Alan Jones, Business Manager
alan_jones@ibew177.org
Around the Local
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Source:wsj.com
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Developer Aventuur Inc. reports that the $100 million Jacksonville Surf Park project in eTown South Jacksonville is in jeopardy after construction costs increased by over 20% due to geotechnical studies revealing challenging site conditions. The city is seeking to provide a $4.6 million, 10-year Recaptured Enhanced Value Grant to keep the 5.5-acre wave park project on track. The development is expected to create 100 permanent jobs and hundreds of construction positions, featuring a Wavegarden surfing lagoon along with retail, restaurants, and mixed-use development in the 45-acre site at Florida 9B and Interstate 295. Source: jaxdailyrecord.com
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Asado Life, a popular St. Augustine restaurant, will open a location at the Jacksonville Shipyards development anchored by the Four Seasons Hotel project. The restaurant addition represents continued progress on the massive downtown waterfront redevelopment that will transform the historic shipyards site into a mixed-use destination featuring luxury hospitality, dining, residential, and commercial space. The Four Seasons Jacksonville project continues to advance as one of the region's most significant construction and development initiatives, creating substantial opportunities for building contractors and trades throughout the multi-phase build-out. Source: firstcoastnews.com
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A Jacksonville-based development firm has been selected as the master developer for the Kings Landing project in Fort Pierce, expanding the company's portfolio beyond Northeast Florida. The selection demonstrates Jacksonville developers' growing regional influence and expertise in large-scale master-planned community development. The Fort Pierce project represents a significant construction opportunity that will leverage Jacksonville development experience while creating jobs and economic activity in the Treasure Coast region, with planning and construction phases extending over multiple years. Source: jacksonville.com
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Residents in Jacksonville's Oceanway community are organizing opposition to a proposed housing development, citing concerns about increased traffic, infrastructure strain, and neighborhood character impacts. The community resistance highlights ongoing tensions between Jacksonville's rapid growth and existing residents' quality of life concerns in developing areas. The proposed development represents significant residential construction that would add housing units to the northside neighborhood, requiring developer engagement with community concerns and city planning approval processes before construction can proceed. Source: firstcoastnews.com
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The Jacksonville Electric Authority Board unanimously approved construction of a $1.57 billion natural gas-fired combined cycle power plant at the former St. Johns River Power Park site in North Jacksonville. The 675-megawatt facility will generate enough electricity to power 300,000 homes and replace the aging Northside Unit 3, with construction expected to bring the plant online by late 2031 or early 2032. The project includes purchasing a gas turbine from GE Vernova and will employ approximately 40 workers to operate, creating hundreds of construction jobs during the multi-year building phase for contractors and skilled trades in Jacksonville. Source: jaxdailyrecord.com
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Analysis of the intensifying global competition for dominance in energy storage technology, with implications for grid modernization, renewable energy integration, and industrial power systems. The energy storage race involves multiple competing technologies and international players vying for market leadership in batteries, hydrogen storage, and advanced grid solutions. For electrical workers, this competition drives innovation and investment in storage infrastructure that requires skilled installation and maintenance expertise, creating sustained employment opportunities in the rapidly evolving energy storage sector. Source: economies.com
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Nvidia announced its revolutionary Blackwell architecture for data centers, featuring 208 billion transistor GPUs with 10TB/s chip-to-chip interconnects creating unified computing power. The Blackwell platform includes GB200 NVL72 systems delivering 30x faster AI inference than previous generation, with partners including AWS, Dell, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Oracle adopting the technology. The massive data center infrastructure buildout required for Blackwell deployment creates unprecedented construction opportunities for electrical contractors and IBEW members specializing in power systems, cooling infrastructure, and advanced electrical installations for AI facilities. Source: markets.financialcontent.com
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AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler condemned the Trump administration's Office of Management and Budget directive instructing federal agencies to prepare for permanent reductions in force if a government shutdown occurs October 1. Shuler stated that federal workers who keep essential government services running have already suffered immensely from Project 2025 and DOGE agenda chaos, declaring they are not pawns for political games. More than 201,000 civil servants have left the federal workforce, with massive cuts at agencies including Labor, Education, and EPA affecting electrical workers and other union members in federal service. Source: aflcio.org
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Major Chinese technology companies including Alibaba, Tencent, and ByteDance are investing heavily in battery energy storage systems to meet surging power demands from AI data center operations. The shift toward battery backup and storage solutions addresses the massive electricity requirements of artificial intelligence computing while providing grid stability. This global trend in battery storage deployment for data centers creates expanding opportunities for electrical workers skilled in energy storage installation, power management systems, and backup power infrastructure throughout the technology sector. Source: ess-news.com
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Examination of the business case for microgrids with multiple distributed energy resources, demonstrating how these systems deliver measurable economic and operational value through enhanced reliability and flexibility. Multi-DER microgrids combine solar, battery storage, generators, and advanced controls to provide resilient power while reducing costs and improving efficiency. The growing adoption of microgrid technology creates substantial demand for electrical workers with expertise in complex power systems, renewable integration, energy management systems, and the specialized electrical work required for distributed energy installations. Source: energytech.com
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Energy Vault and Pacific Gas and Electric launched the world's first ultra-long duration hybrid microgrid combining battery storage and hydrogen fuel cell technology for extended backup power capability. The groundbreaking system represents a major advancement in energy storage, providing days or weeks of backup power rather than hours from conventional batteries. This innovative hybrid approach requires specialized electrical work for complex power management, hydrogen systems integration, and advanced control systems, creating new opportunities for electrical workers to develop expertise in cutting-edge energy storage technologies. Source: chemanalyst.com
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IBEW International President Kenneth W. Cooper warns that recent legislation eliminating tax incentives for wind, solar, and hydrogen projects will cancel many clean energy initiatives putting IBEW members to work while also increasing electricity bills for American families. Cooper calls the "One Big Beautiful Bill" irresponsible for its impact on working families and union jobs. Source: ibew.org
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International Secretary-Treasurer Paul A. Noble highlights how the IBEW/NECA Family Medical Care Plan addresses rising healthcare costs that now consume 18% of the U.S. economy. The plan, designed by IBEW members for IBEW members, operates without bloated overhead or millionaire CEOs, covering over 190 locals and 450 employers with premiums below industry average while adding or improving benefits 135 times since inception. Source: ibew.org
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IBEW Local 11 celebrates a major victory as the LA Convention Center expansion project moves forward after years of effort. The project will create dozens of immediate job calls ramping up to several hundred positions over the coming months, with completion targeted for the 2028 Olympics. Business Manager Robert Corona credits the powerful labor and business coalition for getting this project across the finish line. Source: ibew11.org
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Melissa Reyes of Charlotte Local 379 shares her unconventional journey from running away at 15 to becoming a respected organizing leader in North Carolina. The daughter of immigrants, Reyes led a major organizing effort at a Westinghouse nuclear fuel plant and now serves as an organizer for Local 379, using her energy, persistence, and commitment to justice to advocate for working families in one of the least union-friendly states. Source: ibew.org
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The Jonesboro Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, in partnership with IBEW Local 1516 and the National Electrical Contractors Association, celebrates the opening of a new 10,200 square foot training facility in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The facility provides additional classrooms and hands-on learning labs, coinciding with the apprenticeship program's approval to reduce from a 5-year/900-hour program to a 4-year/720-hour program. Source: kait8.com
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IBEW Local 1 members banner the new Hampton Inn in Festus, Missouri, protesting the hotel's use of Bates Electric, a non-union contractor paying substandard wages and benefits below Local 1's established rates. Members Rich Niehaus and Dominick Zimmerman take the union's message directly to the public at 1331 Shapiro Drive. Source: labortribune.com
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Electrical Workers Without Borders North America (EWWBNA) is mobilizing IBEW volunteers for humanitarian electrical work, including the "Light Up Navajo" project bringing electricity to approximately 15,000 families living without grid connections on the Navajo Nation. The organization harnesses the skills and goodwill of electrical professionals by fielding volunteers on social-impact projects in disadvantaged communities, helping them adopt renewable energy systems and obtain training to maintain them. IBEW members from Local 3, 611, and other locals are volunteering their expertise under the direction of the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority. Source: ibew.org
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Analysis of employment opportunities created by data center construction boom, with Maryland serving as a key example of job creation in the expanding industry. Research shows that data center construction creates one job for every 275 square feet built, with a typical 800,000 square foot facility supporting 5,000 direct and indirect jobs and generating $775 million in economic activity during construction. The boom creates substantial opportunities for electrical contractors, technicians, and IBEW members in specialized data center electrical work, power systems, and infrastructure development. Source: technical.ly
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Regional counties are working together on initiatives to develop climate-resilient building standards and construction practices that can withstand extreme weather events and environmental challenges. The collaborative effort focuses on updated building codes, energy-efficient electrical systems, and sustainable construction methods that create opportunities for skilled electrical workers in green building technologies. The partnership represents growing demand for specialized electrical work in renewable energy integration, smart building systems, and climate adaptation infrastructure across the region. Source: kcemployees.com
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The United Nations Climate Summit is building momentum toward the COP30 climate conference, with increased focus on global infrastructure investments and renewable energy development that will create significant opportunities for electrical workers worldwide. The summit discussions include massive green infrastructure projects, electrical grid modernization, and renewable energy installations that align with IBEW members' expertise in power systems, solar installation, wind energy, and smart grid technologies. The global climate commitments represent unprecedented demand for skilled electrical labor in the transition to clean energy systems. Source: wmo.int
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Cable company employees have successfully organized and joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, expanding union representation in the telecommunications and cable industry. The organizing victory demonstrates growing momentum for IBEW membership among workers in related electrical and communications fields, providing these workers with union representation, collective bargaining rights, and access to IBEW training programs. The addition strengthens IBEW's presence in the expanding telecommunications sector and provides new members with the benefits of union solidarity and professional development opportunities. Source: midhudsonnews.com
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The AFL-CIO honors the life and legacy of former United Steelworkers International President Leo W. Gerard, who recently passed away after serving 18 years as USW president from 2001-2019. Gerard was recognized as a visionary labor leader who fought tirelessly for workers' rights, safer jobs, better pay, and retirement security. His legacy includes receiving Canada's highest civilian honor, the Companion of the Order of Canada, and having the University of Toronto establish the USW/Leo Gerard Chair in his honor. Source: aflcio.org
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Nvidia Corporation announced plans to invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI as part of a strategic partnership to deploy at least 10 gigawatts of AI data center capacity using Nvidia systems. The massive infrastructure buildout will require millions of Nvidia GPUs and represents one of the largest tech partnerships ever. The first gigawatt deployment is scheduled for the second half of 2026 using Nvidia's Vera Rubin platform, creating unprecedented opportunities for electrical contractors and IBEW members in AI data center construction. Source: bloomberg.com
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State governors are demanding greater control over the nation's largest electrical grid operations as power bills continue to surge across multiple states. The push for increased state oversight reflects growing concerns about electricity costs, grid reliability, and the need for more local input in electrical infrastructure decisions. These regulatory changes could significantly impact utility operations and electrical construction projects, affecting work opportunities and operating procedures for IBEW members working on transmission and distribution systems. Source: reuters.com
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Major technology companies are adopting new strategies to meet the massive electricity demands of their expanding data center operations, particularly in states like Texas and Pennsylvania. The changing approach reflects the growing power requirements of AI computing and cloud services, driving unprecedented demand for electrical infrastructure and skilled electrical workers. These developments create substantial opportunities for IBEW members in data center construction, power system upgrades, and electrical infrastructure projects. Source: apnews.com
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The City of Gainesville honored IBEW Local 1205 with a street naming ceremony celebrating the local's 85th anniversary and its contributions to the community. The recognition acknowledges decades of service by Local 1205 members in maintaining and building the electrical infrastructure that powers the Gainesville area. The street naming represents the strong relationship between the union and the community, highlighting the vital role of electrical workers in supporting economic development and public safety. Source: alachuachronicle.com
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The Department of Energy has released its first formal solicitation for private sector partners to develop AI data centers and energy infrastructure on federal lands, with applications due November 7, 2025. The initiative focuses on four selected sites: Idaho National Laboratory, Oak Ridge Reservation, Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant, and Savannah River Site. This represents significant potential work opportunities for electrical contractors and IBEW members in data center construction and energy infrastructure projects. Source: jdsupra.com
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The Caucus of Rank-and-File Electrical Workers (CREW) publicly launched in September 2025 after two years of organizing, already boasting 300 members across 40 IBEW locals nationwide. The new member caucus aims to build an IBEW that lives up to its potential by empowering rank-and-file workers and promoting democratic participation within the union. CREW focuses on contract campaigns, job site enforcement, and grassroots organizing to strengthen worker power in the electrical industry. Source: labornotes.org
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The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) is raising urgent concerns about reports that the Trump administration is considering privatizing the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which would jeopardize approximately 10,000 IBEW jobs. The union is calling on Congress and Deep South officials to resist such moves, warning that privatization could destabilize an authority that has provided reliable, affordable electricity since 1933 and employs thousands of skilled electrical workers across seven states. Source: peoplesworld.org
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IBEW Local 11 hosted longtime labor ally Representative Adam Schiff in a demonstration of solidarity and political engagement. The event highlights the ongoing relationship between electrical workers and supportive political leaders who champion union interests and workers' rights. The gathering represents the union's commitment to building political alliances that advance the interests of electrical workers and the broader labor movement. Source: ibew11.org
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Microsoft unveils ambitious plans for what it claims will be the world's most advanced AI data center, representing a massive infrastructure project that will create significant opportunities for electrical contractors and IBEW members. The facility will require extensive electrical work, including advanced power systems, cooling infrastructure, and specialized electrical installations to support cutting-edge artificial intelligence computing operations. The project exemplifies the growing demand for skilled electrical workers in the expanding AI and data center sector. Source: blogs.microsoft.com
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Two Entergy electrical workers were injured when a transformer exploded in The Woodlands, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in electrical utility work. The incident underscores the dangerous conditions that electrical workers face daily and the importance of rigorous safety protocols, proper training, and protective equipment in utility operations. The event serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in electrical work and the need for continued vigilance in worker safety practices. Source: click2houston.com
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Comprehensive overview of artificial intelligence's environmental impact, including energy demands of data centers and potential climate benefits through optimized electrical systems and renewable energy integration. The analysis covers implications for electrical infrastructure development and the role of skilled electrical workers in building sustainable AI systems while addressing climate concerns. Source: yaleclimateconnections.org
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IBEW Local 1 celebrates the graduation of its 2025 apprentice class, marking the completion of comprehensive electrical training programs that prepare new journeymen for careers in the electrical industry. The graduation represents continued investment in workforce development and the next generation of skilled electrical workers, ensuring strong union membership and expertise for future electrical construction and maintenance projects. Source: labortribune.com
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IBEW Local 138 members in Detroit have completed a comprehensive electrical rewiring project at the Hamtramck Historical Museum, demonstrating union commitment to community service while showcasing skilled electrical work in historical preservation. The project involved updating aging electrical systems while maintaining the building's historical integrity, highlighting the specialized skills of IBEW electricians in restoration work. Source: ibew.org
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IBEW Local 553 members in Durham, North Carolina are organizing to protect workers from potential ICE raids on construction sites, developing strategies to defend immigrant workers' rights while maintaining jobsite safety and productivity. The initiative reflects growing concerns about workplace enforcement actions affecting the electrical construction workforce and union solidarity efforts to protect all workers regardless of immigration status. Source: wnylabortoday.com
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Meta faces challenges balancing rapid AI infrastructure expansion with sustainability commitments, as massive data center construction increases energy demands while the company pursues carbon neutrality goals. The expansion creates significant opportunities for electrical contractors and IBEW members in data center construction, renewable energy integration, and advanced electrical systems installation. Source: ppc.land
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Analysis examining how artificial intelligence systems, despite their high energy consumption for data centers and processing, may ultimately lead to net energy savings through optimization of electrical grids, smart building systems, and industrial processes. The implications for electrical workers include both challenges from automation and opportunities in deploying AI-enhanced electrical infrastructure and smart grid technologies. Source: ft.com
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IBEW International President Kenneth W. Cooper reports that 2025 is on track to be a record-breaking year for membership growth. Speaking at the Construction and Maintenance Conference, Cooper emphasized the union's resilience and called for continued unity and organizing efforts to strengthen the IBEW's position in the evolving electrical industry.
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IBEW Secretary-Treasurer Paul A. Noble addresses the current challenges facing organized labor in America. Noble discusses the importance of Labor Day as a time to reflect on workers' rights achievements while acknowledging the ongoing struggles unions face in protecting and advancing workers' interests in today's political climate.
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The IBEW warns that proposed changes to labor regulations could negatively impact worker safety and union rights. These regulatory modifications threaten to make jobsites less safe for IBEW members in construction and mining while making it more difficult for workers to organize and maintain union protections.
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A new lineworker training facility is being developed in Tennessee to meet the growing demand for skilled electrical workers. The training center will provide comprehensive education and hands-on experience for aspiring lineworkers, helping to address workforce shortages in the electrical utility industry while maintaining IBEW's high standards for safety and craftsmanship.
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Members of IBEW Local 659 in Medford, Oregon successfully implemented the union's Code of Excellence to quickly resolve project startup challenges. The collaborative approach and professional standards outlined in the Code of Excellence helped streamline operations and demonstrate the value of skilled IBEW craftworkers to contractors and clients.
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Anti-Trump administration protesters will take to the streets on Labor Day Monday in worker- and wealth-focused rallies organized by the AFL-CIO and dozens of other groups. The protests focus on challenging policies that favor billionaires over working families, with demonstrations planned to coincide with traditional Labor Day celebrations across the country. Source: axios.com
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Unions and progressive organizations are coordinating nearly 1,000 "Workers Over Billionaires" demonstrations across the United States for Labor Day 2025. The May Day Strong coalition is leading the national day of action to protest the Trump administration's policies affecting workers' rights, with events planned in cities and towns nationwide to advocate for working families over wealthy interests. Source: theguardian.com
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The AFL-CIO has announced its 2025 Workers' Labor Day campaign calling for "Freedom, Fairness and Security" for working families. Hundreds of thousands of workers will rally in cities across the country during Labor Day week to demand better working conditions, fair wages, and the right to organize. The campaign emphasizes that workers deserve the protection and power that comes with union membership. Source: aflcio.org
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Grid operators are deploying synchronous compensators and advanced technologies to maintain grid stability as renewable energy sources increase. These rotating machines provide essential grid inertia and frequency control that traditional power plants once supplied, helping prevent blackouts in high-renewable grids. Source: bloomberg.com
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New York utilities are implementing grid-enhancing technologies to improve transmission efficiency and reliability while reducing costs for ratepayers. These advanced systems optimize power flow, reduce congestion, and enhance grid monitoring capabilities without requiring extensive new infrastructure construction. Source: utilitydive.com