Labored Thoughts

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Martin from the North Louisiana Chapter and Martin West from Twin City Electric and deep dive into the collaborative Louisiana "Apprentice of the Year" annual Competition. We also have a special interview with NECA CFO Traci Walker as she walks us through the NECA Board of Governors voting process.

In this episode, the Labor Relations team welcomes NECA's first ever Executive Director for District 10, Robbie Foxen. Listen in and get to know more about his extensive career history in the Outside Line world as well as initiatives and goals to advance the industry.

In this episode of the Labored Thoughts Podcast, Ryan Courtney welcomes back Jef Fagan, NECA's Senior Vice President of Labor Relations and Risk Management, for an in-depth discussion on the risks of punitive damages within labor management process. They explore the limits of collective bargaining agreements, emphasizing the importance of sticking to make-whole remedies and avoiding punitive actions that could undermine the integrity of the labor management process. Jef shares his legal expertise, providing valuable insights for contractors and labor representatives alike. Tune in to learn why enforcing only what's in the contract matters, and how going beyond can open doors to unwanted legal challenges.

In this episode of the Labored Thoughts Podcast, Ryan Courtney sits down with Darrin Golden and Lauren Loughran, key leaders from the National Electrical Benefit Fund (NEBF), to discuss the inner workings of one of the electrical industry's most important resources. They explore the NEBF's journey toward modernization, including its paperless initiatives, cutting-edge cybersecurity measures, and the rollout of the transformative National Electrical Individual Benefit (NEIB).Listeners will also gain insights into the fund's approach to delivering top-notch customer service, the critical role of payroll audits, and the importance of participation agreements. Whether you're a contractor, participant, or industry enthusiast, this episode provides a deep dive into how NEBF serves its members with integrity and innovation.

In this special episode of Labored Thoughts, host Ryan Courtney is joined by NECA’s top policy and labor experts—Marco Giamberardino, Senior Vice-President of Government and Public Affairs, James Payne, Director of Government Affairs, and Jef Fagan, Senior Vice-President of Labor Relations and Risk Management—to dissect the whirlwind of executive actions, policy shifts, and economic implications of President Trump’s return to office. From sweeping tariffs on steel and aluminum to federal hiring freezes, NLRB shake-ups, and controversial funding pauses, this discussion unpacks how these rapid changes impact electrical contractors and the labor landscape at large. With real-time updates and expert insights, this episode offers a critical look at what’s happened so far—and what’s coming next. 

In this episode of the Labored Thoughts podcast, Ian Andrews takes the wheel to dive into the transformative power of Computer Mediated Learning (CML) with industry leaders Greg Greiner, Managing Director of the Electrical Training Alliance, and Tim Hinson, a veteran trustee, and Senior Director of Workforce Development for Miller Electric, a NECA contractor. The discussion explores the evolution from blended learning to CML, its impact on apprenticeship training, and how it addresses workforce challenges in the electrical industry. Tune in to hear about the benefits of asynchronous learning, hands-on training integration, and the future of education in a tech-driven trade. Whether you're a trustee, contractor, or curious listener, this episode offers valuable insights into advancing the next generation of skilled workers.

Whether you're just entering the industry, starting a job with a contractor or chapter, or have decades of experience under your belt, this episode has valuable insights for you. Our guests emphasize one crucial takeaway: the learning journey never ends. 

In this engaging episode of Labored Thoughts, host Ryan Courtney, along with guests Ian Andrews and Jonathan Mandl, delves into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on labor relations and daily productivity. The team discusses various AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, providing insights into how these technologies can streamline tasks, enhance efficiency, and reclaim valuable time. They also explore the potential risks and limitations of AI, emphasizing the importance of using AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human expertise. The conversation is filled with practical examples, thoughtful reflections, and a touch of humor, making it an informative and enjoyable listen for anyone interested in the future of AI in the workplace.

In this episode of Labored Thoughts, host Ryan Courtney and guest James “Jef” Fagan delve into the complexities of the hiring process, focusing on the critical distinction between applicants and employees. They explore the legal ramifications and best practices for employers, particularly in the construction industry, where consistent and well-documented procedures are crucial. Jef emphasizes the importance of having clear, written policies and maintaining consistency throughout the recruitment process to avoid potential legal liabilities. The conversation covers key topics such as fitness for duty tests, background checks, and the necessity of a well-crafted employee handbook that aligns with both the law and collective bargaining agreements. The episode concludes with practical advice for employers, underscoring the need for consistency and careful documentation in hiring practices to protect both the company and its employees.

Welcome back to the Labored Thoughts podcast! We're excited to introduce the NECA Labor Relations Team. Join us to learn how this dynamic team collaborates to tackle challenges, create engaging content, and drive positive change in the industry!

Today I am joined by Kevin Tighe and Larry Bradley to discuss how the NEBF and NEAP consider per diems. Because no road trip is complete without a few detours, we find our way into discussing much more about the NEBF and NEAP than we planned for. Don't miss this one!

This episode runs a little longer than most, but what can I say? Chuck and I got stuck in traffic a few times on our road trip. Listen to find out if we can actually be compensated for all that time sitting in the car! eCFR: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=48d6ee3b99d3b3a97b1bf189e1757786&rgn=div5&view=text&node=29:3.1.1.2.45&idno=29#se29.3.785_133  

Come listen as Chuck provides invaluable advice and insight to one of our industry’s newcomers. Who knows? You might learn something too!

Come take a journey with us as we explore the origins and application of the Letters of Assent for our industry. We even throw in some tips for traveling contractors at no additional charge! 

Ever wondered where the referral practices we have originated? Spoiler! Chuck invented them...OK, maybe that isn't true, but we can answer that question and more in this episode!  Right to work states - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Right-to-work_law  

In this episode, Chuck and I discuss the in’s and out’s of Portability. Come listen to its history and practical application.

Tune in for Part II of the Data Driven Negotiations Topic. In this episode we discuss how to use and legitimize local data. BONUS: We tackle a very common argument faced at CIR at the end so stick around.

In this episode of Labored Thoughts, a panel of NECA Chapter Managers and a Field Representative assemble to discuss the importance of data in their negotiations and how they use nationally available data at the bargaining table. Link to BLS Cost of Living Table: https://www.bls.gov/cpi/data.htm For information on how to use the above table, contact [email protected] 

Come with us on a Labored Thoughts Road trip. We may take some detours, but we always get there!  On this episode, we discuss the interaction of overtime, the FLSA, and your collective bargaining agreements.  FLSA General Overtime Info: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/overtime  FLSA Overtime Pay: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/23-flsa-overtime-pay  FLSA Hours Worked: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/22-flsa-hours-worked