Apprentice to Leader | IBEW 103 Boston’s Lou Antonellis on Union Power & the Future of the Trades

What does it actually take to go from apprentice to leading one of the strongest unions in the country?In this episode, I sit down with Lou Antonellis — Business Manager of IBEW Local 103 in Boston, journeyman wireman, and a 35-year union member — to break down what’s really happening inside the trades right now.We get into leadership, the disconnect between the hall and the field, and why trust and communication matter more than ever in today’s labor movement. Lou also talks about navigating a modern social media world as a Gen X union leader, and what it takes to fight for real opportunities, strong apprenticeships, and long-term careers in the trades.This isn’t surface-level talk. This is boots-on-the-ground perspective from someone who’s lived it, led it, and is still pushing it forward.If you’re in the trades, thinking about joining, or just want to understand how unions actually operate behind the scenes — this one matters.Based on insights and leadership principles shared by Lou Antonellis and IBEW Local 103.#IBEW103 #BostonUnions #UnionStrong #ElectricianLife #ConstructionCareers #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeship #LaborMovement #BlueCollar #SpankyTheSparky