2020 is right around the corner, and in the last year, our industry has seen countless technological advances, pushes for sustainability and diversity, and increasing importance placed on streamlined supply chains.
From new technologies in lighting to women driving change in the construction industry and industry-leading webinars to digital transformation technologies, the WESCO Blog highlights timely topics to help you and your business keep up with industry trends.
Spanning multiple industries and topics, here are our top 12 most popular articles from 2019.

How Big Data Will Impact the Utility Industry This Year
Tapping into big data will help those in the energy and utility industries provide better service, improve communications, and resolve issues in a timely manner. Bringing the IoT and AI into the world of big data is a trend expected to grow in the next few years.

Why Electrical Workers Are the Unsung Heroes of Dangerous Jobs
When thinking about dangerous jobs, electrical work is one that may not always be top of mind. In reality, electrical work is one of the most dangerous jobs in the United States. The NFPA-70E, developed at OSHA’s request, provides detailed information on safe work practices. Brush up on the safety practices outlined in NFPA-70E to make sure everyone goes home at night.

8 Reasons to Invest in a Lighting Retrofit Upgrade
Upgrading to LED lighting reduces energy consumption and typically shows a rapid return on your investment. When considering a lighting retrofit for your facility, there are several benefits to keep in mind. Improving site safety and enhancing aesthetics are just a few.

The Need for Nitrile Gloves in the Fight Against Fentanyl
Anyone working in law enforcement or emergency medical services should be aware of the potential dangers of fentanyl exposure. Proper protective equipment, including nitrile gloves, can help ensure that first responders are protected in the fight against opioid overdoses.

How Women are Driving Changes to PPE in the Construction Industry
As the construction industry sees an increase of women on job sites, making sure that women in the trades have properly fitting PPE is critical. Think about hard hats, fall protection harnesses, gloves, and steel toe boots. It’s important for everyone to consider diversity when it comes to safety products.

Video Security Cameras and 5GHz Networks – Growing Up Together
Wireless technology has played a role in connecting video security cameras since the first IP cameras came on the scene, from standard definition to HD and ultra HD. The future of video security will continue to call for greater resolutions and frame rates like 8K and 60fps. The good news is that 5Ghz and mmWave wireless technologies can handle it and more.

8 Unexpected Places You Can Find Cable Ties
Cable ties may seem like an everyday household item. Did you know that they’ve been used under the sea, on a Mars rover, and in the engine of a race car? From Earth to space, here are eight surprising places you can find cable ties.

How Distribution Can Benefit Contractors With Prefabricated Electrical Solutions
Electrical prefabrication is like putting together pieces of a puzzle. Prefabricated parts come to your job site already assembled and ready to be installed. Learn why prefab is valuable to commercial contractors and some considerations to keep in mind when using it.

Natural Disasters: Planning for the Unexpected
When disaster strikes, it’s critical to have a predetermined plan in place. How are you protecting your people, data and business infrastructure? From making sure that employees understand safety signage to easily find an emergency shelter, to having a defined response protocol for critical systems, each step helps improve your response to a disaster.

Boost Plant Productivity With Automation and Digital Transformation Technologies
Using automation and new digital technologies, companies can leverage data from across their operations to identify issues. This helps plant managers make smarter, faster business decisions. Every company’s digital transformation journey is unique, but they all follow four main steps.

7 Simple Strategies for Effective Construction Material Management
Improve construction project efficiency and keep workers on task with these strategies. Tools like inventory optimization, project planning, wire management, and kitting reduce costs across construction projects.

WESCO Expert Webinar Series
By partnering with electrical and technological experts, the WESCO Expert Webinar Series provides up-to-date information to help you stay at the top of your field. 2019 saw 10 new webinars added to our library with topics ranging from IoT to healthcare infrastructure and 5G to intelligent buildings.
View the on-demand webinar library.
Be sure to subscribe below to see what’s in store for 2020!