For the National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP), success is measured not only by the quality of its curriculum, but by the people who ensure that training, safety, and education remain responsive to a constantly evolving industry. At the center of that effort for the last four years has been Ed Christensen Jr., National Coordinator of NEIEP, whose leadership and dedication have played a vital role in strengthening the program nationwide.

In his role as National Coordinator, Ed served as a critical link between NEIEP’s national mission and its local execution. He worked closely with local programs, area coordinators, instructors, trustees, and industry partners to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance across all NEIEP training initiatives. His efforts helped guarantee that elevator constructors across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Guam receive education that is relevant, current, and grounded in the highest safety standards.

One of Ed’s most significant contributions has been his commitment to standardization and accountability within NEIEP’s training framework. By supporting uniform instructional practices and reinforcing national guidelines, he has helped elevate the overall effectiveness of local training programs while still respecting the unique needs of each region. This balance has been essential in maintaining NEIEP’s reputation as the gold standard for elevator industry education.

Ed has also been instrumental in advancing safety-focused education, ensuring that safety principles are not treated as a standalone topic, but as a core value woven throughout every aspect of NEIEP instruction. His work has reinforced the idea that safety is not simply taught, it is practiced, modeled, and reinforced at every level of training. This approach directly supports NEIEP’s mission to prepare skilled professionals who return home safely every day.

In addition, Ed played a key role in supporting and mentoring those around him. Through coordination, guidance, and hands-on engagement, he helped ensure that instructors are equipped with the tools, resources, and confidence needed to deliver high-quality education. His collaborative style and deep understanding of the trade have earned him the respect of area coordinators, instructors, and administrators alike.

Beyond program oversight, Ed’s dedication is evident in his willingness to engage directly with the field—listening to feedback, identifying challenges, and working toward practical solutions that benefit apprentices, journeypersons, and the industry as a whole. His steady leadership helps NEIEP remain adaptable in the face of new technologies, changing codes, and evolving workforce needs.

Ed Christensen Jr.’s accomplishments as National Coordinator reflect a career rooted in service, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to the future of the elevator industry. Through his efforts, NEIEP continues to uphold its responsibility to provide world-class education, promote safety excellence, and prepare the next generation of elevator constructors for long, successful careers.

As Ed moves on to new challenges as IT Director for the IUEC, we at NEIEP wish him luck and continued success in his new role. Thanks to Ed’s hard work and dedication, NEIEP, and the industry that we serve, are stronger.