IS THERE A BETTER WAY TO MAKE A LIVING AS AN ELECTRICIAN?

Find out for yourself!

Organizing into a union will assist you and your fellow employees in training,

giving you a voice on the job,

in gaining dignity and respect, and

in providing a secure future.

Every other transaction, from buying a car, securing a loan, or hiring a contractor, requires a contract - the rules to be followed -  so why shouldn't your work conditions and hourly pay be covered by a contract too?

The more everyone sticks together - The stronger each individual becomes.

Read about the experiences from a few of our newest organized members

Patrick Smith		Dave Stines		Brad Myers
Organized From      Patrick Smith Electric		Organized From        A-1 ElectRicks		Organized From            Tol-Test, Inc. Electric  (former employee of    Electric Services)
"I had worked for a few non-union contractors in New York state.  I was underpaid, overworked and felt dispensable.  The quality of my life has improved.  The benefits have included healthcare, pensions,  steady work. and a fair rate of pay.  There is definately less stress and anxiety in my life."		The biggest improvements since joining the union include "better benefits, working conditions, and money." "It's a better job."		"The biggest improvement that I have seen thus far is the level of professionalism and committment dedicated towards the members." "I contacted the IBEW to get the right training and for a excellent benefits package.  But most importantly for my future."
"The union work environment is a lot different to non-union.  Safety on union jobs is paramount.  Sometimes it feels over stringent, but it's a lot better than having to avoid walking around a site trying to avoid debris, nails on boards, etc."		"All of the people are like family" in the union work environment. "It's not like a family found" in the non-union.		"I enjoy having a safe work environment with all the resources to do the job correctly." "I have solid backing from the IBEW all across the board."
"I would say the biggest misunderstanding is that the union is anti-employer.  My experience is that it is not and that the union does work well with the electrical contractors that have signed a labor agreement." "I do feel a sense of brotherhood.  Members look out for each other all the time on the jobsites.  The Business Agents and Organizer have been extremely helpful and considerate.  It feels that there is definately someone watching your back, working non-union, it was rarely there."		What advice would you give to those working non-union: "Go Union!"		"I feel the IBEW would benefit anyone looking for a career in the electrical industry where trust, compensation, and training come first."  Before joining the union, "Basically the only training I had before was on the job training, now I have that coupled with in- class training." What advice would you give to those working non-union: "Contact the local union representative to see what the union can offer."
"Joining the union meant for me having access to healthcare, which I haven't had for years.  Knowing that I am working and paying into a pension fund is comforting, and I feel that the future holds promise when I do decide to retire.'		Click here to see THE UNION DIFFERENCE		The IBEW
What advice would you give to those working non-union: "I would ask them to ask themselves, where do they see themselves in five years?  Will they feel that they view the future with hope or anxiety?  Will they feel that they have learned and grown in their knowledge of the electrical industry?  Will their wages increase in that time?  I would just say that for me, joining the union has brought stability and security to my life!" When it comes to training, "the quality of work in the various electrical installations is exceptional!"		It's The Law You don't have to be in a union to make demands from your employer under "concerted activity." Find out more here:  The Right to Organize   Union Rights are here: Organizing Rights     Testimonials		How many of your bosses were trained for years (for free) by the IBEW, reaped all of the benefits, and then decided to open up a non-union electrical contracting business, without giving anything back? The union was ok for them when they were being trained and learning a life long  trade, but now it isn't good enough for you?
"My life has definately improved.  I have healthcare, a pension lies ahead after my working days are over.  In regards to learning and training , the opportunities are there via the joint apprenticeship committee and training center."				Voice@Work   Education & Training

How many employers out there worked in the union when it was beneficial for them, but now find it unneccessary for you?

Contact us about organizing your workplace, questions about your legal rights on the job, or general information about the IBEW by sending us in confidence an e-mail at organize@ibew725.org or calling 812-323-0064 or 812-877-4239.

Please e-mail us or call and ask to speak to a  business agent for assistance.

We will respond and as soon as possible.  We look forward to talking with you soon.  Thank you! 

THERE IS A BETTER WAY TO WORK AS AN ELECTRICIAN.