Last month, I had the honor, along with President Cooper, of attending the annual conference of the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus in Seattle. There, we recognized the contributions of IBEW activists who helped open doors and blaze a path for generations of Black, Latino, Asian and other workers who have long been underrepresented in our ranks.

As we celebrate Black History Month, I was especially inspired by the many Black activists and leaders I met at the conference who contribute so much to the strength and future of the IBEW. One EWMC activist, Philadelphia Local 98 member Elaine McGuire, is featured in this issue, where we share the story of her efforts to bring more women and people of color into the trades.

President Cooper and I will be returning to the West Coast this fall for the IBEW’s 41st International Convention. Since we last met in Chicago in 2022, the IBEW has made tremendous progress — from breaking new organizing records to deepening our commitment to community engagement and political action. This convention will be an opportunity to take stock of what we’ve accomplished and chart the course ahead.

It’s fitting that we are meeting in San Diego. For much of the last century, open-shop San Diego was a center of anti-unionism in California. Today, thanks in large part to the hard work and persistence of IBEW members, it has become a proud union city. From overturning a long-standing ban on project labor agreements to growing our market share across the city, the IBEW’s commitment to workers’ rights, excellence and community is on full display. Our upcoming convention is a chance to celebrate that transformation.

The convention’s theme — Powering a Brighter Future — captures the work before us. The decisions and debates that take place there will shape our union for generations to come. The task ahead is enormous, but I am confident that our delegates will come together in a spirit of unity, seriousness and shared purpose to build an even stronger IBEW.

You will be receiving more information from your local in the months ahead, including details on how to run for delegate. Please check with your business manager for more information. We will also share updates in the pages of The Electrical Worker and on IBEW.org.

This is your union, brothers and sisters. As the highest authority in the IBEW, our International Convention is your opportunity to raise your voice and help shape the future of this brotherhood.

I’ll see you in San Diego.