Colleen Beaty

Every March, the American Ladder Institute (ALI) organizes National Ladder Safety Month to promote the safe use of ladders both at home and in the workplace and decrease injuries and fatalities caused by ladder misuse. First held in 2016, 2026 marks the tenth year of this safety-focused awareness campaign.

The NECA Project Excellence Awards showcase the remarkable work NECA members have performed throughout the year. Every year, members are welcome to submit projects they accomplished in the last year and receive recognition for their work and ingenuity. This year, there were 17 winners. The competition considers 13 categories based on the type of project and its dollar value.

Last night, NECA 2025 Chicago officially kicked off at the opening reception at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. This year’s event was inspired by the 1893 World Columbian Exposition in Chicago (also called the 1893 World’s Fair), which was one of the first expositions to successfully feature the use of electricity, as well as the glamor of the Roaring ‘20s. Guests were greeted at the entrance by a rousing performance by an illuminated drum corps.