The final day of the 2007 IBEW Membership Conference brought a review of last year’s big organizing victories and a final send-off that inspired and energized delegates to take up the challenge of organizing with their own members.
“Our long efforts are finally beginning to bear fruit,” said Special Assistant to the President for Membership Development Buddy Satterfield during the opening session. Brian Ahakuelo, Director of Professional and Industrial Organizing and Kirk Brungard, Director of Construction Organizing updated delegates on organizing victories in both construction and in industrial sectors. Ahakuelo told delegates about the campaigns from Alberta to Texas that are halting the decline in “BA” members. “The tide is turning and we’re winning victories in every jurisdiction in the Brotherhood,” Ahakuelo said.
In construction, the IBEW has seen a major growth in members and signatory contractors thanks to the success of state organizing initiatives, like in Florida and the Carolinas, Brungard said. There are also major drives just starting to get underway in Michigan and Arizona.
“At the end of the day, it is the talented local leaders and organizers who are getting the job done,” Brungard said.
Author and motivational speaker, Gary Zelesky spoke to delegates on the subject of passion and purpose, calling on them to renew their commitments to their IBEW brothers and sisters and maintain a positive attitude.
In his final comments to the conference, Satterfield spoke with determination, reminding delegates of the importance of the job they’ve been assigned. “Make no mistake this is a war…the decline of unions and the middle-class threatens the very foundations of our democracy.” But he added, “We have the means and leadership to make it happen. I know you will take back what you’ve learned and bring the good word of the Brotherhood and organizing back to your membership.”
