Alan Jones, Business Manager
alan_jones@ibew177.org
Around the Local
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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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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
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Google has partnered with Kairos Power to develop 500 megawatts of advanced small modular nuclear reactors by 2035, with the first unit coming online by 2030. The deal represents a major tech company investment in clean, reliable baseload power to meet growing AI and data center energy demands. Source: foxbusiness.com
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Industry expert argues that skilled trades offer the most secure career path in an era of automation and remote work, as these jobs require hands-on expertise and physical presence that cannot be replicated by AI or performed remotely. Electrical work, construction, and other trades remain essential and irreplaceable. Source: forconstructionpros.com
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Federal agencies are scaling back scientific integrity policies designed to protect researchers from political interference in climate and environmental studies. The changes affect how federal scientists conduct and communicate research related to energy policy, environmental regulations, and infrastructure planning. Source: washingtonpost.com
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IBEW Local 11 District 5 reports on the implementation of Community Workforce Agreements that ensure union representation on major construction projects, marking significant progress in securing quality jobs and fair wages for electrical workers in the region. Source: ibew11.org
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Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro highlights his administration's creation of 165 new apprenticeships and training of 34,000 apprentices across industries, emphasizing how union growth supports Amazon's $20 billion data center investment creating opportunities for IBEW electrical workers. Source: msn.com
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IBM positions quantum computing as equally transformative as artificial intelligence, with implications for future technology infrastructure and data center development that will require specialized electrical work and skilled IBEW technicians for installation and maintenance. Source: globalventuring.com
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Analysis of artificial intelligence's role in advancing sustainability goals, exploring how major tech companies like Google and IBM are leveraging AI technologies to optimize energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact in data centers and infrastructure projects that employ IBEW members. Source: sustainabilitymag.com
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NECA CEO David Long discusses the current state of the electrical construction industry, addressing workforce challenges, sustainability initiatives, and the partnership between NECA and IBEW in meeting growing demand for skilled electricians across America. Source: youtube.com
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IBEW Local 1837 members held an informational picket at Eversource's Manchester headquarters following months of stalled negotiations for their first contract covering System Operators who manage transmission and distribution electric grids across Eversource's New Hampshire service territory. Source: manchester.inklink.news
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A union electrician and vice president of IBEW Local 915 becomes the first Democrat to announce candidacy for Florida Senate District 14 special election, bringing labor union perspective and working-class advocacy to the political race. Source: floridapolitics.com
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The IBEW community rallies to support the family of a lineman tragically killed in a helicopter accident while performing utility work, launching a fundraiser to provide financial assistance for his surviving son and help cover education and living expenses. Source: riverbender.com
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New York City's Pathways to Industrial and Construction Careers program provides essential tools and resources to electrical apprentices, supporting IBEW training initiatives and helping workers succeed in their electrical trades education and career development. Source: wnylabortoday.com
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IBEW Local 1393 announces plans for potential strike action against Duke Energy Indiana, representing nearly 1,000 union members who rejected the company's final contract offer by a 2-to-1 margin after negotiations that began in January stalled over wages and working conditions. Source: msn.com
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Communities in coal-dependent regions, including areas of Pennsylvania, confront the dual challenges of climate change impacts and economic transition as the energy sector evolves, requiring comprehensive strategies for environmental justice and workforce development. Source: selc.org
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An IBEW member shares their personal journey addressing mental health challenges in the electrical industry, working to reduce stigma and encourage fellow workers to seek help, as part of the union's broader commitment to member wellness and support programs. Source: ibew.org
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The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers community mourns the tragic loss of a union member killed in a helicopter crash in West Alton, highlighting the dangerous conditions electrical workers sometimes face in utility and construction operations. Source: labortribune.com
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Five projects by IBEW/NECA Electrical Connection contractors receive recognition as finalists in the prestigious Associated General Contractors Keystone Awards, with Guarantee Electrical and PayneCrest Electric earning honors for construction excellence, continuing a tradition of 115 IBEW/NECA projects honored since 1997. Source: labortribune.com
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Workers at Framatome's Richland nuclear fuel production facility successfully vote to join the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, motivated by desires for better working conditions, workplace safety improvements, and stronger voice in employment matters. Source: tricitiesbusinessnews.com
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Ceiba Groupe affiliate secures a $40.2 million construction loan for a new 227-unit multifamily and built-to-rent project along Main Street in Jacksonville, representing significant investment in the city's growing residential market. Source: costar.com
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Multiple construction and development projects advance across Northeast Florida, showcasing the region's continued growth in commercial, residential, and infrastructure sectors with significant economic impact for local communities. Source: jaxdailyrecord.com
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Construction progresses on the $50 million Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine facility at Jacksonville University, set to become Northeast Florida's first four-year medical school with classes beginning July 2026 for 75 inaugural students. Source: jacksonville.com
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St. Johns County approves permits for new surgery center and additional multifamily development projects in St. Augustine area, supporting healthcare infrastructure expansion and residential growth in the rapidly developing region. Source: bizjournals.com
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IBEW President Cooper addresses critical challenges facing electrical workers and the union's commitment to protecting member interests against industry pressures. Source: ibew.org
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IBEW explores strategic partnerships in the renewable energy sector, focusing on securing union jobs in solar projects while addressing industry challenges and competition. Source: ibew.org
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Secretary-Treasurer Noble discusses workplace mental health challenges and hidden injuries affecting electrical workers, emphasizing the union's commitment to comprehensive member wellness. Source: ibew.org
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IBEW announces new training initiatives designed to prepare members for emerging opportunities in advanced manufacturing, ensuring the union stays competitive in evolving industrial sectors. Source: ibew.org
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Reader correspondence highlighting positive outcomes and achievements within the IBEW community, showcasing member experiences and union impact stories. Source: ibew.org
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An international wholesale food distributor, code-named "Project Moana," has received city approval for $2.5 million in tax incentives to build a $90 million distribution warehouse in Jacksonville. The project includes $80 million for construction and $10 million in machinery and equipment, with plans to retain 480 existing jobs and create 100 new positions. The 275,000-square-foot food distribution facility represents a significant investment in Jacksonville's logistics and industrial infrastructure. Source: jaxdailyrecord.com
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The Pearl Square development within the Gateway Jax mixed-use district is progressing with construction and design work visible throughout the project site. This major development represents part of Jacksonville's ongoing urban redevelopment efforts, featuring mixed-use buildings that combine residential, commercial, and retail spaces. The project contributes to the transformation of Jacksonville's downtown and urban core areas with modern infrastructure and amenities. Source: jacksonville.com
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Parkway CandA, LP applied on behalf of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for a $27 million building permit on July 2 to construct Jacksonville's first Mormon temple at 3325 Loretto Road. The 29,000-square-foot facility will include rooms designed for specific religious events like marriage and baptism, built on a 6.6-acre parcel the Church purchased for $7.15 million in early 2024. The project represents the largest religious construction project currently planned in Jacksonville. Source: firstcoastnews.com
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A $14.8 million University of North Florida building project has received state budget support and leads a list of Jacksonville-area construction projects championed by local lawmakers. The project represents significant investment in higher education infrastructure and demonstrates continued state support for university expansion in the Jacksonville region. This funding will contribute to UNF's campus development and enhance educational facilities serving Northeast Florida students. Source: jacksonville.com
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Gateway Jax has begun construction on its second apartment project within the $750 million mixed-use district development. This multifamily construction represents continued progress on one of Jacksonville's largest urban redevelopment initiatives, adding residential density to the downtown area. The project contributes to Jacksonville's goal of increasing downtown residential options while creating a walkable, mixed-use community that combines housing, retail, and office space. Source: multifamilydive.com
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Otto Aviation has announced plans to establish a new manufacturing facility and corporate headquarters in Jacksonville, representing a significant aerospace industry investment in the region. The project will bring advanced aviation manufacturing capabilities to Jacksonville while consolidating the company's operations in Florida. This development strengthens Jacksonville's position as a growing aerospace and advanced manufacturing hub, creating high-skilled jobs and supporting the region's diversified industrial base. Source: globenewswire.com
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China is dramatically outpacing the United States in clean energy development, with more wind turbines and solar panels installed last year than in the rest of the world combined. China's clean energy boom is going global, with Chinese companies building electric vehicle and battery factories across multiple continents. This development has significant implications for IBEW members as it shapes the global energy landscape and affects domestic energy infrastructure projects and employment opportunities in the electrical sector. Source: nytimes.com
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Washington state leaders have criticized the Republican-led repeal of clean energy tax credits, warning that these cuts could threaten the AI boom and increase energy costs. The roundtable discussion highlighted concerns about how eliminating clean energy incentives could impact data center development and artificial intelligence infrastructure projects. For IBEW members, this represents potential changes in both renewable energy construction jobs and the growing data center electrical work sector. Source: geekwire.com
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The Environmental Protection Agency is planning to rescind its endangerment finding on greenhouse gas emissions, which could fundamentally change federal climate and energy regulations. This policy shift would eliminate many environmental restrictions on power plants and industrial facilities, potentially affecting the types of electrical infrastructure projects that IBEW members work on. The change could impact both renewable energy development and traditional power generation sector employment opportunities. Source: insideclimatenews.org
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Extreme heat events are placing unprecedented stress on electrical power grids, creating both challenges and opportunities for the electrical workforce. Heatwaves increase electricity demand for cooling while simultaneously reducing transmission efficiency and stressing equipment. For IBEW members, this trend represents growing demand for grid maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, and emergency repair work as utilities work to maintain reliable service during extreme weather events. Source: sustainabilitymag.com
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An analysis examining whether renewable energy sources have actually reduced electricity prices for consumers, with implications for energy policy and market dynamics. The study explores the complex relationship between renewable energy deployment and electricity costs, considering factors like grid integration costs and market structures. For IBEW members, understanding these price dynamics is crucial as they affect both employment opportunities in different energy sectors and the long-term viability of various electrical infrastructure projects. Source: theclimatebrink.com
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An investigation into how artificial intelligence operations and data processing are contributing to climate emissions through massive energy consumption. AI systems require enormous amounts of electricity for training and operation, creating both environmental concerns and significant opportunities for electrical infrastructure development. For IBEW members, the AI boom represents a major growth sector requiring specialized electrical work in data centers, power distribution, and cooling systems to support these energy-intensive computing operations. Source: time.com
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IBEW electricians across Maine are experiencing significant job losses as green energy projects stall due to federal incentive cuts. Maine's clean energy progress has slowed as solar projects stall, with unions reporting around 100 jobs lost due to canceled contracts and a 40 percent decline in apprenticeship applications. The uncertainty around federal tax credits is causing companies to delay or cancel renewable energy projects that had been in development, directly impacting IBEW members and union growth. Source: newscentermaine.com
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The Trump administration's ambitious AI development plan calls for massive data center construction that will significantly impact US energy infrastructure. President Donald Trump's plan to boost artificial intelligence and build data centers across the U.S. could speed up a building boom that was already expected to strain the nation's ability to power it. The initiative promises substantial work opportunities for IBEW electricians in data center construction, power plant development, and grid infrastructure upgrades needed to support AI computing demands. Source: apnews.com
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As energy demand continues to surge driven by AI data centers and industrial growth, energy experts warn against favoring particular energy sources over others. The rapid increase in electricity needs requires an "all-of-the-above" approach that includes traditional and renewable sources to ensure grid reliability. This balanced perspective is particularly relevant for IBEW members who work across all energy sectors, from coal and natural gas plants to solar and wind installations. Source: msn.com
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IBEW Local 11 highlights the union's critical role in building America's electrical infrastructure for the future. The article emphasizes how IBEW members are leading the transition to new energy technologies while maintaining grid reliability and safety standards. From renewable energy installations to smart grid technology and data center construction, IBEW electricians are at the forefront of modernizing America's electrical systems and ensuring the skilled workforce needed for emerging technologies. Source: ibew11.org
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IBEW Local 3 members have been recognized for their volunteer work with Electricians Without Borders, demonstrating the union's commitment to humanitarian electrical work. The program sends skilled electricians to provide essential electrical infrastructure in underserved communities both domestically and internationally. This recognition highlights the professional expertise and community service ethic that IBEW members bring to critical electrical projects beyond their regular employment. Source: nycclc.org