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.

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

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