Talk to Our Organizing Specialist!

Aaron Woodard

IBEW 1340 – President/Business Representative
Phone: (757)875-1340
Email: [email protected]

I will be at the Hall every Tuesday from 10:00 AM to
7:00 PM. Feel free to stop by if you have any
questions.

Contact Me!

Stronger Together:
Partnering with the IBEW

Right now, Newport News officials are working on an ordinance that would allow all city workers to come
together and form their union.

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) has a long history of fighting for working peoplein Virginia and across the country. As this effort moves forward, the IBEW wants to be your first choice inbuilding a union that will give every Newport News city worker the strong voice they deserve.

 

 

members strong

100000 +

years of advocating
for workers

0

A UNION FOR

A Chance TO THRIVE

RETIREMENT SECURITY

A voice at work

BETTER WAGES

JOB SECURITY

GREAT HEALTHCARE

Why are Workers choosing the IBEW?

Key Facts

Increased Bargaining Power

Affiliation gives the Association greater leverage at the bargaining table. Our union brings:

  • Experience in negotiations
  • A history of securing strong contracts
  • The strength of a broader membership base that employers are more likely to take seriously
Access to Resources and Expertise

The IBEW offers support that most small, independent associations cannot match, including:

  • Legal teams for grievances, arbitration, and labor law issues
  • Professional negotiators and researchers
  • Contract analysis and wage comparison resources
  • Training programs for stewards and local leaders

The IBEW provides crucial support during disciplinary actions or disputes:

  • Representation in grievances and arbitration
  • Legal defense in complex or high-stakes cases
  • Strategic guidance during strikes, lockouts, or contract violations
  • Stability through an ever changing legal landscape
Financial Stability

The IBEW has the financial capacity to support legal battles, organizing efforts, and emergency needs—without overburdening local funds.

Solidarity and Networking

Being part of the IBEW opens the door to:

  • Collaborating with workers in similar roles or industries
  • Sharing successful strategies
  • Building a united front across workplaces for common goals
Connection to the AFL-CIO Labor Movement

Affiliation with the IBEW is tied to the AFL-CIO, and gives the Association:

  • A place in the national labor movement
  • Broader influence in local, state, and federal policy discussions
  • Greater political clout to protect and advance workers’ rights
Improved Benefits and Member Services

Affiliating with the IBEW offers enhanced services for members, such as:

  • Health and welfare benefit programs
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Member discounts and insurance options
  • Retirement planning assistance
Support with Existing Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs)

An experienced union partner like the IBEW can:

  • Help enforce current contracts
  • Prepare effectively for upcoming negotiations
  • Ensure continuity and compliance with labor laws and contract terms
Advocacy on Local and State Issues

The IBEW has professional lobbyists and policy experts who:

  • Monitor legislation affecting workers
  • Advocate for pro-labor policies
  • Defend against harmful changes to pensions, wages, or public sector protections
Preserve Association Identity

Affiliation does not mean assimilation. Many associations maintain:

  • Their name and local identity
  • Leadership structure
  • Voice in how representation is delivered
  • The Association remains local and member-led, while benefiting from the strength of a trusted national partner.
Management-Free Affiliation Process
  • The decision to affiliate is made between the Association alone—free from employer interference. This ensures the process is democratic, transparent, and in the best interest of the workers.

 

WHO IS THE IBEW? Manufacturing Emerging Technologies Power Generation Community Municipalities Telecommunications Customer Service  Utility Workers Tree Trimming Production Families Broadcast Railroad Construction Energy Call Centers Gas Workers Maintenace You Service Contract Government Workers Instrumentation Operations Nuclear Cooperatives 870,000 strong

Workers like you are part of the IBEW

Click on the branch to see examples of just some of the workers we represent
Cities / Municipalities

City of Alameda
City of Berkeley
City of Fernley
City of Gridley
City of Healdsburg
City of Lodi
City of Lompoc
City of Oakland
City of Redding
City of Roseville
City of Santa Clara
City of Shasta Lake
City of Ukiah
City of Vallejo
City of Willits
City of Anaheim
City of Banning
City of Colton
City of Long Beach
City of Moreno Valley
City of Riverside
City of San Bernardino

Water Agencies / Irrigation Districts / Water Boards

Bella Vista Water District
Merced Irrigation District
Modesto Irrigation District
Paradise Irrigation District
Resort Improvement District #1 (Shelter Cove)
South San Joaquin Irrigation District
South Feather Water and Power
Turlock Irrigation District
Yuba Water Agency
Panoche Water District
Sweetwater Authority
Trabuco Canyon Water District/ Bargaining Unit
City of San Bernardino Water Board/ Water Department Unit
Imperial Irrigation District

Electric / Power Utilities

Alameda Municipal Power – City of Alameda
Island Energy – City of Pittsburg
Lassen Municipal Utility District
Northern California Power Agency
Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD)
Western Area Power Administration
Pittsburg Island Energy (Duplicate of Island Energy – City of Pittsburg)
LADWP (Los Angeles Department of Water and Power)
PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric
SDG&E San Diego Gas and Electric
Southern California Edison

Transit Agencies

Public transportation providers:
AC Transit (Alameda County Transit)
Sacramento Regional Transit
MTS (San Diego Transit Corp.)

Other Public Agencies / Special Districts

Greater Vallejo Recreation District
Port of Oakland
Tri-Dam Project
United States Bureau of Reclamation
The New Children’s Museum

Grouped Labor Units / Bargaining Units

City of Anaheim / Part-Time Customer Service Employees
City of Anaheim / Professional Management & Part-Time Management Unit
City of Banning / General Unit
City of Banning / Utility Unit
City of Colton / Electric Unit
City of Colton / Water and Wastewater Divisions
City of Long Beach / General
City of Moreno Valley / General Unit
City of Riverside / Supervisory Unit
City of Riverside / Utility Unit
City of San Bernardino Water Board / Water Department Unit
Trabuco Canyon Water District / Bargaining Unit

Did you know that the IBEW is comprised of workers from a wide array of industries and back grounds? Our Union is unique in that it is a mix of so many industries and workers. Comprising of thousands of workers across the U.S. and Canada that stand together to better their work life. Our diversity brings us the strength and resources to help workers in this multitude of industries.

A Workforce Represented By The IBEW Means Having A Voice In Your Healthcare Your Safety Your Hours Your Wages .

watch our members on the job

TRANSMISSION & LINEWORK

cooperatives, utilities & generation

CLEAN ENERGY

RAILROAD

GOVERNMENT & MUNICIPALITIES

TELECOM & BROADCASTING

MANUFACTURING

CONSTRUCTION

the facts about unions

Knowledge is Key

Whether you are an experienced veteran or brand new to unions, educating yourself on your rights is key. There are many myths that exist about how a union functions and rights of its members. The interactive chart shares accurate information that will help you in your decision making process.

Know Your Rights
The Dirty Dozen
Union Facts
Important Links
my IBEW story
A smiling man with short hair and a neatly trimmed beard, wearing a light blue button-up shirt. He is posing in front of a map, and the image is framed in a circular format.

Being a part of the IBEW has benefited not just me and my family here — my wife and three children, Kaidance, Liam, and Emery — but also my family still in Brazil, my mom and brother. The opportunity to have a great career, with a future to look forward to along with a dignified wage and outstanding benefits, has allowed me to provide comfort and security for all of my loved ones. In the IBEW, anybody who wants a better quality of life and a bright future has an opportunity to attain it — it depends only on you.

Jeimeson Saudino

Construction Organizer/Inside Journeyman Wireman - Wichita, Kan., Local 271

“I began in the trade at Lockheed Shipbuilding while attending the University of Washington, quickly working my way from ship scaler to journeyman electrician through the IBEW. For nearly 50 years, I’ve balanced work in the shipyards with a career in economic development, always keeping my IBEW membership. The union gave me the opportunity to support my family, gain skills, and build lifelong friendships. Even now, at almost 75, I’m still proud to be working in the shipyards, grateful for the knowledge, community, and stability the IBEW has provided throughout my life.”

Tamer Kirac

journeyman marine electrician, Seattle Local 46

“After eight years as a hairstylist, I realized during the pandemic that it wasn’t my true calling. With encouragement from my husband, a union member, I discovered the IBEW’s VDV apprenticeship. I didn’t get in on my first try, but after gaining experience at a solar farm, I was accepted in July 2024. Since then, I’ve found real satisfaction in my work, learning new skills every day, earning recognition, and finally having a schedule that gives me balance. Being part of the IBEW has given me stability, confidence, and a future I’m proud of.”

Zoe McCormack

VDV installer/technician apprentice Rockford, Ill., Local 364

“After realizing college wasn’t for me and spending years in food service, I wanted a career where I could use both my mind and hands. I applied to the IBEW apprenticeship, and though I didn’t get in at first, I gained experience and was accepted. Now in my second year as a sound apprentice, I’ve found stability, great training, and a supportive brotherhood. The IBEW has given me financial security, health benefits for my family, and the chance to own a home in San Diego — opportunities I never thought possible.”

Shawn Barton

installer/technician apprentice San Diego Local 569

“After more than 20 years as a dealership mechanic with no retirement and constant job insecurity, I knew I needed a change. Joining Southern California Edison — and the IBEW — gave me stability, a voice on the job, and the chance to build a real future. Today, I have retirement security, vacation time to enjoy with my wife, and opportunities I never thought I’d have. The IBEW has given me more than just protection — it’s given me new chapters in life.”

John Doe

Garage foreman Diamond Bar, Calif., Local 47

“After 10 years as a federal wildland firefighter, I was exhausted from long hours, low pay, and constant financial stress. Joining PG&E and the IBEW in 2020 changed everything. I now earn a fair wage, have union benefits, and can support my family without relying on endless overtime. Best of all, I have time to be home with my wife and kids, take real vacations, and enjoy life. The IBEW gave me stability, community, and the balance I’d been missing.”.

Daniel Lassotta

safety infrastructure protection team technician

“At 21, I was diagnosed with a rare cancer, and my nonunion employer refused to adjust my schedule for treatments. I left and worked odd jobs until I found the IBEW at Raytheon. With union representation, I paid off my medical debt, got quality health care, and gained peace of mind. Today, I’m thriving in a higher-paying job, proud to serve as a steward, and grateful for the solidarity and support of Local 1505.”

Courtney Estacio

Waltham, Mass., Local 1505

“The IBEW truly saved my life. After incarceration, I struggled to find work that could support my family — my own son was hired before I could get a job. With the help of Denver Works and Local 111, I found not just a job but a career. The IBEW gave me pride, stability, and the chance to be a role model for my sons. Today, I’m active in union committees, financially secure, and part of a brotherhood that changed my life and future for the better.”

Michael Rollerson

heavy equipment operator Denver Local 111

begin my ibew journey

For Families

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Unions help workers earn better wages through collective bargaining. That extra income allows families to afford safer housing, healthier food, reliable transportation, and opportunities like college savings or vacations — all of which contribute to a better quality of life at home.

Better Work-Life Balance

Union contracts often include protections for fair scheduling, paid time off, and guaranteed breaks. This gives working parents more time to be present in their families’ lives — whether it’s attending a child’s school play, helping with homework, or just sharing dinner together.

Affordable, Reliable Healthcare

Union-negotiated benefits frequently include comprehensive health coverage for the entire family. That means fewer out-of-pocket medical costs, access to preventive care, and peace of mind knowing children and spouses are protected if health issues arise.

Job Security and Protection from Unfair Treatment

Unions ensure that workers can’t be fired without just cause and have a grievance process if they’re treated unfairly. This job stability helps families plan for the future and shields them from sudden job loss or retaliation, creating a more secure home environment.

Support for Education and Training

The IBEW is committed to providing resources that help families build long-term opportunities, allowing both workers and their children to grow and succeed through education.

Advocacy for Family-Friendly Laws

Unions don’t just negotiate with employers — they also advocate for policies that benefit all working families, like paid family leave, affordable childcare, and public education funding. Their political voice helps shape a society that better supports parents and kids alike.

Higher Wages Mean Greater Financial Stability

Unions foster solidarity and support, not only in the workplace but also in the wider community. From food drives and scholarship funds to helping members in times of crisis, unions create a culture of care that families can rely on in good times and bad.

For Communities

Economic Growth:
Strengthened worker-employer relationships foster a stable and productive workforce. Increased employment opportunities and job security contribute to a more resilient local economy.

Local Prosperity:
Healthy employer-employee partnerships lead to higher wages and improved living standards.
Increased disposable income within the community stimulates local businesses and services.

Social Cohesion:
Positive workplace relationships spill over into the community, promoting a sense of belonging and unity.
Shared values and mutual support create a socially connected and harmonious environment.

Skill Development:
Strong worker-employer collaboration encourages skill development and continuous learning.
A skilled workforce attracts new businesses and industries, further diversifying the local job market.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship:
Supportive employer-employee dynamics encourage innovation and creativity. This atmosphere can lead to the emergence of local entrepreneurs and startups, contributing to community development.

Community Involvement:
Engaged employers and workers are more likely to participate in community initiatives. Volunteerism, community projects, and corporate social responsibility activities strengthen the overall fabric of the community. A strong worker and employer relationship, therefore, has a ripple effect that goes beyond the workplace, positively impacting the community at large.

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For Workers

Fair and Competitive Compensation:
The union can negotiate fair wages and benefits for individual employees, ensuring that they receive competitive compensation within the industry.
This fosters job satisfaction and loyalty, contributing to a stable and motivated workforce.

Improved Working Conditions:
The union can advocate for improved working conditions, including safety measures and health benefits.  Better working conditions not only enhance the individual employee’s well-being but also contribute to a healthier and more productive work environment.

Job Security:
Through negotiations and collective bargaining, the union can work to secure job protection measures.
Increased job security provides peace of mind for individual employees and promotes a stable workforce for the company.

Professional Development Opportunities:
Collaborative efforts between the company and the union can lead to the establishment of training and development programs. These programs benefit individual employees by enhancing their skills and employability while supporting the company’s need for a skilled workforce.

Employee Representation:
The union serves as a representative for individual employees, ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making processes. This empowerment contributes to a positive workplace culture and helps the company address employee concerns proactively.

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a voice at work

When workers come together as one, they gain a voice at work, with a say in wages, benefits, and  work rules. Without a union, everything from your paycheck to scheduling is at the whim of  management. But collective bargaining gives you power.

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better wages

Union members make more money. On average, union workers make nearly 20% more than nonunion workers according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s because a union contract gives workers the power to make sure they are paid their fair share.

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job security

An IBEW contract means protection for your job. Unions help safeguard you against arbitrary employer actions. They also mean the power to fight for a better work-life balance.

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Great Healthcare

Union workers enjoy comprehensive and affordable family healthcare. The IBEW negotiates strong health benefits, so workers can access the care they need  without worrying about the costs.

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Rights To Organize

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Worker Rights

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Forming A Union

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For You

Mutual Success and Stability:
Shared Prosperity: A positive and collaborative relationship fosters an environment where the success of the manufacturing company is intertwined with the well-being of its employees. When the company succeeds, it can share the benefits with its workforce through fair compensation, performance bonuses, and other incentives. This creates a sense of shared prosperity, aligning the interests of the employees and the company.

Long-Term Partnership: A stable and cooperative relationship between the company and the union sets the foundation for a long-term partnership. This stability allows both parties to plan for the future with confidence, knowing that they can rely on each other for support and collaboration. Long-term partnerships contribute to the overall sustainability and success of the business.

Adaptability and Resilience: In the face of economic challenges or industry changes, a mutually supportive relationship between the company and the union allows for collective problem-solving and adaptation. Joint efforts in navigating uncertainties can lead to more resilient strategies and solutions that benefit both individual employees and the company as a whole.

Employee Engagement and Commitment: When employees feel that their interests are considered and valued, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to the company’s success. A positive work environment resulting from the collaborative efforts of the company and the union promotes a strong sense of loyalty and dedication among employees, contributing to the overall stability of the workforce.

Open Communication Channels: Mutual success relies on transparent and open communication channels between the company and the union. Regular dialogue allows for the identification of common goals, the resolution of issues, and the continuous improvement of working conditions. Transparent communication builds trust and strengthens the foundation for a relationship based on mutual success and stability.

Competitive Advantage: A manufacturing company that can demonstrate a harmonious and mutually beneficial relationship with its workforce through the union gains a competitive advantage in the market. This positive reputation can attract top talent, enhance customer trust, and appeal to investors who value responsible and collaborative labor practices.

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For Manufacturing

Improved Communication:
Open and transparent communication between the company and union fosters trust and understanding. Timely sharing of information reduces misunderstandings, leading to smoother operations and better collaboration.

Enhanced Productivity:
A harmonious relationship encourages a cooperative approach to problem-solving and process improvement. Union workers, when engaged positively, are more likely to contribute to efficiency and productivity gains within the manufacturing processes.

Workforce Stability:
A positive relationship with the union helps in maintaining a stable and motivated workforce. Reduced labor turnover and increased job satisfaction contribute to consistent production levels and lower recruitment costs.

Conflict Resolution:
Effective labor-management collaboration facilitates quicker resolution of disputes and conflicts. Addressing concerns promptly helps maintain a positive work environment, preventing disruptions to production schedules.

Employee Well-being:
A harmonious relationship promotes the well-being of union workers through fair wages, benefits, and working conditions.
This, in turn, enhances employee morale, engagement, and commitment to the company’s success.

Competitive Advantage:
A positive relationship with the union can be a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Demonstrating a commitment to fair labor practices and collaboration with the workforce can enhance the company’s reputation and appeal to customers and investors. A harmonious relationship with union labor, therefore, not only contributes to a positive workplace culture but also brings tangible benefits to the manufacturing company in terms of productivity, stability, and competitiveness.

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Retirement Security

Union workers enjoy stronger retirement security than their nonunion counterparts. In fact, nearly 100% of union members have retirement benefits through their job.

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opportunity to thrive

The IBEW takes pride in being the best-trained  workforce around, and we are committed to ensuring that all our members have the chance to grow professionally. The IBEW offers the most comprehensive training in the entire electrical industry, which means more career opportunities for you.

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