IBEW
The Electrician's Labor Union

BEW International, or the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, is the labor union for electricians in various countries of the world including Canada and the United States.

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers represents various specialties in the field such as electricians, linemen, and telecommunication workers.

This labor union plays an important role in securing good working conditions, generous benefits, and ample pay for its members.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers has been in existence for many years, having been founded in 1891, shortly after electricity became commonplace in homes and businesses.

It affiliated with the AFL-CIO and survived the rocky years of the early 1900s when employers tried to drive unions away. In fact, this labor union flourished and grew to over one million members by the 1970s.

Throughout its growth, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers broadened its scope to include new fields of expertise such as industrial electronics and nuclear power. Education and safety continue to be at the forefront of their mission. They conduct apprenticeship programs for linemen, electricians, and low voltage installers.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers is instrumental in helping new electricians get a start in the field. They work in conjunction with other organizations in the industry such as the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee and the National Electrical Contractors Association. This helps ensure new electricians are trained to the same standard, and learn specific tasks and safety procedures.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers is active in political lobbying as well in an effort to protect members' benefits and maintain optimum working conditions. Studies have shown that members of labor unions usually enjoy better benefits and job security. Being a member of IBEW and working at a union jobsite puts the power of the union on your side in case of disputes. As a union electrician, you can't be fired without just cause.

Whether you are just starting out in the industry or are an experienced electrician, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers labor union can protect and benefit your career. Not all job sites are affiliated with IBEW International and if that is your situation, you can always try to get your workplace organized with the help of the union. Employers today are not as unfriendly to labor unions as in times past, but there is often friction between the two since employers want to cut costs and unions push for better salaries and benefits for workers.

The good news is that as a member of the IBEW International, you don't have to stand up to an employer by yourself. The union bargains collectively for better conditions for its members. This puts the power of a group behind your demands for improved wages and benefits, and increases the chances of an employer taking the desired action.

Being a member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers gives you rights as a worker so you are treated with the respect you deserve and are compensated fairly for the dangerous work you perform. The IBEW works tirelessly for member wages, rights, and benefits, but you will benefit from being a member in other ways as well. Being a member of a local union allows you to network so you can find out where the better jobs are and learn about educational opportunities. You'll have a forum for venting your frustrations and a procedure in place for having your disputes handled fairly.

Union dues fund the work of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. This means you will have to pay dues on a quarterly or yearly basis when you become a member. You may also have to pay an initiation fee. Unions are non-profit organizations and use the funds to benefit members, so your dues go directly towards benefiting you or a fellow member of IBEW International. Joining International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and participating on the local club level could be a great way to protect your career and foster relationships in the industry.