2007 Chapter Start Up Kitpdf

Guide to Developing
an IEC Chapter
The information contained in this guide is the property of

the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.
No part of it may be duplicated or used in any form
without written permission of Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.
Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -1-

Guide to Developing
an IEC Chapter
Independent Electrical Contractors

4401 Ford Avenue, Suite 1100
Alexandria, VA 22302
703-549-7351 phone
703-549-7448 fax
www.ieci.org
The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Chapter Start-Up Kit has been developed to assist
you and your peers in establishing an IEC chapter in your area.
Founded by independent or merit shop electrical contractors, IEC and its local chapters provide
members with business management and educational opportunities, apprenticeship and employee
training, legislative representation, and products and services geared to help develop both their
businesses and the industry.
Today more than 3,600 companies and 70 local chapters have joined together as members of IEC
to improve business conditions throughout the country and in the construction industry.
This kit contains outlines and checklists that will guide you through the successful formation of a
local chapter. Additionally, the IEC National Staff is ready to assist you at any time. If you
should have any questions regarding any material throughout this manual, please contact Jamie
DeSimone at 703-549-7351.

Why Form a Local IEC Chapter?
A local IEC chapter is a resource for networking, apprenticeship and training, education,
developing professional opportunities, legislative representation on Federal/State/Local matters,
working closely with suppliers and distributors and strengthening our industry. Interacting
within a non-competitive environment, contractors and associates are able to share information
and learn from each other’s experiences.
IEC Chapters offer….
♦ Management Education Programs
♦ A Nationally Recognized Apprenticeship and Training Program
♦ Increased Political Power
♦ Timely, Industry-related Information
♦ Access to Local, State, and National Resources
The combination of these products and services offers independent electrical contractors the
opportunity to improve their skills, save their companies money and contribute to the
advancement of the electrical industry.

Establishing a Local Chapter
When you begin organizing a local chapter it is no different than setting up a business. It
requires three things:
Planning Organization Commitment
This step by step guide will walk you through the process to insure that your chapter is formed
successfully.
Step One
1. Do an Analysis of your Market – Is there a group of independent electrical contractors

in your area interested in forming an association? Are there already well established
associations in your area, which serve electrical contractors? Could an IEC chapter offer
more or complimentary services?
2. Examine IEC – Does IEC offer the products and services that electrical contractors in
your area are looking for? A basic question to ask is “As an Electrical Contractor,
what keeps you up at night?” If they respond with: 1. Difficulty finding
skilled Electricians and Helpers
2. Difficulty growing their business
3. Increasing their profit margins
4. Slow payments
5. Unfair business practices by the opposition
If these are some of the responses, then proceed!
Step Two
1. Form a Steering Committee – The Steering Committee lays the foundation for the
chapter, establishing its mission, goals, objectives and organizational plan. This Steering
Committee should be a group of Independent Electrical Contractors, minimum of 5, who
are committed to the cause.
2. Establish a mission, goal and objectives – “What do we want to do?” The answer to
this question defines the chapter’s mission and goals. These goals will be your guide
when making important structural decisions concerning the chapter.
3. Chapter Territory – Your chapter’s territory is determined by location. The chapter’s

territory should encompass one or several counties within the area. This is usually a 40
to 50 mile radius. Determine an area that will contain a viable number of contractors.
Using a small map, draw the chapter boundaries and include a copy with your IEC
materials. ***Do not over extend your territory. It is better to have a territory that is

manageable than one in which your members are unreachable. Also please provide a
map of your territory when submitting this packet.
4. Select A Chapter Name – Include IEC and some mention of your geographic location in
your chapter name to reflect your affiliation with the national organization and your local
identity. Example Northwest Indiana IEC
5. Establish a Mailing Address - A steering committee member’s office can serve as the
temporary mailing address for the chapter. A telephone number should also be
determined. Many chapters now have an e-mail address and website as well.
6. Secure initial funds – Request an advance deposit from all steering committee members
for organizing expenses. This advance should be deducted from their initial dues. A
sample pledge from is included in the Appendix for your use. Designate a treasurer to
open a bank account to record receipts and disbursements.
7. Set the fiscal year – IEC National’s fiscal period is January 1 through December 31. All
chapters should have fiscal periods consistent with that of the National Association.
8. Determine the Chapter Dues - Dues are necessary for the chapter to operate. Local IEC
chapters establish their own dues structure and collect an additional amount per member
for the national membership dues. The IEC National dues structure is outlined below.
Dues rates as of 1st quarter 2007. per year

1-5 field employees $210.00
61-100 field employees $1,100.00
101-150 field employees1 $1,400.00
151-200 field employees1 $1,800.00
201+ field employees $2,310.00
Associate Members: $60 per year
Dues for members shall be collected by the chapters, such dues shall be considered due in
accordance with such bylaws, schedules and procedure and shall be invoiced in a timely
manner and promptly collected by each chapter. Dues should be forwarded to the
National office no later than the 15th of the month after the month of collection from the
member, on forms provided by the association.
You should have a good feel for the electrical contractors in your area. If there are
numerous associations meeting some electrical contractors’ needs or if the independent
electrical contractors are predominately small the numbers below may need to be

adjusted. Ultimately, this is the funding level a chapter needs. If it starts under-funded, it
is very difficult to raise the dues level at a further date.
Local chapters may choose one of two types of dues structures (Flat Rate or Sliding
Scale)
Flat Rate – Some IEC Chapters use a flat rate charge. This includes funds for national
dues per member with the remainder retained by the chapter for local operations.
Access to the Apprenticeship & Training Program is usually provided at an additional
charge.
Sliding Scale – Some chapters use a sliding scale, similar to the dues structure that IEC
National uses, wherein members pay a dues rate based on the number of productive
employees the company has.
9. Prepare Chapter Bylaws – The Bylaws set forth the chapter name, rules of operation,
membership eligibility, meetings, officer elections and voting rights. A sample copy of
bylaws is included in the Appendix and is also available electronically.
10. Print Letterhead Stationery – Work with your local printer to create stationery for your
chapter. Camera-ready IEC logos are available from National.
11. Print Membership Applications – You will need membership applications to distribute
at your organizational meetings, include in prospect mailings and for individual recruiting
purposes. Sample membership application is included in the Appendix and also available
on disk.
12. Create A Prospect List – Gather the names, addresses and telephone numbers of
prospective members from your steering committee members, Yellow Pages, State
Inspectors License List or other local trade associations. IEC National can also help you
generate a list. Use your prospect list for inviting potential members to your meetings.
13. Select a Chapter Attorney – Chapter should select and develop a close working
relationship with an attorney. The attorney should be knowledgeable in
construction/labor/contract law. You should consider using an attorney used by one of
the steering committee members. This attorney could also be an associate member.
The chapter attorney should be willing to invest time and effort to the chapter. He/she
should attend chapter meetings, advise the board of directors and officers, and make brief
presentations about legal developments in the construction industry.

Requirements of Starting an IEC Chapter
1. Submit a letter of intent to IEC National Membership Committee.
2. Provide a roster of local chapter members and Board members.
3. Provide a map of the counties in which you are going to serve.
4. Indicate a minimum of 5 contractor members (although we recommend at

least 10 to start off with a viable entity).
5. Provide a copy of your chapter bylaws (sample bylaws provided in

Appendix).
6. Provide a copy of your incorporation papers.
7. Provide payment of at least one quarter’s National dues for each proposed
Contractor or Associate Member.
8. Submit an application fee of $1,000. ($200 is an application processing fee;

the remaining $800 is used as a credit towards a contractor registration at
IEC National events during the 12-month probationary period.)
9. At least one proposed chapter member must be present to submit this packet
to the Membership Committee and Board of the Directors at one of the three
annual National meetings (Leadership Conference, Legislative Conference,
or Annual Convention). Application packages must be submitted to IEC
National at least 30 days prior to the meeting.

Incorporating Your Chapter
IEC strongly urges you to consult your chapter attorney about the tax-exempt status application
and the chapter incorporation procedures. The information contained here is provided as a
general guideline and does not constitute legal advice.
An IEC chapter must be incorporated as a non-profit corporation within the state of its
operation. Please retain legal counsel to ensure that your chapter complies with all appropriate
regulations and receives all the necessary documentation.
Incorporation has several advantages vital to the success of your chapter.
1. Officers and members of an incorporated entity generally are not held personally liable
for any damage arising from an act of the corporation.
2. An incorporated chapter has the legal standing to act for all its membership; therefore
group programs are easier to sponsor.
An IEC Chapter must be incorporated as a non-profit corporation within the state of its
operation. Laws vary from state to state. Retain legal counsel to ensure that your chapter
complies with all appropriate regulations and receives all the necessary documentation.

Tax-Exempt Status
As with incorporation, IEC strongly recommends that you consult your chapter attorney, and/or
have them complete transactions regarding the tax-exempt status application.
Filing – When organized and documented correctly your IEC chapter will be exempt from
federal income tax under section 501 (c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code, which applies to
business leagues, chambers of commerce and other similar organizations, including trade
associations. These forms may be found at your local post office, tax service, or IRS office.
Information Tax Return – If your chapter receives more than $10,000 in a normal year, it must
file an information return with the IRS Service Center on Form 990. The IRS provides copies of
Form 990 with complete instructions. The form must be filed by the 15th day of the 5th month
following the end of the chapter’s fiscal year.

Planning Your First Meeting
Organizing the smallest details well in advance will guarantee that your new chapter will host an
informative and inspiring first meeting. The following task should be addressed prior to your
event:
1. Date, Time, Location – Select a date so that you have time to choose a convenient
location, arrange speakers and send out invitations to prospective members. IEC
recommends no less than three weeks.
2. Invite Prospective Members – Mail a letter of invitation to prospective members

requesting that they attend your meeting. Include the date, location and time of the
meeting. Emphasize in a few words how their participation in your chapter will benefit
their business and the industry as a whole
3. Prepare a Written Agenda – An agenda will help you identify and plan how the
meeting will run and who will participate. In some cases, the IEC National staff or staff
from a neighboring IEC chapter may be available to assist with the content of your
meeting.
Tips on the Chapter Meeting Agenda
a. Welcome – a local contractor or steering committee member should make

Welcoming remarks and introductions. Create a comfortable environment and set your
guest at ease.
b. Testimonial – Have a steering committee member discuss why an IEC chapter is
necessary. Make the discussion interactive. Ask the prospective members what
challenges they face as contractors. Be prepared to illustrate how a local IEC Chapter
will help members with their everyday businesses.
c. Video – Present IEC’s membership video to illustrate the benefits of membership.
d. Provide Refreshments – Providing simple refreshments and beverages helps to
create a comfortable atmosphere.
e. Chapter Structure – Discuss the chapter’s structure and plans for upcoming
programs and events.
f. Questions – Provide time for questions and networking.
g. Ask Guest to Join – Distribute membership application and ask guest to sign them.
h. Announce the next meeting date.

Appendix
Model Chapter Bylaws

Sample Application for IEC Chapter Membership
Sample Firm Profile
Sample New Member Information Form
Sample Letter of Intent
Legal Issues Summary

Model Chapter Bylaws
(chapter name here)
INDEPENDENT ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, INC.
CORPORATE BYLAWS
ARTICLE I - NAME
Section 1. The name of the Association shall be the _______________ Chapter of the Independent
Electrical Contractors, Inc. The initials “IEC” may be used on stationery, emblems,
etc., for brevity.
Section 2. The Board of Directors shall determine the principal office of the Association. The
Association may have such other offices as may be designated by the Board.
ARTICLE II - PURPOSE
The purposes of this Association shall be:
A. To promote the common business interests of those engaged in the electrical construction
industry within the jurisdiction approved by the IEC National Board of Directors.
B. To consider and deal by all lawful means with common problems of management,
distribution, employment and financial functions of the electrical construction industry;
to foster cooperative action in advancing by all lawful means the common purposes of its
members, and promote activities designed to enable the industry to be conducted with the
greatest economy and efficiency.
C. To afford due consideration to and expression of opinion upon questions affecting the
industry and the financial, commercial and industrial interest of the nation, and to
promote the common business interest of the industry.
D. To cooperate with other industries and organizations.
E. To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of foregoing purpose, or

incidental thereto.
F. To encourage and foster safe working practices and conditions for the electrical
construction industry.

ARTICLE III - MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Any person, firm or corporation engaged in the electrical and/or systems construction
industry is eligible to apply for active membership in this Association in one of the
classifications set forth in Section 2 of this Article.
Section 2. Classes of Membership
A. Contractor Member - A contracting company actively engaged in the business of

electrical or systems construction, maintenance, or repair whose business is located
within the confines of the chapter area or in member-at-large territory (areas unclaimed
by any chapter) in accordance with national bylaws. Contractor members are permitted
to vote and their employees may hold chapter office.
B. Associate Member - Any firm whose products and services are aligned or allied to
the electrical contracting business. Associate Membership shall be in the name of the
firm only; shall be without vote, and shall be ineligible to hold office.
C. Honorary Member - Membership awarded by the Board of Directors to any

individual or firm who has rendered meritorious service to the Association in accordance
with national bylaws. Honorary members may not vote and are ineligible to hold office.
Section 3. Terms of Membership
Membership in this Association shall be continuous unless terminated by voluntary

withdrawal as herein provided, or otherwise pursuant to these Bylaws. All rights,
privileges, and interests in the Chapter or to the National Association shall cease on the
termination of membership, after paying any and all dues, assessments, and financial
obligations of the member to the Association and to the Chapter to which he/she belongs.
Such notice shall be presented to the Board of Directors at the next succeeding meeting
of the Board of Directors.
Section 4. Suspension and Expulsion
Any member may be suspended or terminated for cause. Sufficient cause for such
suspension or termination shall be violation of the Bylaws or any lawful rule or practice
duly adopted by the Association, or any other conduct prejudicial to the interest of the
Association. Suspension or expulsion shall be by two-thirds vote of the entire Board of
Directors provided that a statement of the charges shall have been sent by certified or
registered mail to the last recorded address of the company at least twenty (20) days
before final action is taken thereon. This statement shall be accompanied by a notice of
the time and place of the meeting of the Board of Directors at which the charges shall be
considered and the member shall have the opportunity to appear in person and or be
represented by counsel to present any defense to such charges before action is taken
thereon.

ARTICLE IV – OFFICERS
Section 1. The elective officers of the Association shall be President, Vice President, Treasurer and
Secretary. These officers shall be elected annually by the membership at the regular
meeting held at the time of the Association's annual meeting.
Section 2. The executive and administrative officer of the Association shall bear the title of
Executive Director and shall be employed by and upon such terms and conditions as the
Board of Directors shall prescribe. The Executive Director need not be a member of the
Association and shall perform such duties as are assigned to him/her by the Board of
Directors. The Executive Director will have authority to hire and fire chapter staff (if
any) within the budgetary limits set by the Board of Directors.
Section 3. President – The President shall be the principal elective officer of the organization, shall
preside at meetings of the Association and the Board of Directors, and shall be a member
with right to vote on all committees except the nominating committee. It is his
responsibility to appoint all chairmen of committees. The President shall perform all
duties that normally are a part of the office or are delegated to him by the Board of
Directors. The President shall present a proposed budget for the next fiscal year at the
first regular meeting of the fiscal year.
Section 4. Vice President – The Vice President shall assist the President and may be delegated by
the President to perform his duties in the event of his temporary disability or absence
from meetings. The Vice President shall have the primary responsibility to coordinate the
functioning of all committees and other duties as the President or the Board of Directors
may assign. The Vice President may be elected to succeed to the office of President at
the end of the term of the President or should that office become vacant.
Section 5. Secretary – It shall be the Secretary's duty to give notice of and attend all meetings of the
Association, to keep a record of all proceedings, to attest documents and perform such
other duties as are usual for such officials or as may be duly assigned to him.
Section 6. Treasurer – The Treasurer shall keep an account of all money received and expended for
the use of the Association, and shall make disbursements authorized by the Board and
approved by the President and such other officers as the Board may prescribe. The
Treasurer shall see that all sums are deposited in the bank or banks, or trust companies,
approved by the Board of Directors and shall make a report at the annual meeting or
when called upon by the President. Funds may be drawn only upon the signature of
persons approved by the Board.
Section 7. Prior to each Annual Meeting the Board of Directors shall appoint a Nominating
Committee consisting of members of the association and are not members of the Board.
The committee shall advise the Secretary of its nominations for the elected officers and
for candidates to fill vacancies in the Board of Directors, to be voted on at the next annual
meeting, with sufficient time for the Secretary to notify members of such nominations by
written notice and mailed at least thirty day prior to the date of the annual meeting.

Section 8. Each of the elected officers shall be duly sworn in at the annual meeting and shall take
office on January 1 of the year immediately following or until his successor is duly
elected and takes office. Terms of office shall be one year.
Section 9. Vacancies in any office may be filled for the balance of the term thereof by the directors
at any regular or special meeting.
Section 10. Officers as such shall not receive compensation for their service as officers, but the Board
of Directors may, by resolution, authorize reimbursement of expense incurred in the
performance of their duties. Such authorization may prescribe procedures for approval
and payment of such expense by designated officers of the Association.
Section 11. At the direction of the Board of Directors, any officer, employee or agent of the
Association shall furnish, at the expense of the Association, a fidelity bond, in such sum,
as the Board of Directors shall prescribe.
ARTICLE V - COMMITTEES
The President shall annually appoint such standing, special, or subcommittees as may be required by the
Bylaws (Nominating – see Article IV, Section 7.) or as he/she may find necessary.
ARTICLE VI - DUES
Section 1. The Board of Directors shall determine the annual dues for each member of the
Association.
Section 2. The Board of Directors shall recommend dues and assessments for all members. Any
change of the amounts of the same must be approved by a quorum at a meeting of the
Board of Directors at any regular or special meeting or by mail ballot on thirty (30) days
advance notice.
Section 3. Time and Payment of Initiation Fees, Dues and Assessments – The Board of Directors
shall determine the time and payment of initiation fees, dues, and assessments. The
Board of Directors shall also determine when said initiation fees; dues and assessments
are delinquent.
Section 4. Nonpayment of Dues and Assessments – Nonpayment of dues and assessments in

accordance with these Bylaws shall result in termination of membership or revocation of
Charter. The Board of Directors may, at its discretion, however, extend the time for
payment of such dues or assessments, providing proper application are made. The Board
of Directors shall determine when a chartered entity shall be terminated for nonpayment
of dues or assessments.
ARTICLE VII - MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS
Section 1. Regular: There shall be a regular (monthly/quarterly) meeting of the Association ordered
by the Board of Directors. The time and day of the meeting shall be subject to change
according to a vote of the Board of Directors.

Section 2. Annual: There will be an annual meeting of the Association held on a date determined by
the Board of Directors, at which time there will be election of officers. All elected officers
and Directors shall assume office on (date) of the following year.
Section 3. The order of business at meetings shall be as follows:
A. Call to Order
B. Reading/Approval of Minutes from Previous Meeting
C. Reports of Officers
D. Reports of Committees
E. Unfinished Business
F. New Business
G. Election of Officers (annual meeting only)
H. Adjournment
Section 4. The order of business may be altered or suspended at any meeting by a majority vote of
the members present. The usual parliamentary rules as laid down in Robert's Rules of
Order shall govern all deliberations, when not in conflict with these Bylaws.
ARTICLE VIII - BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 1. The Board of Directors shall have supervision, control and direction of the affairs of the
Association, shall determine its policies or changes therein within the limits of the
Bylaws, shall actively prosecute its purposes and shall have discretion in the
disbursement of its funds. It may adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its
business as shall be deemed advisable and may, in the execution of the powers granted,
appoint such agents, as it may consider necessary.
The Board of Directors may, by a two-thirds vote, elect additional members to the Board.
Each such member shall be a Past-President of the Association and his term shall expire
(Date).
Section 2. The Board of Directors shall be composed of the following fully paid members:
All duly-elected officers
The immediate past president
All directors as appointed or elected by voting Chapter members
All Past Presidents as elected by the Board of Directors
Section 3. Quorum – A quorum at a Board of Directors Meeting is a majority of the voting directors
present at the meeting. Any less number may adjourn from time to time until a quorum is
present.
Section 4. Manual of Procedures – The Association shall adopt a Manual of Procedures which shall
establish methods and policies necessary to attain the requirements and objectives of the
Association as outlined in the Bylaws provided such is not in conflict with same.

ARTICLE IX - FISCAL YEAR
The Board of Directors shall determine the fiscal year.
ARTICLE X - INDEMNIFICATION OF OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, AND EMPLOYEES
The Association may, by resolution of the Board of Directors, provide for indemnification by the
Association of any and all directors, officers, or employees or former directors, officers, or employees
against expenses actually and necessarily incurred by them in connection with the defense of any action,
suit or proceeding, in which they or any of them are made parties, or a party, by reason of having been
directors, officers, or employees of the Association, except in relation to matters as to which they shall be
adjudged in such action, suit, or proceeding to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance
of their duties and to such matters as shall be settled by agreement predicated on the existence of such
liability for negligence or misconduct. Indemnification, if granted, shall be limited to acts within the
scope of the duties of one acting on behalf of the Association.
ARTICLE XI - DISSOLUTION
The association shall use its fund only to accomplish the objectives and purposes specified in these
bylaws, and no part of said funds shall inure, or be distributed, to the members of the association. On
dissolution of the association any funds remaining shall be distributed to one or more regularly organized
and qualified charitable, educational, scientific, or philanthropic organizations to be selected by the Board
of Directors.
ARTICLE XII - AMENDMENTS
Upon recommendation by the Board of Directors, these Bylaws may be amended, repealed, or altered, in
whole or in part, by a majority vote in accordance with the provisions of Article V of the Bylaws at any
meeting of the Association, or by a majority of those eligible (voting) members voting by mail ballot,
provided that a copy of any amendment proposed for consideration shall be mailed to the last recorded
address of each member at least thirty (30) days prior to the date of the meeting.

Independent Electrical Contractors
Application for Contractor Membership
<Chapter Name>
Company:
Contact Name:
Address:
City: State: Zip:
Phone: Fax:
E-mail: Website:
Contractor Member: Number of Field Employees ________

CONTRACTOR DUES* – Based on number of Field Employees (electricians, journeymen, apprentices, estimators, etc.)
per quarter per year
Category 1: 1-5 field employees $ $
Category 8: 201+ field employees (max) $ $
*Membership dues cover contractor membership in both the chapter and the national organizations. By joining IEC you are
giving permission for us to contact you via email and fax to deliver up-to-date member benefits.
Payment of dues for at least the initial quarter of membership is required with application.
Application & Dues Received Nov 1–Jan 31 > Membership Effective 1st Quarter (Jan-Mar)
Application & Dues Received Feb 1–Apr 30 > Membership Effective 2nd Quarter (Apr-Jun)
Application & Dues Received May 1–Jul 31 > Membership Effective 3rd Quarter (Jul -Sep)
Application & Dues Received Aug 1–Oct 31 > Membership Effective 4th Quarter (Oct-Dec)
<fill in>% of membership dues is allocated for lobbying activities and is therefore non-deductible
as a business expense for federal income tax purposes in 2006. (Subject to change.) [IRC 162(e) and 6033(e)].
PAYMENT:
A check payable to <chapter name> is enclosed.
Please charge my Visa Card #: _______________________________________________
Amount: $________ MasterCard Exp. Date: ___________ Name on Card ___________________
AmEx Billing Address __________________ Billing Zip Code ________
Signature: ____________________________________________
By signing this form, I agree to the terms of membership and to upholding the IEC Code of Ethics.
Name ________________________________ License # ________________________________
Signature:_______________________________________ Date: _______________________
IEC accepts members regardless of race, creed, sex, color, physical disability, and national or ethnic origin.
<Chapter name • address • city, state zip • phone • website>
Sample Firm Profile Form
Year Founded: __________________ Number of Employees: ________
Parent Company (if applicable): ________________________________________________
Subsidiary Companies (if Applicable): _____________________________________________
Please complete this entire section:

Which Classification best describes your firm? Circle all that apply:
Residential Contractor
Commercial Contractor
Industrial Contractor
Service
Data/Telecommunications (Limited Energy)
High Voltage Power
Security
Life Safety
What percent of your firm’s work is for the Public Sector_________% Private Sector
__________%
What percentage of your firm’s work is Local _________ % Regional ________ %

National __________% International __________%
Major markets for the firm’s work are; and percentage your firm does? Mark all that apply:
Residential ________% Commercial ________% Light Industrial _______%

Heavy Industrial _______% Low Voltage _______% High Voltage _______%
Service ________ % Rehab _________% New Construction ________%
Pre-Fab ________% Utility _________% Other (please specify) ______%
Do you qualify as an 8A (Minority) Business Yes No
What is your Current Annual Volume? ________________________________
Do you provide Engineering Services? ________________________________

Attestation
The Firm hereby makes application for membership in the IEC and certifies that the foregoing
statements are correct; that it will be governed by the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of
this IEC Chapter.
In becoming a member of IEC, I/we agree to support the IEC in its mission.
___________________________________________________________
Attest (Signature) Title
___________________________________________________________
Name (Printed) Date
Tax Implications of Membership: 11.05% of your total national dues is used for lobbying
expenses and therefore non-deductible as a business expense for Federal Income Tax purposes.

TELL ME MORE!
I’d like more information about IEC.
Check the boxes as appropriate and mail or fax <XXX>.
Or visit our website at <XXX>.
Please provide contact information corrections/additions:

«Company_Name»
«Address_1»
«City», «State_» «Zip»
Phone: «Phone» Fax: «Fax»

Contact Name: _________________________________________________________________
Email: ________________________________________________________________________
Website: ______________________________________________________________________
Company Size (number of field employees):
1-5 6-10 11-20 21-60 61-100 101 or more
Specialization(s): residential commercial industrial service

VDV other
_______________________________________________________________
I’d like more information about becoming an IEC member – please mail me an informational
package with the costs and benefits of membership.
I’d like information about the next <chapter name> informational meeting.
I’d like a member of <chapter name> to contact me.
I’d like information about the IEC National Convention, October 24-27, Houston, Texas.
I have no interest in IEC at this time. Please remove me from your mailing list.
Please list any comments and/or special requests below:
PLEASE RETURN TO:

<Chapter Name>
<Address>
<Phone>
<Fax Email website>
13 Prospect Data Collection Form

Sample Letter of Intent
Membership Committee
IEC National
4401 Ford Ave., Ste. 1100
Alexandria, VA 22302
Dear IEC National:
The purpose of this letter of intent is to request recognition as an official IEC chapter.
The proposed chapter will be based in the ________________________ area of
___________________ (state) with jurisdiction over the counties of
________________________________________________________________________ .
There are currently _______member companies that will form the chapter. A list is attached.
The proposed name of the chapter will be ______________________________________.
The proposed initial officers of the chapter are:
President ____________________________________________________
Vice President ________________________________________________
Secretary ____________________________________________________
Treasurer ____________________________________________________
I have attached the documentation required for certification of a new IEC chapter. Our members
have made a commitment to starting and operating this new chapter and we request certification
from the IEC National Board of Directors.
Respectfully,
__________________________
Proposed Chapter President

Chapter Legal Issues Summary
The tax-exempt status granted to nonprofit associations is given with the understanding that the
association will benefit a specific trade or industry or the public at large.
When the government granted this tax-exempt status it was with the understanding that membership
would be open to all interested parties that quality under the articles of incorporation and the bylaws of
the association.
Depending on the association and the benefits provided, membership could become a right, not a
privilege, if it provides economic or political advantage to its members.
In some cases, if membership is denied without a legitimate business reason it may be an antitrust
violation. “Reasonable” criteria for membership are:
• That members engage in a particular trade or business
• That members are located in a specific geographical area
• That members pay dues
If an applicant is eligible for membership but there is a consensus that membership should not be
permitted, the association should consult legal counsel to assess the risks associated with such denial.
If members derive a business advantage of either a commercial or professional nature then it could be
considered restraint of trade to deny membership to a company or individual who meets the requirements
of membership.
Membership in an association may be restricted to persons or companies in the same trade, profession or
industry, and those willing to agree to the stated goals and objectives in the association charter and
bylaws.
It is also wise and prudent to outline the dues requirements and credit history required of members, and to
restrict membership for those not willing to pay dues in a timely fashion or whose credit history makes it
unlikely they will meet their obligations.
Members should never blackball a prospective member for personal or discriminatory reasons.
The more the membership is worth to a trade or profession, the more important not to restrict its
availability to others.
Unless there is an overriding, compelling reason, even nonmembers should be able to receive goods or
services from these tax-exempt entities. However:
• You do not have to solicit non-member participations; and
• You may charge a higher fee for services to nonmembers
It is also considered antitrust violation to require membership in another organization in order to obtain
membership in the association being applied to, with some exceptions for local, state and national
affiliations of the same association.

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Guide to Developing

The information contained in this guide is the property of

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -1-

Independent Electrical Contractors

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -2-

IEC Chapters offer….

♦ Management Education Programs

♦ A Nationally Recognized Apprenticeship and Training Program

♦ Increased Political Power

♦ Timely, Industry-related Information

♦ Access to Local, State, and National Resources

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -3-

Planning Organization Commitment

1. Do an Analysis of your Market – Is there a group of independent electrical contractors

If these are some of the responses, then proceed!

3. Chapter Territory – Your chapter’s territory is determined by location. The chapter’s

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -4-

Dues rates as of 1st quarter 2007. per year

Associate Members: $60 per year

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -5-

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -6-

1. Submit a letter of intent to IEC National Membership Committee.

2. Provide a roster of local chapter members and Board members.

3. Provide a map of the counties in which you are going to serve.

4. Indicate a minimum of 5 contractor members (although we recommend at

5. Provide a copy of your chapter bylaws (sample bylaws provided in

6. Provide a copy of your incorporation papers.

8. Submit an application fee of $1,000. ($200 is an application processing fee;

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -7-

Incorporation has several advantages vital to the success of your chapter.

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -8-

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -9-

2. Invite Prospective Members – Mail a letter of invitation to prospective members

Tips on the Chapter Meeting Agenda

a. Welcome – a local contractor or steering committee member should make

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -10-

Model Chapter Bylaws

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -11-

INDEPENDENT ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, INC.

The purposes of this Association shall be:

D. To cooperate with other industries and organizations.

E. To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of foregoing purpose, or

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -12-

Section 2. Classes of Membership

A. Contractor Member - A contracting company actively engaged in the business of

C. Honorary Member - Membership awarded by the Board of Directors to any

Section 3. Terms of Membership

Membership in this Association shall be continuous unless terminated by voluntary

Section 4. Suspension and Expulsion

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -13-

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -14-

Section 4. Nonpayment of Dues and Assessments – Nonpayment of dues and assessments in

ARTICLE VII - MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -15-

Section 3. The order of business at meetings shall be as follows:

ARTICLE VIII - BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -16-

The Board of Directors shall determine the fiscal year.

ARTICLE X - INDEMNIFICATION OF OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, AND EMPLOYEES

ARTICLE XII - AMENDMENTS

Guide to Forming an IEC Chapter (April 2007) -17-

City: State: Zip:

Contractor Member: Number of Field Employees ________

Name License #

Signature:_________________ Date: _

Year Founded: __________ Number of Employees:

What percentage of your firm’s work is Local _ % Regional %

Residential __% Commercial % Light Industrial _%

1-5 6-10 11-20 21-60 61-100 101 or more

Specialization(s): residential commercial industrial service