Spark’n Conversations
Spark’n Conversations
Electrical Association
Industry experts sit with Master Electrician, and Electrical Association Director of Education, Mike Miller about trends and challenges facing contractors, talking shop, and everything needed to keep electricians in-the-know.
Episode 54 - Code Talk: The 2026 NEC w/ Ryan Jackson, Ryan Jackson Electrical Training
Join Mike Miller and Ryan Jackson, a nationally recognized code panelist and educator, for a focused review of the 2026 NEC revisions. Ryan provides an informed perspective on the decision‑making behind recent changes and offers a forward‑looking view on emerging influences, including AI, NFPA direction, and broader industry developments.
Aug 6
50 min
Episode 53 - Understanding the 2026 NEC Arc Flash Labeling Requirements w/ Mike Miller, Electrical Association Curriculum & Instructor Manager
Join Mike Miller as he breaks down practical solutions, clears up common questions, and addresses some code changes that may impact the industry. This episode delivers clear, timely insight to help you navigate the updates with clarity.
Jul 8
30 min
Episode 52: Aluminum Wiring: A Smart Alternative in Today's Market w/ Vinny Mergens, Priority Wire & Cable
Aluminum wire is gaining attention as copper prices and availability tighten. Join our conversation with Vinny Mergens of Priority Wire & Cable as he walks Mike Miller through the technical and financial advantages of aluminum in today’s market. With demand pressures rising, these strategies offer timely guidance for anyone navigating the volatile conductor landscape.   You can learn more about Priority Wire & Cable on their website:  https://www.prioritywire.com/
Jun 5
32 min
Episode 51 - 2026 NEC Code Changes: What You Need to Know w/ Dean Hunter
The Electrical Association is proud to share key updates from the 2026 National Electrical Code. In this episode, Mr. Dean Hunter, Minnesota’s Chief Electrical Inspector, joins Mike to discuss key revisions that may impact your wiring practices. Listen now!    Stay up to date on the 2026 NEC code changes and provide your feedback through the MN DLI website:  https://www.dli.mn.gov/about-department/boards-and-councils/nec-2026-adoption-review-committee   You can contact Dean via email at: [email protected]
May 6
1 hr
Episode 50 - AI Explained: What It Is, What It Can Do, and What to Watch For w/ Woody Taylor, Paramis.ai
Mike sits down with AI expert Mr. Woody Taylor to better understand how artificial intelligence works, its powerful promise, and the smart safeguards every user should know. Don’t miss this engaging and informative conversation—available from the Electrical Association wherever you get your podcasts.   For more information, please visit Woody's website:  https://paramis.ai/
Apr 6
44 min
Episode 49 - The Economic Outlook for Electrical Contractors w/ Erick Garcia Luna, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis
On this episode of Sparkin Conversations, host Mike Miller sits down with Erick Garcia Luna of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis for a clear‑eyed look at the economic forces shaping the electrical industry. From labor shortages to interest rates, tariffs, construction trends, and the future impact of AI, Erick breaks down what contractors need to know as they plan for the season ahead. It’s a grounded, insightful conversation that helps electrical professionals understand where the economy is heading—and how to position their businesses for success.
Mar 9
34 min
Episode 48 - From I-9 Compliance to HSI Visits: What Every Employer Needs to Know w/ Martin Kappenman & Francis Rojas and
The Electrical Association is pleased to present one of our standout podcast episodes featuring Martin Kappenman and Frances Rojas of Peters & Kappenman, PA in Minneapolis. This dynamic conversation takes us from the fundamentals of properly completing an I‑9 to understanding how to respond if Homeland Security Investigations visits your business. You’ll hear clear guidance on what to do—and what to avoid—during one of the more adrenaline‑charged moments of doing business in Minnesota. This is a podcast you won’t want to miss, delivered by experts with deep experience representing employers across the Midwest
Feb 16
39 min
Episode 47 - Fluorescent Lighting Ban w/ Mark Rader, CEE
The Clean Lighting bill is reshaping Minnesota’s lighting landscape by reducing hazardous waste, mercury pollution, and carbon emissions. Effective January 1, 2026, the sale and distribution of pin-based linear and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) will be prohibited. In this episode, Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) Lighting Consultant Mark Rader joins Mike to break down the fluorescent lighting ban and explore what comes next for the Minnesota lighting market.   You can learn more by going to the Center for Energy & Environment's website: https://www.mncee.org/minnesota-fluorescent-ban-what-commercial-building-operators-need-know
Jan 15
28 min
Episode 46 - Subcontractor Liability w/ Jordy Christian, Federated Insurance
With a partnership spanning more than 60 years, the Electrical Association and Federated Insurance come together as host Mike Miller and Regional Marketing Manager Jordy Christian discuss best practices for limiting liability and protecting your business when working with subcontractors in the electrical field.   After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Federated Insurance website:  https://www.federatedinsurance.com/
Dec 16, 2025
39 min
Episode 45 - Man Up Club w/ Mariaha Dean, EDEN Resources
Our host, Mike Miller, sits down with Mariaha Dean to discuss how The Man Up Club empowers young Black males through mentorship, brotherhood, and honest conversations about life’s challenges—helping them build confidence and prepare for college, trade school, and life beyond high school.   You can find more information about the Man Up Club on their website: https://www.themanupclub.org/
Nov 21, 2025
27 min
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