. . . . CONT'D

and setting his own style of leadership was Ken Rose, an electrician from the railroad industry. Ken, known for his passionate speeches on behalf of the IBEW, was a true trade unionist and elected to the Vice President position in 1974, 1978, 1982, and again in 1986. Brother Rose, following a dispute between the building trades unions and the Canadian Labour Congress, was instrumental in forming the Canadian Federation of Labour in 1982. In 1987, Ken Woods became Vice President and remained as leader of the IBEW in Canada until October 1997. Ken had a passion for the IBEW and working people in Canada few leaders have matched. In 1997, Ken was instrumental in leading the IBEW and many of the building and construction trade unions back into Canadian Labour Congress after a 15-year absence. Following Ken Woods retirement, Don Lounds was the next International Vice President for the 1st District. As his predecessors, Brother Lounds was a great leader during his tenure.

In October 2003 Phil Flemming became our International Vice President, presently making him the top IBEW Officer in Canada. Nominations and election for this position take place every five years by delegates from our Canadian locals at our International Convention. The Canadian representative to the International Executive Council is also elected at that time.

Vice President Flemming convenes the IBEW national conference held every year in various areas of the country. These conferences are called the "IBEW All Canada Progress Meetings". Discussion, education, and debate form the nucleus of our Progress Meeting to better our industry and enhance the participation of our members and local unions in the Canadian labour movement and broader society.

IBEW Canada has put an emphasis on general union education, organizing, involvement in union benefit programs, and encouraging local unions to establish committees on political education, health and safety and training.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, AFL-CIO, CLC

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