Doug Nelson, Business Manager and Financial Secretary of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 223, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the need for his Local to grow its apprenticeship programs and stay ahead of the growing demand for electrical workers.
Local 223 represents about 500 members in Southeastern Massachusetts.
The Local currently trains about 100 apprentices and has renewed its focus to recruit more members, Nelson said. He talked about the need to work with vocational schools as well as to actively recruit women and minorities to grow membership.
Nelson explained the work opportunities available in sectors such as wind, solar and battery storage, along with the need for highly trained workers to perform this work. The opportunities are endless as long as the economy remains strong, he added.
He also talked about work the Local does with South Coast Rail to make public transportation more accessible in the Boston area.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more about these topics.