Ep. 9 - Inside the IBEW’s 4th District: Growth, Recruitment, and What It Takes to Lead a Local

In this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of the IBEW’s 4th District meeting in Cleveland, OH. In July 2025, we spoke with the people shaping the future of the electrical industry from Baltimore to Cincinnati and beyond.   You’ll hear firsthand from 12 voices – business managers, apprentices, training directors, and union presidents – opening up about the best and toughest parts of their jobs. From the massive growth in the technology sector to the unique challenges of election-based union leadership to the constant need for qualified workers, our guests offer candid insights and hard-earned lessons from the front lines.   Tune in to this episode as we explore:  (01:14) Building communities with local labor (04:31) Elections benefits and challenges (08:51) Industry shift from owners to employees (10:03) Storm impact on the local workforce (14:17) Managing cross-departmental benefits alignment (17:55) Using Microsoft Forms for applications (22:33) Trust your instincts (26:26) Mentoring growth in apprenticeships (30:18) Improving electricians' work conditions (33:36) Mentoring legacy and workforce challenges (36:00) Bringing people together (38:22) Union guidance and participation challenges (41:49) Continuous learning, safety and the collective good of the industry   Links mentioned in the episode: IBEW 4th District IBEW 4th District Preview Episode   Have feedback or guest ideas? Email us at [email protected]   Learn more at www.eprlive.com