Innovation Overload

“These events are so much more than just booths and classes—they’re about the conversations, the connections, and the energy that push our industry forward.”

Tune in to the Contractor Takeover edition of the Innovation Overload podcast, hosted by Jared Chrisman and Sean Lazarian, with special guest Steve Swain, Project Manager at Swain Electric. This episode spotlights the NECA Convention, showcasing why it’s essential for electrical contractors and industry innovators. Go beyond the booths and classes as the hosts and guest reveal NECA’s true value: networking, exchanging ideas, and a collaborative spirit that drives progress—plus practical tools and cutting-edge technology shaping the future of the industry.

"Innovation in terms of our industry is crucial.  If you are not willing to adapt and learn new things, then you will get passed very quickly."  On this episode of the Innovation Overload podcast, we will hear from Max Gallaway, VP,  Max Electric, as he discusses the best practices for supply disruption, innovation, and preparing your business for the future.

“It’s great to see the industry introduce and expose some of these technologies — it gets people excited about where we’re headed.”

Eric Smith, president of the Penn State NECA Student Chapter, joins Innovation Overload: Contractor Takeover Edition hosts Jared Christman of Big State Electric and Sean Lazarian of ESSCO to represent his team, winners of the 2025 Electrical Contractor Innovation Challenge. Tune in to hear how Eric’s team and other NECA Student Chapters are leveraging creativity, technology, and collaboration to solve real-world challenges, explore emerging innovations, and develop into the professionals and future leaders the industry needs.

"It's ok to be afraid.  It's not ok to do nothing with it." In this installment of the Innovation Overload podcast, we learn about exploring groundbreaking technologies from Leah Mack, Project Manager at Allison-Smith Company.  Leah discusses the industry's evolution and what's to come.  Plug in and stay ahead with insights that spark real change.

"It’s like a shopping mall full of construction tools and services." In this Contractor Takeover edition of Innovation Overload, hosts Jared Chrisman and Shawn Lazarian preview the upcoming NECA Convention & Trade Show and unpack the tech trends shaping the future of the electrical industry. From AI-powered workflows to VR productivity tools and smart safety gear, they explore how innovation is evolving at a rapid pace—and how these trends will be front and center at the convention.  Listen now and stay ahead of the curve!

"Don't sit in the palace, but get outside and walk the grounds." In this latest episode of Innovation Overload, General Ron Bailey will share insights on the critical role leadership plays in driving innovation. 

"Innovation isn’t just about new ideas—it’s about creating value where others haven’t looked yet." 

In this episode of Innovation Overload: Contractor Takeover Edition, Gilbert Coronado, Account Executive at NavVis, dives deep into the world of reality capture and scanning technology. Drawing from his experience leading high-speed scanning initiatives on complex projects, Gilbert shares how SLAM-based LiDAR systems are transforming the way contractors capture, process, and apply spatial data.

From handheld devices to cloud-based workflows, this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about innovative jobsite documentation and digital construction tools.

"I think change is inevitable. If we don't change, we're going to be left behind, especially in the world that we're in right now."  In this episode, hosts Andy Sellers, Management Executive at Quality Electric, and Phil Matthews, Vice President of Operations Support at O'Connell Electric, sit down with Michael Parkes, President and COO at O'Connell Electric. Together, they explore how the electrical industry is adapting to rapid technological change—from AI and automation to workforce development and leadership. Along the way, they share powerful stories of innovation, legacy, and the bold decisions that have shaped their companies. It’s a forward-thinking conversation filled with real-world insights and strategies for staying ahead in a fast-moving industry.

“We just bit this elephant off and kept chunking it—one piece at a time.” In this episode of Innovation Overload, Contractor Takeover, hosts Jared and Sean welcome Aaron Graven, Senior Virtual Construction Engineer, and Brian Dilley, Director of Construction Services at Lake Erie Electric. Together, they explore how this established electrical contractor is embracing innovation through advanced BIM workflows and a hands-on approach to prefabrication.  Packed with practical insights, proven strategies, and a lot of fun—this is one you won’t want to miss. Want more? Catch the extended cut at sparkys-soapbox.com for even deeper insights and behind-the-scenes details.     

"I encourage everyone as a call to action to stay engaged not only with your companies but also with your peers in the industry. We can achieve much more together than we can alone." In this episode of the Innovation Overload Podcast, Todd Grossweiler from the Allison-Smith Company and Eric Spaeth from The Brandt Companies discuss strategies for doing more with less.