There is no greater gift than to give back to an organization that has given so much to my family and me.

That is why I am so grateful to serve as your international secretary-treasurer.

The IBEW has been my life for nearly 40 years. I followed my father into the trade, becoming a proud electrician and member of Local 702 in West Frankfort, Ill.

From apprentice wireman to business manager to Sixth District vice president, I have always answered the call to serve this union in whatever capacity was demanded, and I am humbled and honored to take this next step in my IBEW career.

President Cooper leaves behind an admirable legacy of success in his previous role, and I pledge to continue his total commitment to the job as secretary-treasurer.

As a former pension plan trustee, I understand that managing the IBEW's retirement funds is much more than just accounting. It's about upholding a sacred promise to our members and families.

You work hard for your pension and health care benefits, and I am dedicated to ensuring that these plans are secure and continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.

I am also excited to come to D.C. as the IBEW celebrates major pro-worker legislative wins. Back in Illinois, I helped lead some significant political victories, most recently the historic Workers' Rights Amendment, which bans right-to-work laws across the state, and the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, one of the most pro-worker pieces of energy legislation ever passed.

None of these victories would have been possible without the efforts of rank-and-file IBEW members in communities across the nation. We must continue to educate and mobilize our members to demand a government that respects working people.

For me, politics has never been about partisanship but supporting politicians who stand with IBEW members and opposing those who don't, and I will continue to follow that philosophy as your secretary-treasurer.

This is an exciting time. Unions are increasingly popular, and workers across the economy are coming together to demand a voice. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to rebuild the labor movement's power.

The IBEW has seen numerous successes over the past few years, but President Cooper and I understand that we can't rest on our laurels. We must continually strive to keep moving forward, and I pledge to keep pushing the IBEW to the forefront of the labor movement, the energy industry and our two nations.

This isn't just a job for Kenny and me. It is up to every member to carry out our founding mission, and I am thrilled to stand with all of you as we continue to ensure a bright future for the IBEW and working people everywhere.

Let's get to work.

Also: Cooper: A Mission to Grow