2012
President

Danny King, 2012 Western Section President

I want to bring greetings from Arkansas Chapter and thank the Kentucky Chapter for the hospitality and kindness that has been expressed to me. I would like to give you a short background of my life. I was born on a farm in Dayton, AR. March 21, 1947, and live there until I was 19. I attended school and graduate from Mansfield, AR. In 1965.  I married Reita Willsey in 1969 and was married for 39 years. We have one son Justin who is an electrician and Fire Fighter. On Dec 6, 2008 God called Reita home for some unknown reason.

I come from a family of Electrician’s, My father and his two brothers worked together at Calvin King Electric business. Like so many children I wanted to spend time with my dad. I began my electrical career at a young age 13. (1960) working during the summer months and a ½ day on Saturday. In 1963 the city Of Fort Smith started requiring Licenses in the city and I had the # 1 apprentice card, my uncle had the # 1 master’s and my dad had the #1 journeyman card. Working beside my dad until 1974 was a school of hard knocks – not realizing at the time it was a wonderful experience in my life. When I was in High school I served in F F A electrical judging team for three years.  In 1974 I join the I B EW Local 700 after much encouragement from dad.

My career took a turn in 1992 when I became an Electrical Inspector for the City of Fort Smith. Many of you know that when you’re in the field working and then jump the fence inspecting your friends look at you different. Not realizing all the duties of an inspector but very soon learning I gain a lot more respect for inspectors. This is the same year I became a member with the Arkansas Chapter I A E I and the Western Section. I served the Chapter as President In 1999 – 2001. In 1997 I came on the Western Section Board of Directors. I was appointed to the Arkansas Board of Electrical Examiners in 2003. Also serving as a continuing education instructor for the Arkansas IAEI chapter. I’m certified in Residential Electrical Inspector, Commercial Electrical Inspector and Electrical Inspector. All these things take time away from the office.

I am Fortunate that my employer think code development is a worthwhile use of some of my time. I really appreciate their support and owe a special thanks to my Boss and co-worker for covering the duties in the office. “The city has been more than just an employer. They have provided an opportunity for me to expand my knowledge, make lifetime friends and gain a sense of worth that extends beyond the local community.”

I have been active in Scouts since 1991 serving as the troop 54 Charter Representative. And I have seen my son make Eagle Scout. I have held various positions with Westark Area Council Boy Scouts of America.
I’m a treasure for the Greenwood Rural Fire Department, Secretary for the Greenwood Masonic Lodge and a Past Grand Master of the Arkansas Grand Lodge in 1992.

In my spare time I do Dutch Oven Cook-off’s and Demo. I also have a Kettle Korn business which involves traveling to and from events.

When I have nothing else to do I play golf.

When I started working things were pretty simple. I never thought about Ground Fault and Arc Fault circuits, LED Lighting, Computer controls, Windmills Generators, or Electrical cars. But technology changed codes.

I’m a believer of continuing education. I feel that learning never ends and it’s important to continue to upgrade one’s skill and knowledge. Get involved and volunteer to participate in IAEI chapter activities, offering to serve on various committees and help with educational programs.

I’m honored and humbled and want to thank the Western Section for your trust and Confidence you have placed in me.
I’m looking forward to my new responsibilities as president during my term. I commit myself and the board of directors to serve you to the best of our ability.

I want to thank the Arkansas Chapter for their support. I have two mentors that I must thank; they are Phil Cox and Richard Lloyd.
I also want to thank a very good friend that has traveled with me the last 15 years, Jay Pence inspector from Fayetteville, AR. 

Without their words of encouragement and advice I would not be in this position today. Thanks to all of you.