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04.07.2020

Mike Holt and the 2020 National Electric Code

Late last fall, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) issued their new edition of the National Electric Code, the 2020 NEC. This is the 55th edition of the code book, which is revised every three years*. Once these updates are released, Mike Holt, nationally recognized code expert and educator, and others in the education side of the profession move quickly to publish the latest and greatest books, videos and materials to help educate and train electrical professionals in new and existing code requirements.

In early spring of 2017, I had the privilege of being part of the coveted code panel that Mike pulls together, which is based on the topics and subjects that align with the participants’ expertise. I would never put myself in a line of experts, but Mike did choose me, and I considered myself fortunate to represent Faith Technologies in this role. I was invited back for the 2020 cycle and again was part of the Calculations and Exam Prep panel, which was held in early February. Though there is nothing like leaving Wisconsin in February to spend a week in Orlando, it was again a whirlwind experience and busy work schedule.

We started each morning with a team breakfast, during which we talked about that day’s taping schedule. Once in the studio, we were fitted with microphones and seated together for the taping. I was fortunate to sit next to Brian House and Vincent Della Croce from Siemens, who have become good friends since the taping. Also on the panel was Mario Valdes, an inspector from the Miami area, Boyd Bindrup, an instructor from Utah, and Eric Stromberg, an engineer from New Mexico. While we were taping, the event streamed live and could be seen by special invitation if you logged in and was also cross promoted on Mike Holt’s YouTube channel. During breaks, Mike also answered questions that were posted in the comment section online when possible.

After taping, the team had dinner together, decompressed and talked about the day. Brian issued the next day’s plans and we all went back to our rooms to review them on our own and make notes. We then met later to go over edits and graphics. This would take 1 to 1 ½ hours, which obviously did not allow much time to sightsee or enjoy the warmer Florida weather. We would get up the next day and do it all over again. Yes, it did seem like the movie “Groundhog Day!” Regardless of the hard work that went into this taping, I was very appreciative to be invited back and help Mike with this part of his educational curriculum, which will be available in the early summer of 2020.

In my career I have acquired many friends, colleagues and mentors. I am happy to add Mike Holt and everyone on the panels to my list. Being a good electrician is part knowing your craft, part knowing where to find information when you need it, and finally, part knowing great people to help you along the way. Working for Faith Technologies is very much like this. Working with Mike Holt and the team is one more highlight in my 40-plus year career.

*Check with your local authority having jurisdiction for adoption timelines of the new code book in your area.