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Why IBEW Local 965 is Hiring a Part-Time Organizer
Over the past year, IBEW Local 965 has been actively involved in three organizing campaigns, two of which were successful. These campaigns require a significant commitment of time and effort from our office staff and dedicated members. This success highlights not only the importance of organizing but also the need to expand our capacity to seize new opportunities and continue growing our union.
The Objects of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers emphasize our mission to "organize all workers in the entire electrical industry," as well as our commitment to improving the lives of workers and their families. Hiring a part-time organizer is a strategic step to uphold this mission and address both the immediate and long-term needs of our union.
The Impact of Act 10 and Its Reversal
In 2011, IBEW Local 965 faced a devastating loss of nearly 200 members due to Act 10, legislation that weakened collective bargaining rights for public sector workers in Wisconsin. This setback not only reduced our membership but also limited our ability to provide the full range of support and advocacy that these workers deserved. ACT 10 was well known for the attack on teacher unions, but it also impacted utility workers at local municipalities across Wisconsin, many of which were represented by IBEW 965.
Recently, the repeal of Act 10 has created a renewed opportunity to reconnect with these past members and help them re-organize under IBEW Local 965. While legal challenges remain, the momentum behind this legislative change represents a strong opportunity to restore union representation for workers who were affected by Act 10. This effort is critical to rebuilding the strength of our union and advocating for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions.
The Need for a Part-Time Organizer
- Reconnecting with Past Members
The reversal of Act 10 opens the door for IBEW Local 965 to reach out to nearly 200 former members and provide them with the tools and support needed to re-organize. This effort requires focused attention, strategic planning, and outreach, making a dedicated organizer essential.
- Addressing Increased Organizing Opportunities
The legal and political landscape is shifting in favor of unions, creating a unique moment to expand our membership and bring the benefits of union representation to more workers. A part-time organizer will help us capitalize on this opportunity by leading new campaigns and supporting efforts to grow our union.
- Sustaining Recent Successes
IBEW 965's success in two out of three recent organizing campaigns in the past year highlights the potential for growth when we commit resources to organizing efforts. A part-time organizer ensures we have the capacity to build on this momentum.
- Fulfilling the Objects of the IBEW
As a union, we are committed to:
- Organizing workers in the electrical industry, including those in public utilities and electrical manufacturing.
- Securing fair wages, reasonable working conditions, and a higher standard of living for all workers.
- Advocating for social, intellectual, and moral improvements for our members and their families.
A dedicated organizer directly supports these goals by growing our union's reach and ensuring that more workers have access to the benefits of collective bargaining.
The Role of the Part-Time Organizer
The part-time organizer will:
- Reconnect with past members impacted by Act 10 and support their efforts to re-organize.
- Engage with current members to strengthen participation and solidarity.
- Lead new organizing campaigns targeting unorganized workplaces in the electrical and utility industries.
- Provide education on the benefits of union membership and the rights of workers under the law.
Solidarity,
Dillon Gorman
Business Manager IBEW 965
715-570-0308
dg@ibew965.com
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