The Northwestern Section meeting of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors held in Portland, Oregon at the Red Lion Jantzen Beach, September 15th through the 18th was a complete success. Over one hundred and ninety electrical inspectors, contractors, electricians, and engineers were in attendance. Also, with 30 vendors participating in the event, attendees were introduced to new products and methods available on the market for electrical installations.

The meeting was opened Monday morning with a welcoming speech by Paul Scarlett, Director of the Bureau of Development Services. Paul's remarks on the City's permitting and inspection processes were well received by the attendees. Paul discussed additional topics relating to green and sustainable buildings, the city's growth and vision for the future through outreach with the citizens of Portland and implementation of State programs on energy conservation and sustainability. At the completion of his presentation, Paul and City of Portland were presented with a plaque for over 40 years of continuous membership and support of the IAEI, by James Carpenter, CEO of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors.

Numerous educational paths for attendees were offered at this Section meeting. The theme of the educational program was focused on renewable energy resources, such as, wind generation, solar-photovoltaic and fuel cells. Additional courses included NFPA Electrical Inspection Manual, 2008 NEC Code change, Hazardous Locations, and Rooftop Conduit and NM Cable Derating. 2011 National Electric Code code proposals were reviewed and forwarded on to the International office and the Codes and Standards panel for sponsoring to NFPA for the 2011 code cycle.

The business meeting showed that the Northwestern Section is operating in the black with additional revenues expected from educational offerings and the 2008 Section meeting. Election of officers was conducted with no contested positions, and inspector members passed the slate of candidates by acclimation. The one major change to the officer list was the resignation of Joe Andre as Northwestern Section secretary. Jim Imlah, of the City of Hillsboro, was nominated and elected to fill that position. Chuck Mello of UL and a member the city's electrical appeals board, retained his candidacy for the International Executive Board member and Dave Hill of the city's commercial electrical inspections, retained his candidacy for International Board representative of the Northwestern Section.

A great deal of work and effort went into putting on this meeting. Many thanks to the IAEI's vendors and supporters is due. Also, a huge thank you to the IAEI instructors who participated in the educational programs and to Paul Scarlett as the keynote speaker. And of course, the biggest thanks to the citizens of Portland who welcomed the IAEI Northwestern Section meeting and its attendees with open arms and showed just how livable the city is.