This year’s Southern Region Convention was set on 40 acres of the tropical gardens at Wailea Resort bordering Wailea Beach, the Wailea Blue Golf Course and 6 miles from Ahihi Kinua Natural Area Reserve.

The Kansas Chapter, NECA had 13 members and their families attend resulting in a grand total of 39 people attending the convention. Kansas was one of the highest represented areas at the Convention. Members who attended had the opportunity to hear reports on the general health and direction of the electrical contracting industry. Updates from the Electrical Training Alliance, NECA Safety, Government Affairs, and Conventions were provided. A session was held for members who are preparing to sell or transition their business to new ownerships. The pitfalls and opportunities during this process were covered at length.

Guests at the Southern Region Convention even had a rare opportunity to hear from Major Brian Shul, retired United States Airforce Pilot. Major Schul is one of only 93 men who will ever have the claim of piloting the SR-71 “Blackbird.” The Major shared stories and breathtaking photographs of his time in the pilot’s seat of the fastest jet ever built.

The Convention closed with a Luau on the beach. Southern Region Convention offers a great balance of education and entertainment for NECA members as it is held desirable travel destinations. We encourage you to talk with the Chapter’s Executive Director about attending the next Southern Region Convention or any NECA event.