Three Reasons to Renew this Year

by Alex Hyatt, National Sales Manager

It’s that time of the year again. Many of you are working around the clock to wrap up jobs before the snow falls, all the while bidding projects for next year. By now, you’ve probably received your annual dues statement from us. For most, making your annual contribution to the association is but a mere formality. But for those still struggling to find a reason to renew this year, here are three great reasons for being a member of MEA and a reminder of how your dues dollars help to support the electrical industry.

Free Continuing Education

A new benefit rolled out this year, every contractor member receives 8 hours of continuing education free, every year. This is a $155 value to be used towards one day of training in a code class or on several online blocks. By taking just 8 hours every year, you’ll stay ahead on your credits, will reduce the amount of time spent in a classroom and never have to scrabble at master renewal time. If you prefer to attend a full 16 hour course every two years, the first day is on us and you pay the difference. For those current on their hours, the 8 hour credit is easily transferable to another employee at your shop. (Applicable to contractor shops only and not for individual memberships).

Free AWAIR Safety Program

Having an AWAIR Safety Program in place is critical to avoiding workplace accidents and hefty fines for violations. MEA’s AWAIR is offered to members in a downloadable format on our website and has been recently updated to contain the new Crystalline Silica Standards.

Free Electrical Safety Talks

Also free to members in a downloadable format on our website. MEA takes the guesswork out of what to incorporate into your safety meetings. Electrical Safety Talks are a series of short, concise, industry specific topics. A sign-in form is included for OSHA documentation. Electrical Safety Talks have been recently updated to contain the new Crystalline Silica Standards.

Other benefits include:

• MEA now has an in-house compliance expert to help you regarding Registered Apprenticeship and Prevailing Wage Compliance
• MEA now has two lobbyists fighting for you and your business at the capitol
• MEA keeps you informed through the MEA News, MEA Alert and Gov. Action Alerts
• MEA has numerous networking opportunities to keep you connected with your peers

So don’t wait to renew. Make your annual contribution to MEA now and include as a write-off on your 2017 tax returns. You can now log in to your account online to pay your dues or enroll in automatic payment. Contact our office at 612-827-6117 for more details.