Special to the Enquirer

Cerrowire was the official wire provider for the 2021 IDEAL National Championship Series in Nashville, Tenn., Dec. 15-17, 2021.

The high-energy electrical skills competition was a culmination of qualifying rounds held across the U.S. throughout 2021. Finals week saw electrical trade professionals and students/apprentices compete for their chance to win championship titles and their share of more than $600,000 in cash and prizes, in addition to earning the distinction of being one of the world’s elite electricians.

Family-owned IDEAL Electrical developed the program in 2016 to highlight professional trades as rewarding career paths. The championship series showcases the essential skills and expertise of the trades and their contributions through the ongoing U.S. skilled labor shortage.

Cerrowire President Stewart Smallwood said he saw the sponsorship as a natural fit for the copper wire manufacturing company. “Ongoing training and workplace skills are key for employee development here at Cerrowire,” he said. “The IDEAL Championship Series is an innovative way to develop and celebrate skilled trades in America. The best part was seeing families and friends cheering for the men and women as they raced the clock.”

Of the more than 32,000 electricians who competed across the U.S. in preliminary rounds over the past year, 142 made it to the national championship in Nashville. Ten electricians came out on top in the apprentice, pro and team competitions. Prizes ranged from $20,000-60,000.

The competition will air on Fox Sports in February. The 2022 IDEAL National Championship will be held in early November in Tampa, Fla.