Winter Happenings at Local 16
L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — The 32nd annual Ritzy’s Fantasy of Lights was again highly successful, with this year’s attendance at nearly 13,000 vehicles, raising $239,980 to cover the cost of thousands of Easterseals Rehabilitation Center therapy sessions. Since its inception, more than $4.9 million has been raised for children and adults in need of Easterseals’ life-altering programs. Special thanks are due the many JATC students and instructors who helped throughout the week to insure that everything went as smoothly as possible.
In mid-January, roughly 350 IBEW members and honored guests attended the 2026 winter gala. Everyone enjoyed a full dinner buffet, refreshments and the opportunity to catch up with some of the best people in the world. Thanks to each person on the entertainment committee. Once again, you did an excellent job!
After many months of difficult, protracted and often contentious negotiations, the residential wiremen of Local 16 were finally able to secure a fair and equitable agreement. The contract, which covers approximately 40 residential journeymen and apprentices, will provide a 5.6% raise for each of the 3 years it covers. Much appreciation to the negotiating team for bringing this bargaining to a successful conclusion.
Donald P. Beavin, P.S.
Local 24’s Strength in Numbers
L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — This year marks a milestone for Local 24 as we’ve surpassed 3,000 active members for the first time in our local’s history. This growth reflects the willingness of our members to organize, to show up, and to welcome new brothers and sisters with open arms.
Rapid growth brings real challenges. Bringing more than 1,000 new electricians into our union requires patience, education and a shared commitment to what it means to be a member. It means passing along standards, expectations and pride in our craft to people who are new to the IBEW. That work is not always easy, but it is necessary, and it is work our membership has embraced.
We are proud of how our members have stepped up to meet the moment. Because of their efforts, we have continued to deliver the skilled, reliable workforce our signatory contractors depend on. That stability allows our contractors to continue bidding work to secure future opportunities for our members.
Reaching 3,000 members is an achievement. Sustaining our culture while we grow is our responsibility. Local 24 will continue to do both.
Live Better/Work Union!
Mike McHale, B.M.
Local 26 Events in ’26
L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — Here are a few key dates in 2026 for upcoming events at our local:
- Spring Pension Seminar — Saturday, April 4
- Financial Awareness Seminar — Saturday, May 2
- D.A.D.’s Day Golf Outing — Monday, June 2
- JATC Graduation — Saturday, June 6
Our RENEW group held a chess tournament in January and a meet-and-greet game night in March.
Additionally, our EWMC group attended the 2026 Electrical Workers Minority Caucus National Leadership Conference in Seattle in January.
Best wishes to the following retirees: Brian Becker, Michael Cagemi, Michael Callow, Raymond Cooper, Rodolfo Cruz, Michael Della Volla, Matthew Difiore, Gary Edminster, Robert Gough, Randall Jenkins, Todd Jones, John Kutzfara, Daniel Lane, Sterling Leon, Michael Lusk, Eliseo Martinez, Craig McCoy, Stephen Probey, John Shelley, Scott Shinn, William Slocombe and Ronald Sudduth Sr.
The following members have passed away since our last article: James Carroll, Charles Flagg III, Lynnard Geddis, Curtis Hite, Paul Hockenberry, Bradley Ice, Jerome Kasulaitis, Leo McKeever, Marvin Neese and Ronez Proctor.
Christopher M. Cash, B.M.
Resist, Rise, Organize!
L.U. 46 (as,c,cs,em,es,et,i,mar,mo,mt,rtb,rts&st), SEATTLE, WA — The Electrical Workers Minority Caucus National Leadership Conference recently concluded in Seattle, leaving nearly 900 delegates energized and inspired. Often described by attendees as a “love conference,” the event was more than a professional seminar; it was a powerful celebration of IBEW family.
A central highlight was the annual Day of Service, where hundreds of members volunteered across the city at food banks and schools. This tradition allows delegates to give back while building deep bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. The joy of collective action was palpable, with members reporting a profound sense of accomplishment and heart full of satisfaction from serving the local community.
The spirit of inclusion continued through dynamic plenary sessions and interactive workshops. From mentoring the next generation of RENEW leaders to tackling critical issues like mental health and parliamentary procedure, the environment was one of constant networking and mutual support. “You will never go to a conference and not have someone to talk to,” noted the founding members, reflecting the welcoming atmosphere that defines the EWMC.
The festivities culminated in a gala and awards dinner, where delegates celebrated milestones, including the presentation of the Edwin Lopez Award. The week ended on a high note, with many delegates staying to participate in Seattle’s annual MLK Day March and Celebration.
Participants left Seattle with new skills, a renewed sense of belonging and the union difference, ready to bring that infectious positive energy to their home locals.
Seamus Anglin, R.S.
Local 66 Honors Life-Saving Heroism of Members
L.U. 66 (o,t&u), HOUSTON, TX — Our local recently had the honor of recognizing several members for extraordinary acts of courage, professionalism and teamwork that resulted in the saving of lives.
The heroic actions occurred Dec. 11, 2024, when Local 66 members responded without hesitation during a medical emergency involving a fellow worker. Their calm, decisive actions and adherence to safety training played a direct role in saving lives.
The International Office approved Life Saving Awards in November 2025, reflecting the seriousness of the actions taken and the high standard required for this recognition. The members who received awards are Reynolds Blunt, Christopher Fiata, Kerry Kelly, Alejandro Martinez, Trenton Marullo and Dustin Moskzowicz. Additional members who assisted during the incident were acknowledged with Certificates of Recognition: Matthew Derrick, Guy Earnest, Andre Harris, Michael Landrum, Taylor Parker, Kyle Psencik and Stephen Walleck.
Local 66 took the lead in coordinating the recognition and ensuring that the actions were formally acknowledged at both international and local levels. Ed Allen, business manager for Local 66, presented the awards on behalf of the union and coordinated the recognition efforts. Rick Schwartz, business representative for Local 66, played a key role by submitting the award documentation to the International Office, nominating the members and participating in the ceremony.
The awards were presented during a monthly safety meeting hosted by CenterPoint Energy, making the recognition both meaningful and unexpected. The person whose life was saved was present, underscoring the lasting impact of the members’ actions.
This recognition marks an historic first for Local 66, and a permanent plaque will be displayed in the union hall.
Kim Kaufmann, P.S.
Happenings in Mile-High Denver
L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Spring is here, and seasonal happenings are developing locally. The annual Christmas party was a big success. Approximately 240 kids (and a few adults) sat on Santa’s lap, telling him whether they were good or bad and what they wanted for Christmas. Thank you to all volunteers and all the families who joined us to make the party a joyous event.
Local 68 had its first Veterans Committee meeting Jan. 28 with 13 members in attendance. Be on the lookout for future dates of committee meetings — let’s get more veterans involved within our local.
We have also been very active with legislation matters here in Colorado, being on the forefront of supporting bills and politicians that reinforce the labor movement. This is an endless fight, one that we will continue for our brothers and sisters.
As I write this article, we are gearing up for the annual Wireman’s Brotherhood Fund bowling tournament in February. This is always a huge turnout and fun for all ages.
To all my brothers and sisters, work safe and stay warm.
Debbie Tikka, Pres.
Local 82 Pin Ceremony and Hall of Fame Induction
L.U. 82 (em,i,mt&rtb), DAYTON, OH — On Aug. 8, 2025, our local hosted its annual pin ceremony, presenting the Charles Toon scholarship winners for apprentices and the Hall of Fame induction. It was a wonderful evening with great food and friends. Congratulations to all the pin recipients and scholarship winners!
I would like to congratulate Bob Keller on his induction into the Local 82 Hall of Fame. Bob’s involvement with Local 82 started in 1977, and he has always had a special talent and passion for teaching. Bob taught at the Greene County Career Center for 22 years and the Local 82 JATC for 21 years. I cannot think of a more deserving member, and I was lucky to have him as a teacher and mentor.
Chris Toon, Pres.
Join Local 104 for the 20th Annual Rodeo
L.U. 104 (lctt,o,u&ptc), BOSTON, MA — To all the brothers and sisters, friends, and families of Local 104: It’s that time of year again! We are excited to invite you to the 20th annual Local 104 Rodeo, a milestone event May 16 at the beautiful Kimball Farm in Westford, Mass.
Come out and cheer for all the talented participants as they compete for a chance to represent Local 104 at the International Lineman’s Rodeo in Kansas City, Mo. The top six journeyman linemen and top three apprentices from Local 104 will earn the honor of showcasing their skills on the national stage.
This is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of the hard work, dedication and camaraderie that make Local 104 special. Be part of the excitement, reconnect with friends, and make memories with family.
We look forward to seeing you and your loved ones at Kimball Farm. Do not miss this unforgettable day!
Hugh Boyd, A.B.M.
Shame on Port KC
L.U. 124 (ees,em,i,mar,rts,se,spa,t&ptc), KANSAS CITY, MO — The IBEW came out in full force during the Kansas City mayor’s State of the City address. More than 200 Local 124 members, along with other Building Trades members, came to protest the Kansas City Port Authority and its CEO, Jon Stephens.
The Port Authority is governed by an unelected seven-member board, which appoints a CEO to oversee day-to-day operations. The mayor of Kansas City appoints all board members. The Port Authority has played a significant role in many of Kansas City’s major developments, including data centers, CPKC Stadium, Berkley Riverfront and the Hunt Midwest Business Center.
Generally, the IBEW has no issue with economic development, but the Port Authority has abused its power for too long. For decades, the Port Authority has awarded incentives without prevailing wage or community benefits agreements. Ralph Oropeza, business manager of the Greater Kansas City Building and Construction Trades Council and a Local 124 retiree, has patiently negotiated with Stephens to enact pro-workforce policies.
A final warning was issued to Stephens before the January meeting to enact prevailing wage and apprenticeship standards for port projects. Demands were not met, and labor made sure its voice was heard!
Wade Kiefer, Bus. Rep.
Metra Projects Help Local 134 Turn Momentum Into Growth
L.U. 134 (catv,em,govt,i,mt,rtb,rts,spa&t), CHICAGO, IL — In November 2025, the board of directors of the Metra rail system approved the operating budget for 2026, which included a capital investment of $59.1 million in signals, electrical and communications. Local 134 represents approximately 400 Metra workers throughout Chicagoland and surrounding counties.
IBEW Metra members work in multiple departments, including communications, engineering, mechanical and substation. The Metra Communications Department will be responsible for a portion of the approved capital project for 2026. The assignment will involve replacing fiber optic cables that run from Metra downtown and throughout all routes to the end of their lines.
These upgrades will improve communication lines between train engineers and dispatchers. The Communications Department also works directly with phone, radio and PA announcements. This year’s work will also include capital projects dedicated to electrical infrastructure and enhancing power systems that support train movement, particularly on electric lines.
Metra recently hired new Local 134 members in their apprenticeship program, which will provide training for work in their Mechanical Department. These apprentices will work on the train’s electrical components and will be instrumental in providing dependable service for customers by completing safety inspections and making repairs on train cars.
Local 134 congratulates Metra on its 2025 HIRE Vets Medallion Award. This award from the U.S. Department of Labor recognizes Metra for successfully hiring and retaining veterans.
Donald Finn, B.M./F.S.
2026 Brings Strong Work Outlook, Growth to Lake County, Ill.
L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL — Spring is here, and summer work is right around the corner. For Local 150, that means school upgrades, a new casino and data center projects already underway or set to break ground soon. We expect to stay busy and anticipate solid employment opportunities this year, including work for our traveling sisters and brothers. We appreciate the help, solidarity and professionalism you bring to every job.
Please mark a couple of important dates on your calendar. First, attend the May 6 general meeting, where we will hold an allocation vote for the $5 increase to the inside wireman package. Your voice matters! This increase will bring the total inside package to $108.85. Second, the Local 150 family picnic is scheduled for Aug. 8, where we look forward to spending the day with our members and their families.
Last month’s Illinois spring election is a reminder of the importance of staying informed and engaged. Take the time to learn where political candidates stand on issues that affect working families here in Lake County. Workers’ rights do not enforce themselves; they require continued support from elected officials who stand with labor. Do your homework, stay involved, and make sure your voice is heard at the ballot box this November!
Sisters and brothers, stay safe out there and always look out for one another.
Aaron M. Rendon, P.S./R.S.
Bright Future for Tri-County Electrical JATC
L.U. 234 (i&mt), CASTROVILLE, CA — We are thrilled to announce that the Tri-County Electrical JATC has officially purchased the land for our training center. This milestone marks a new chapter of stability and growth for Local 234’s inside apprenticeship program.
As part of this transition, the former Local 234 office has been transitioned into the new JATC main office. Owning the facility means the JATC can focus on investing deeply in our labs and classrooms and the future of our apprentices.
This achievement was the result of incredible teamwork. We want to thank committee members Matt Furrer, Andy Hartmann, Pete Marsiguerra and Linda Taylan. We owe a special thanks to NECA Chapter Manager Jerri Champlin and Local 234 Business Manager Jose Munoz for their leadership in taking this property sale across the finish line.
The future is bright for the Tri-County Electrical JATC. Let’s get to work!
Andy Hartmann, Pres.
Safety First, Safety Always
L.U. 300 (govt,i,u,mo&lctt), MONTPELIER, VT — On May 25, 2025, Nick Leblanc, IBEW member and foreman lineworker for Morrisville Water and Light, risked his life to save another. On Jan. 28, in recognition of his heroic actions, the IBEW awarded Nick the most prestigious award in its arsenal, the IBEW Life Saving Award. This recognition bestows great credit upon Nick, his family, his fellow members and the IBEW. Thank you for your selfless service to humanity.
As members of the IBEW, we are the best-trained, most efficient and most safety-conscious workforce in our industries. Two of the primary objectives of the IBEW are to promote reasonable methods of work, which include safe work practices, and to cultivate feelings of friendship among those in our industry, which allows us to create a safe work environment for members to learn and be safe. You are all paid to be safe, first and foremost. Safety first, safety always — your families depend on it.
This article was written on Groundhog Day, and Punxsutawney Phil was unfortunately accurate with his prediction of six more weeks of winter. And as we do every year, we shake off Old Man Winter and welcome the spring. Local 300 officers wish you a safe and welcoming heat wave.
Jeffrey Wimette, B.M./F.S.
Local 340’s Brotherhood and Growth
L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — As we enter another year, hopeful for growth for our members, I reflect on what the Brotherhood means to me. I have been given the opportunity to be the business manager over the past four elections, and I’m entering my 13th year in office.
We began our year with a few familiar events, such as our annual crab feed, put on by Local 340’s softball team. This event demonstrates the power of brotherhood and camaraderie. Many attended, including community partners, to enjoy a night of food, family and fun.
We also recently held our new-member orientation, where we dive into the details of what our local offers its new members and the benefits that have helped so many families. This class invites members’ spouses and significant others to attend so they can learn firsthand how our union can serve them.
Members of our EWMC committee attended the National Leadership Conference in Seattle, and one of our members, Justin Hill, spoke at the event. It was a proud moment for Local 340 to be represented and be part of something that fosters growth and excellence in our local.
Local 340 held two meetings, one special called and one allocation. These meetings gave our members a chance to participate in the local and have their voices heard. S&C Electric members collectively decided how they wanted their March increase to be allocated, while our full membership voted on language changes for our bylaws. Every member has the right to participate in determining where their future ventures go, and being a part of the IBEW has paved the way for our brothers and sisters and their families.
My hope is to continue to provide pathways for current and future members while leading in a positive direction.
Robert Ward, B.M./F.S.
Local 364’s Hot Start to 2026
L.U. 364 (catv,ees,em,es,i,mt,rts&spa), ROCKFORD, IL — Our local hit the ground running this spring.
Work opportunities remain strong as Project Yukon in Belvidere has well over 150 electricians onsite. This and the multiple solar projects underway have started 2026 off right.
We had another successful outage at our Byron nuclear facility. Many thanks to all the traveling brothers and sisters who shared the work and completed this project.
As of this writing, Project Vector in DeKalb has a tentative site work start in April. Plan on more information coming as the next data center in Local 364 gets going.
Summer is construction season, which also includes all our safety work at all the schools in our jurisdiction, so we can expect even more work to be available for our members as 2026 keeps on rolling.
We have several member events coming soon, the first being our Safety Fest on June 13. This event focuses on safety on the jobsite and is an opportunity for Local 364 to give back to first responders, which builds our community and gives our members the opportunity to meet with local police and fire department members.
Brad Williams, P.S.
Local 440 Has Room to Grow
L.U. 440 (i,rts&spa), RIVERSIDE, CA — It’s been more than 30 years since the officers of our local wired and installed the 15-bolt-fist illuminated sign in front of our 1074 La Cadena address. This was our home for years, one that we shared with multiple crafts at the “Labor Temple” facility of the Inland Empire. In 2007, we were blessed to move to a larger facility just a couple of miles away, where we shared a large meeting room with our neighboring brothers and sisters of Local 47, at 1405 Spruce St., Suite G. This was an upgrade for sure, but still a shared facility.
Fast forward to 2025, and Local 440 members can proudly say that we now have our very own facility complete with our own meeting hall, plenty of parking and room to grow. At February’s union meeting, the new illuminated signs shone bright for the first time.
From very humble beginnings to now, we have come a long way. Since I took the oath in November 1997, we have grown from approximately 500 members to more than 1,300. We have moved twice due to the growth in membership, and it has been a pleasure and a blessing to see it happen. The members of Local 440 voted to approve these changes, and they can stand proud knowing that we are leaving our local better than we found it.
I’ve always loved the quote “The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” In this case, a lot of us are enjoying the shade of this tree, but we still need to be mindful of the future, continuing to set up those yet to walk our path. Just like our founding fathers did.
Bernie Balland, P.S.
Local 702 Celebrates Service, New Contract
L.U. 702 (as,c,catv,cs,em,es,et,govt,i,it,lctt,mo,mt,o,p,pet,ptc,rtb,rts,se,spa,st,t,u,uow&ws), WEST FRANKFORT, IL — Greetings, brothers and sisters. We want to congratulate five members who received their 55-year service pins in December: David Houseworth, Walter Jackson, David Smith, Ronald Waldron and David Walker.
The new contract for outside construction linemen went into effect Jan. 5. The four-year agreement includes a 4.25% wage increase for each year for all classifications and up to 75 cents for any and all increases mandated by LINECO trustees during the term of the agreement.
The RENEW committee remains active, and members recently volunteered their time and talent to support the community by setting up the Candy Cane Lane holiday display in West Frankfort.
Jamie Hatfield, A.B.M.
Local 728 Innovates, Solves Problems in Real Time
L.U. 728 (em,i,rts&spa), FT. LAUDERDALE, FL — The IBEW continues to demonstrate leadership in innovation and renewable energy construction, and that’s evident at the Costco Port St. Lucie solar project.
Lightning Electric, a Local 728 signatory, has been contracted to install a stand-alone, utility-independent microgrid system with more than 15 megawatts of solar power, large-scale battery storage and on-site generator support. This system will serve a facility greater than 1.5 million square feet, with about 500,000 square feet as cold storage. Once complete, this Costco facility will operate with no connection to the local electrical utility — a remarkable milestone in South Florida and a showcase of union craftsmanship powering the future of resilient infrastructure.
The workforce bringing this project to life is made up of Local 728 journey-level wiremen, apprentices from the South Florida Electrical JATC and Lightning Electric’s staff of proud IBEW members. Together, they are delivering the specialized skill and unwavering solidarity needed to meet a demanding construction schedule.
As with any complex renewable energy infrastructure, unforeseen challenges arise daily. Local 728 members — supported by Lightning Electric’s project managers, foremen and safety professionals — have consistently delivered innovative, timely solutions to keep the project on track. Their ability to adapt, redesign and overcome technical hurdles is a testament to the strength of union training, the depth of the apprenticeship program and the experience that IBEW members bring to the field.
The Port St. Lucie Costco Distribution Center will stand as a flagship accomplishment for Local 728, the South Florida Electrical JATC and Lightning Electric. It will also serve as a powerful example of how union labor is leading the transition to renewable, resilient and technologically advanced electrical systems.
From large-scale photovoltaic installation and high-voltage battery integration to advanced controls, grounding, commissioning and emergency power coordination, the IBEW crews on site are demonstrating the very best of union electrical craftsmanship. Their work reflects both the technical excellence and the collaborative culture that define Local 728.
This landmark project highlights what happens when skilled union professionals are given the opportunity to build the future: They deliver safe, high-quality, innovative work that raises industry standards and benefits the entire community.
Effie Cruz, P.S.
Local 1340 Lobbies at the AFL-CIO Legislative Session
L.U. 1340 (i&o), NEWPORT NEWS, VA — At the time of this writing, delegates from our local just returned from Richmond, where they participated in the annual Virginia AFL-CIO legislative session. Over 2,600 bills were proposed, all to be addressed in a 60-day session completed by March 14. Business Manager Jeff Rowe, Assistant Business Manager Jesse Robertson, Press Secretary Jim Avery and apprentice Nicholas Bowman spent Feb. 2 meeting with delegates and senators from our jurisdiction to urge support for issues to improve life for our members and working families in general.
Brother Jason Parker, a member of Local 1340, serves as president of the Virginia State Building and Construction Trades Council and worked on these efforts. At the afternoon Senate Commerce and Labor Committee meeting, several important bills were debated and voted on, including the right of public employees to decide whether they want union representation. This meeting began around 2 p.m. and lasted until 7:30, testing everyone’s patience, but in the end our interests were supported. We are fortunate in this session to enjoy majority control of the House of Delegates and state Senate as well as the governorship, which we hope will allow most of our issues to be considered favorably.
We regret to report the passing of Brother Michael Bryan (Jan. 15), Sister Ronda Ennis (Jan. 28) and Brother Addison “Max” Goddard (Jan. 30).
Jim Avery, P.S.
