Industry and IBEW News

The Electrical Worker examines Illinois' landmark energy reform legislation, which includes some of the strongest pro-worker provisions in the country for the energy industry. The law, backed by the IBEW and the state's building trades, ensures that the transition to clean energy in Illinois creates and protects union jobs, setting a model other states are beginning to follow.
IBEW International Secretary Treasurer Paul Noble writes in The Electrical Worker about the ongoing fight against right-to-work laws and the union's strategy for protecting worker organizing rights state by state. Noble draws on his experience helping secure the Workers' Rights Amendment in Illinois to make the case for why every state should give workers the full freedom to organize and bargain collectively.
The March 2026 issue of The Electrical Worker reveals the winners of the annual IBEW Photo Contest, which drew hundreds of entries from members across the United States and Canada. The contest, with a first place prize of $1,000, showcases the work, activism, and fellowship of IBEW members through photography submitted from locals across North America.
IBEW Local 124 offered $600K+ sponsorship to restore iconic Western Auto sign with LEDs and lifetime maintenance, but HOA rejected proposal citing other bids without sponsorship requirements
Virginia workers and House Speaker Don Scott oppose legislative effort to eliminate data center sales tax exemptions as state budget negotiations advance