contact Canada is pleased to announce that Roger Hallett has accepted the position of ...

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