Engaged Membership Brings Positive Results
L.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,es,et,fm,i,mt,rts,s,se,spa,st,ws&ptc), ST. LOUIS, MO — Greetings, brothers and sisters. With the support and engagement of the local, member Taquila Gray won her race for alderperson in Ballwin, Mo., a suburb of St. Louis.
More than 150 members helped Local 1 give back to the community for the 22nd consecutive year of Rebuilding Together St. Louis. It was a rewarding day of contributing time and materials for panel upgrades, lights, ceiling fans, receptacles and switches, along with fellowship and giving back to the community. Retired veterans and older citizens were grateful for our charity.
Our RENEW chapter donated all proceeds from the spring trivia night to the relief committee. It was a sellout and a great evening of fellowship. Again, a huge thank you to the membership for their support.
This summer’s RENEW float trip is another fun time that our members love to support.
None of these successful events happen without the leadership of the officers and the engagement of the membership. Our events are win-wins that have continued for Local 1 since 1891.
Kyle Hunter, P.S.
Local 15 Adds Members With Locating Pilot Program Agreement
L.U. 15 (u), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Our local negotiated a locating pilot program agreement with the goal of expanding our membership and providing better service to the public. This agreement adds two new temporary classifications, Locator A and B. Local 15 has 46 new members due to this agreement.
Members hired into the locating pilot receive paid holidays, parental leave, medical coverage, 401(k) and the cash balance pension plan. They will also be eligible to apply for permanent roles within the broader Local 15 contract after 10 months.
This pilot agreement will run through April 1, 2027, and focuses on electrical utility locating in Lake County. If this pilot is successful, Local 15 plans to negotiate a permanent agreement for locating throughout our service territory, which would require a significant number of new members.
Local 15 remains committed to identifying new opportunities to increase our membership. This agreement provides an avenue for working-class people to enter and advance into a solid middle-class career such as substation mechanic, underground cable splicer or overhead lineman.
Under President/Business Manager Chris Riser’s leadership, Local 15 continues to open pathways into union careers and support the foundation of the middle class.
Bradley Gritt, Bus. Rep.
Happenings in Buffalo
L.U. 41 (em,es,govt,i,se&spa), BUFFALO, NY — I recently saw an article in The Electrical Worker from March 1914 that described contract negotiations in Local 41. I thought it was appropriate to share, given our recent contract negotiations: “A raise to $3.75 per day, from February 15 to January 1, 1915, $4.00 per day in 1915, $4.50 per day in 1916, and in 1917 and thereafter, $5.00 per day.”
Local 41 is happy to announce that our membership packed into the union hall in March to ratify our tentative agreement with NECA. We came to terms on a three-year agreement, which began May 26.
Work in Buffalo remains plentiful. While continuing to take care of our everyday customers, about a year is left before the soft opening of the new home of the Buffalo Bills.
There are only 32 NFL stadiums in the league, so don’t miss your opportunity to tell your friends and family that your brothers and sisters powered the pit while watching Josh Allen in prime time. If you have any interest in working on this historic project, please contact the local union office at 716-662-6111 and ask for dispatch.
Matthew Gaiser, A.B.M.
Local 43 Celebrates at St. Patrick’s Day Parades
L.U. 43 (em,i&rts), SYRACUSE, NY — Our local’s members and their families showed their union pride and enjoyed the Syracuse and Utica St. Patrick’s Day parades. We had an amazing day with 70-degree weather for both parades!
We would like to thank everyone for coming out and celebrating this annual event.
Jeff Cassano, P.S.
Happy Independence Day from Local 47
L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u&uow), DIAMOND BAR, CA — Greetings, brothers and sisters. Business Manager/Financial Secretary Colin Lavin attended and spoke at the 17th annual National Labor and Management Public Affairs Committee conference March 4 in Washington, D.C. The conference brought together representatives of labor and management from across the energy industry, along with lawmakers and regulatory officials, to examine the legislative and technological trends transforming our nation’s energy infrastructure and what it means for the future of our industry.
Here are Local 47’s bargaining and event updates:
- Southern California Edison — Call center unit negotiations continue. Awaiting decision in the discharge of Dylan Rogers, Craig Baker, Eric Najera; awaiting decision in the discharge of Manuel Guerrero. The first day of arbitration involving the discharge of Ken Augustine was April 10; the second day was May 1 (awaiting arbitrator opinion). The arbitration involving the discharge of Eric Kross took place before Arbitrator Katherine Harris on June 28 and 30.
- City of Riverside — Supervisory and Utility new contracts effective May 1. Wastewater vote is coming soon on a new contract.
- City of Colton — Electric negotiations continue.
- City of Vernon — Negotiations continue.
- Upcoming events: Injured Workers Fund golf tournament is July 11, and the family picnic is Sept. 27.
We’re sad to report the deaths of Louis Cerda and Brian Watkins. Our condolences and prayers are with their loved ones.
Work safe and buy union!
Mitch Smith, P.S.
Local 71 and Frontier Hold Joint Safety Meetings in Ohio
L.U. 71 (lctt,o&rtb), COLUMBUS, OH — In a collaborative effort to enhance workplace safety, members of our local and Frontier Communications representatives gathered in Ohio for joint safety meetings in April. The meetings were held at various locations across Ohio and focused on reinforcing best practices and addressing safety concerns. Topics included electrical hazard mitigation, ladder safety, personal protective equipment, safe driving, and utility-hole and cable-vault safety.
The inclusion of the IBEW leadership at these events has enabled us to partner together to provide a strong leadership for the workforce. “It is Frontier’s and Local 71’s highest priority to be involved in all aspects of safety related to best protect all employees, creating a tighter relationship between Frontier and the IBEW,” said Andrew DiGenova, Frontier’s director of installation and maintenance in Ohio, emphasizing the company’s dedication to providing a safe working environment.
Local 71 representative James Roessner echoed the sentiment, underscoring the local’s long-standing commitment to worker safety. “Our members face risks every day, and these meetings allow us to openly address challenges and collaborate on solutions. We appreciate Frontier’s willingness to engage in these important discussions.” Key highlights of the meetings were hands-on safety demonstrations, where each member was given the opportunity to show their knowledge and participate in real-world scenarios and hazard recognition.
This joint initiative reflects an ongoing effort to strengthen communication and cooperation between Frontier and Local 71, ensuring that safety remains a top priority.
Jay Roessner, R.S.
Local 99 Bruins Night
L.U. 99 (govt&i), PROVIDENCE, RI — On April 12, our local members attended the Providence Bruins’ annual Rhode Island Building Trades hockey night. More than 200 members, relatives and friends came to the game that Saturday night. Many members showed their support by wearing Local 99 Providence Bruins jerseys.
Thanks to the volunteers that attended, Local 99 had a successful swag table at the event. IBEW stickers, pencils and stress pucks were handed out. The night ended with the Bruins winning 4-3 against the Belleville Senators in overtime!
Sidney Jablonski, P.S.
Local 131 Honors Those Who Have Passed
L.U. 131 (i,rtb,rts,se&spa), KALAMAZOO, MI — The work outlook is slowing but steady in Kalamazoo. Palisades nuclear plant is progressing toward startup and planning for completion by December.
Congratulations to the following officers who were nominated in unopposed races at May’s meeting: Assistant Business Manager Jonathan Current, President Eddie LeBoeuf, Vice President Timothy Haydon, Treasurer Paul Barrons and Recording Secretary Nick Leitch.
We recently lost several retirees: Richard Butler, Gary Lasecki, Marcus Mays, Keith Moore, Steven L. Parker, Larry Smith, Edwin J. Sturm, Alan Sweitzer and Mark S. Szekely. I learned so much from you all and laughed a lot with you. I will miss all of you.
The local picnic is scheduled for July 26 at River Oak Park in Galesburg. Call the hall at 269-382-1762 for details. I hope to see you there.
Morris A. Applebey, B.M.
Local 141 Looks Forward to Future Projects
L.U. 141 (ees,i,o&u), WHEELING, WV — Greetings, brothers and sisters. Work is still slow at our local, with 55 members on Book 1. Thankfully, there remain many employment opportunities for our members in nearby locals.
In April, WVU Medicine/Wheeling Hospital held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new $130 million state-of-the-art cancer center to be built in Wheeling. This project, along with other sizable commercial projects slated to be built in Wheeling later this year, will bring much-needed work into our jurisdiction.
Local 141 is proud to announce the initial steps to establish our local RENEW chapter. With the guidance of President David Cantrell and Business Manager Glenn Giffin and the initiative of Brother Max Mendelson, this new group has been meeting with many interested young members. We anticipate that the group will be officially chartered with the IBEW later this year.
Local 141 is sad to report the passing of retired members Donald “Ray” Baker and Michael “Crash” Kanick. These brothers will be greatly missed.
Kurt “Bug” Reed, P.S.
70 Years of Brotherhood
L.U. 153 (em,i,mt,rtb,rts,se,spa&st), SOUTH BEND, IN — Brothers and sisters, Business Manager Mike Leda recently had the honor of presenting Brother Ronald Ingle his 70-year service pin. Brother Ingle was initiated in 1955 and retired in the mid-’90s. Imagine all of the changes Brother Ingle experienced during his career! The turnout during his ceremony was a testament to his distinguished career. He’s a great worker and an even better friend.
Our work outlook is unprecedented. Our data center employs local members and continues hiring a record number of travelers. The DC Cook nuclear facility has a spring and a fall outage; Notre Dame has a number of large projects; and the South Bend Cubs’ Four Winds Field is undergoing an extensive remodel, including adding an upper deck.
Our union hall is also growing with a remodel. This growth will allow us to use much more of our space to better serve the membership. We are looking forward to the grand reopening.
Lastly, Katherine “Kate” Bennett was sworn in as Local 153 president, making history as the first female president in our 111 years. Katherine previously served as vice president. Brother James Buckley takes over as vice president. Congratulations, Kate and Jimmy!
Michael Needham, Bus. Rep.
Marching for Unity
L.U. 269 (i&o), TRENTON, NJ — Parade season once again ushered in the end of winter and the hope for warmer days ahead. With St. Patrick’s Day parades in Mount Holley and Hamilton in New Jersey and Bucks County, Pa., the local seized the opportunity to march for three weeks in a row in an annual show of organized labor solidarity and strength.
Members and their families showed up in impressive numbers to walk side by side with union pride on full display. Local 269 had the strongest showing by far in all three parades, with bucket trucks, line trucks, our new digital message board truck, and a pickup truck loaded with candy and souvenirs for the enthusiastic crowds that lined the parade routes. The weather largely cooperated, which made a great day even greater.
With the current political climate being turbulent, to say the least, and collective bargaining under attack from anti-labor forces in Washington, D.C., and throughout the country, it is imperative that all labor organizations stand together as one and show that we are a force to be reckoned with. These parades were a perfect public platform to showcase our pride and commitment to our community and our cause.
Brian Jacoppo, P.S.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
L.U. 313 (i&spa), WILMINGTON, DE — Greetings from our local, powering the state of Delaware and Cecil County, Md.
Local 313 joined a St. Patrick’s Day parade on King Street in Wilmington. The weather turned out to be perfect. We had more than 100 union members, apprentices, families and friends join us at the event. It was a great turnout as always. We appreciate everyone who came to the event, and we are hoping for more in the future.
David Rholetter, P.S.
Green Pockets, Greener Pastures
L.U. 343 (i,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN — At the time of this writing in April, we have open job calls. Work is plentiful in the local, the state and across the country. For those seeking a change, the opportunities to travel couldn’t be better. Some apprentices have even been permitted to work outside of the jurisdiction under certain circumstances.
For members traveling for the first time, there are some important rules of the road to follow.
Always remember that you are a guest of the local you are working in and keep the following pointers in mind:
- Remove your name from all other locals’ books except your home local.
- Be prepared to show your paid-up dues receipt to the steward.
- Ask for a copy of the local’s agreement and abide by it.
- Never get involved in another local’s politics.
- Do not accept a foreman position until all Book 1 members have been asked.
As a traveler, you are a representative of Local 343. Conduct yourself in a professional manner that reflects through your workmanship, attitude and actions.
A license, a dues ticket and a tool bag can open up a whole new world of the IBEW experience.
Buying Made in USA is more than a slogan.
Tom Small, P.S.
Local 357, Electrical JATC of Southern Nevada Celebrate 2025 Graduates
L.U. 357 (c,i,mt&se), LAS VEGAS, NV — The Electrical JATC of Southern Nevada hosted its annual graduation ceremony May 24 at the union hall. This year’s event recognized the hard work and achievements of 84 inside wiremen and 14 installer technicians who successfully completed their apprenticeships.
Training Director Doug Ziegenhagen, along with Assistant Training Directors Matthew Apfel and Julie-Ann Peeples and Curriculum Coordinator Brandon Duffey, had the pleasure of presenting the graduates with their certificates. It was a privilege to recognize each graduate’s years of dedication, growth and accomplishment.
Following the ceremony, graduates, family members and guests gathered for a celebratory dinner sponsored by the Southern Nevada IBEW/NECA LMCC. The dinner took place at Durango Station, a proudly IBEW-built venue.
Special recognition was given to:
- Vance L. Lockrey — Outstanding Apprentice, inside wireman
- Seth A. Makue-Vasconcellos — Outstanding Apprentice, installer technician
- Octavio R. Gonzalez (inside wireman) and Seth A. Makue-Vasconcellos (installer technician) — Clyde Green Sr. Memorial Awards (highest GPA among minority students)
In addition to these accomplishments, Octavio R. Gonzalez, Brandon A. Malvaez, Jesus J. Navarro and Jack M. Puterbaugh received Perfect Attendance Awards.
Congratulations, graduates! You are now proud journey-level members of the IBEW, beginning your next chapter of professional growth and lifelong learning.
Julie-Ann Peeples, P.S.
Local 481 Stays IBEW Proud
L.U. 481 (ees,em,i,mt,rts,s&spa), INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Brothers and sisters, more than a year ago, employees of the Marion County Public Defenders Agency in Indianapolis reached out to our local asking for representation. An organizing drive was started, and an election was held soon after. It was with overwhelming support that Local 481 was voted in to represent the employees.
After the election, negotiations began, and the first contract was in the works. At the beginning of 2025, negotiations were stalled due to binding arbitration and grievance language. The city was unwilling to budge, and negotiations came to a halt.
In April, the bargaining unit held a rally at a City Council meeting and voiced their displeasure that the city was unable to present a contract to be voted on for the new members. It was a great turnout and an amazing sight to see all the support from current members, family, friends, allies and future members.
Thank you to those who came out in support! The solidarity was in full sight for all to see, and we look forward to more activism from our members. Stay active and continue to be IBEW proud!
Blake Andrews, Treas.
Sunny Days and Solid Work
L.U. 557 (i,mt,rts&spa), SAGINAW, MI — The grass is cut and the clubs are out — our local’s golf league is back! All members are welcome to come out and play every Thursday at Twin Oaks Golf Course.
We are gearing up for another big project in our jurisdiction, Gratiot Solar, an 80-MW solar farm that’s a direct product of the Inflation Reduction Act signed into law under the Biden administration in 2022. This act safeguards our work by requiring employers to pay prevailing wages and employ registered apprentices for full tax credits.
Meanwhile, our brothers and sisters continue to stay busy in Hemlock. There are 555 IBEW members working at Project Phoenix.
Donovan Bender, P.S.
Local 601 Continues a Favorite Tradition
L.U. 601 (i&rtb), CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL — Our local has once again completed an annual tradition of our members-only steak stag. As usual, we thank Bob “I made the first IBEW shirt by hand” Withers and his ensemble of first-years who helped cook the steaks, fries and toast.
This event, along with others, has seen a small spike in attendance. Local 601 is in full swing, with the Brotherhood growing with a new contract that started March 1.
Brother Chris Kirkwood-Sawyer won the RENEW raffle for an ORCA cooler.
Retiree Mark Olivera won the RENEW 50/50 drawing.
There are 23 on Book 1 and 21 on Book 2. We are accepting faxes for travelers, so find out more on the website at IBEW601.org.
Luther Baker, P.S.
Local 611 Celebrates Joe O. Garcia
L.U. 611 (catv,es,govt,i,lctt,o,spa,t&u), ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Our local celebrates our Brother Joe O. Garcia, who recently received his 50-year membership certificate in a special award event. Our Brotherhood is stronger with members like you, Joe. We salute you and your years of service!
Darrell J. Blair, P.S.
Local 617 JWMC Riding Strong
Local 617’s JWMC was established in June 2008 by Brother Dan Pasini and 20 other founding members.
L.U. 617 (c,i,mo&st), SAN MATEO, CA — Our local is extremely proud of our Journeymen Wireman Motorcycle Club and its advocacy, dedication and community service. The JWMC was established in June 2008 by Brother Dan Pasini and 20 other members.
Over the years, club members have built on their hobby and passion for riding motorcycles through volunteering, donating resources, fundraising for various organizations, participating in community events, and supporting veterans and active-duty military.
With ongoing years of sponsorship for the Northern California Ride For Kids, our JWMC has raised more than $190,000 for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation with the help of other locals in the Ninth District and Local 617’s “Buck a Member” campaign. Other rides include the Napa Valley Ride to Defeat ALS, Bikes and Guns Run, San Francisco Fire Department Toy Run, and George Bastidas Memorial Run. The Bastidas Memorial Fund provides members in need with funds in the spirit of Brother Bastidas, who was generous and selfless.
The Local 617 JWMC also participates in and supports Warriors’ Watch, Patriot Guard and American Legion Riders, VSO missions, Veterans Day parades, funerals and memorials, Welcome Home events, Honor Flight missions, and Wreaths Across America. Keep riding strong, brothers, and know we are most grateful for all you do.
Scott Wein, B.M./F.S.
125th Anniversary
L.U. 915 (i&mt), TAMPA, FL — On March 15, our local hosted the 125th anniversary of the IBEW representing electrical workers in the Tampa Bay area. Local 15 Business Managers Randall King, Christopher Parsels (Local 108), and Joshua Saladino (Local 824) welcomed Fifth District International Vice President Glenn Brannen to the event. Members from the three Tampa Bay locals enjoyed food, drink, music and games on the banks of Lake 915.
At the April general membership meeting, President Jonathan Fielder swore in 34 new members, bringing our total membership to an all-time high of 1,357. We also celebrated our members’ years of service with the annual service pin presentation.
On April 19, we held the 17th annual bass fishing tournament on Lake 915. A big thank you goes out to Brother Leon Ward for putting on the wonderful event every year. The winners took home custom fishing rods crafted by Brother Ward.
On April 26, members of Local 915 led by President Fielder participated in the Walk to Defeat ALS in solidarity with Brother Robert Ray. Brother Ray gave many years of service to Local 915. We will continue to support his fight against this insidious disease.
Brian Nathan, A.B.M.
Local 1347 Powering the Airwaves for Cincinnati Broadcasting
L.U. 1347 (ees,em,u&ptc), CINCINNATI, OH — Through the best and worst of times, our local’s broadcasting division stands strong on the front lines and behind the scenes. From the field to the control room, we are proud to be the hands behind the coverage you watch every day.
This work is more than just a broadcast. It’s a craft. It’s made with precision, dedication and pride by union professionals.
What you see on the screen is powered by union skill and solidarity.
Andrew Kirk, B.M./F.S.
Local 1547 Supports Robotics Team
Local 1547 is proud of its members involved with the Lynx Initiative, which gives high school students access to robotics training and STEM education.
L.U. 1547 (c,em,i,o,t,u,lctt&ptc), ANCHORAGE, AK — We believe in building opportunities in our local. When a group of high school students came to us with a vision for a community robotics team, we saw a chance to invest in Alaska’s future workforce and provide young minds with access to STEM education.
That idea became the Lynx Initiative, and it took off with Local 1547’s seed funding. What started as a single community team has grown into a movement, giving more than 100 kids (a number that grows every week) access to FIRST robotics programs. Next season, the initiative will support more than 10 teams. Thanks to dedicated student mentors and Tanya Black, their IBEW member head coach, more students than ever are stepping into a world of STEM.
It all started with Ψ Lynx FTC 3825, the high school team that set the ripple in motion. Their work didn’t just create teams, but it also built a community. Because of their dedication, Ψ Lynx won the Inspire Award at the Alaska State Robotics Championship and has earned a place at the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship.
Local 1547 believed in an idea, and that investment continues to shape the future of STEM in Alaska. We couldn’t be prouder.
Melinda Taylor, Comm. Dir.
Fourth of July
L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA — Hello, brothers and sisters. I hope everyone is doing well. The summer months and high temperatures will be here by the time you read this. Please keep yourselves hydrated and know your limitations. With that said, enjoy your Independence Day and the rest of your summer.
The work situation in Augusta is basically the same as reported in our last Local Lines article. Savannah River Site is still hiring members for Savannah River Nuclear Solutions and Savannah River Mission Completion as we continue to play the waiting game for the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility.
Miller has employed a good number of our members at the data center in Graniteville, S.C., and will be hiring more soon. Business Manager JR Richardson is constantly meeting with contractors, owners and city councilmen on several projects that we hope will come to fruition.
I want to wish everyone a very happy Memorial Day and Fourth of July. Be safe, enjoy yourself, and be nice.
“You cannot do kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Mike Greene, Pres.
