The Western Section began over 100 years ago…
Historically, a record of electrical inspectors working for various jurisdictions of government, as well as insurance, and testing laboratories goes back to the turn of the century. These inspectors saw the need for uniform interpretation of the code rules as well as fair and dependable inspection to safeguard lives and property. It became apparent that there was a need for inspectors to organize to achieve these goals. Some of the old records show inspector organizations for Eastern, Western, and Southern areas.
William S. Boyd who worked for The Underwriters Electrical Bureau (later renamed to Underwriters laboratories) was instrumental in forming the Western Association of Electrical Inspectors. The first meeting of this Association was held in May 1905 with Mr. Boyd serving as Secretary from 1905 until 1926. Mr. Boyd later became chief electrical inspector for the city of Chicago and was instrumental in the creation of the IAEI.