Linemen wanted: IBEW targets potential professionals through national and local programs.(SECTIONS: T&D)

The shortage of electricians we're anticipating has received national attention in recent years. And with good reason. While the country's growing dependence on electricity will almost certainly necessitate a major overhaul of the long-neglected power grid, a large percentage of experienced baby boomers are nearing retirement and high school graduates are increasingly choosing white collar industries over skilled trades. There simply are not enough people entering the electrician industry to satisfy the demand for these skilled workers.

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers recognizes this impending crisis and is working to reverse the trend. A variety of initiatives target new entrants to the field, and recruit non-union professionals to the organization for career development and the benefit of the entire industry.

Electrifying careers

Education is not only the key to teaching IBEW members skills they need to progress their careers, but also to attracting new entrants to the electrical industry. With unparalleled educational programs that focus on training, productivity and safety, IBEW produces the most qualified electrical professionals in the business.

IBEW conducts many awareness campaigns and maintains a variety of engaging websites to help people who are considering becoming electricians to learn more about the field and find the right path for themselves. It all starts with informing people about the industry and the choices they will have if they pursue a career.

ElectrifyingCareers.com helps students and their parents understand the opportunities available in the electrical industry and shows them how to get started on a path that will lead to a rewarding career. HelmetstoHardhats.com targets people leaving the military, a group that often has the good employment habits and team mentality that help them thrive in the construction industry. Finally, IBEWHourPower. com provides a broad overview of the union along with some things that are just plain interesting. This site helps those unfamiliar with the organization understand its purpose.

These online outreach programs are the first step in attracting employees to the electrical industry because they provide the information people need to make smart decisions about their future. But as rich as these sites are, they're useless if people don't visit them. To drive people to these sites, IBEW conducts large-scale focused marketing campaigns to reach those most likely to be interested in the electrical industry. Advertisements in major trade magazines reach people who might not belong to the union and could further their skills and career with the training IBEW offers. Pre-apprenticeship programs give young people a 10-week introduction to the industry on weekends ...