We had the chance to sit down with Steven Chang, an NIETC apprentice, MMA fighter, and passionate advocate for IBEW Local 48.

Originally from Tokyo, Steven’s journey to becoming an apprentice in the trades is as inspiring as his career in MMA. He balances the demanding life of a fighter with the responsibilities of being a dedicated husband and father to two young daughters—his oldest is 10 and in 4th grade, while his youngest is four and in daycare.

Steven’s deep commitment to the union and his belief in the power of hard work and community shine through in everything he does. To learn more about Steven’s unique journey and the impact of IBEW Local 48 on his life, read on.

How did you first get involved with the NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center (NIETC)?

I was a professional MMA fighter and a coach, but at 39 years old, I knew my career was coming to an end. So, I started looking for something that would be both fulfilling and rewarding. My wife was the one who found the IBEW Local 48 website and showed it to me. As I started looking into it, the more I read, the more intrigued I became. It wasn’t just about the work or compensation—it was the history of the IBEW, the union, and what it meant for the American working class and the country as a whole that really drew me in. From that moment forward, I made it one of my life goals to become a union electrician.

And you’re originally from Japan?

I’m from Tokyo, specifically the Shinagawa district. I moved here when I was almost 17, in 2003. When I first arrived, I didn’t know any English. I could barely speak it—I only knew about 10 words. It was really, really difficult.

But I’m telling you, Americans are some of the nicest people, with the biggest hearts. There are so many great things I can say about this country that it would take way longer than this interview to explain. Every country has its faults, of course, but this country has given me nothing but opportunities and has accepted me with open arms.

“I’m going to be 40 later this year, and I’m still learning, still a student, still an apprentice. I want to show my daughters that with hard work, dedication, and working smart, you can change your life and go in any direction you choose.”

I also want to take a moment to mention my wife. She’s a senior analyst at Comcast now, but her story is incredible too. Her parents are refugees from Cambodia. When my wife’s mother was pregnant with her, they had to flee Cambodia, running through the mountains to the Philippines to escape the Communists. They lived through unimaginable horrors—death, starvation, and everything else you can think of. But they managed to escape just in time. They made it to Thailand, then to the Philippines, where they stayed for several months, maybe up to a year, in refugee camps until the U.S. granted them a visa. America saved their lives, and they came here to start over.

She’s been a huge inspiration to me, and she’s supported me through everything. She’s been there since my first amateur fight, helping me in ways I can’t even explain. None of this would have been possible without her. And like I mentioned earlier, she’s the one who introduced me to the IBEW.

With two wonderful daughters and a supportive and successful wife, how has your experience at home shaped the way you work with female colleagues in the trades?

The women I’ve met in this industry are amazing. They’re incredibly smart and it’s inspiring to see. A lot of times, you’ve got men twice their size, so you’d think they’d be able to get more done, lifting things, and all that. But women are just as capable—they’re smart, and they can do things just as efficiently, or even better, in many cases.

“I’ll tell you what, brotherhood and sisterhood are definitely real, and it’s amazing. I’m surrounded by some of the most inspiring, hardworking, and smart people—some of them are really competitive, too. But they’re also a lot of fun to be around, whether it’s on the job site or with my classmates. It’s fantastic. I’m so happy and fortunate to be part of this community.”

What does the IBEW Local 48 union mean to you?

I can’t stress enough what the union means, not just to me, but to working Americans and to American history. For people who are against unions, I hope they take the time to educate themselves. I try to reach out to them, especially since I have a bit of a social media following. In fact, the last few of my fights were actually sponsored by the IBEW Local 48, because I was already in the program when I took the fight.

That sponsorship opened up a lot of dialogue. People would DM me asking about the IBEW, saying, ‘Are you really in the program? Is this union thing really as good as they say, or is it as bad as others claim?’ People already have opinions, but they want to hear from someone who’s involved. I engage with them—whether their questions are positive or negative. I always answer as honestly as I can and direct them to resources where they can learn more. I believe I’ve changed a lot of people’s minds, or at least planted the seed, and I think that’s really important.

I think it’s vital for us to unite, and yeah, I’ve become an advocate for it. People don’t always understand the sacrifices made for this. People literally died for these rights—some had their homes burned down, some were killed for being union members. It’s crazy, but it’s real. And a lot of people overlook that. I wish they didn’t. I wish more people understood how important this is. For all that I know, I try to spread the word as much as I can.

Did you have a math or science background that helped prepare you for the program?

Not really, but I’ve always enjoyed working around the house and building things. Whenever we had a problem at home or needed to build something, like a new shed, I’d order a book from Amazon, look up the code, and just build it myself. It was supposed to take me two weeks, but it ended up taking the whole summer, and then some. But I was proud of it. I replaced the kitchen sink, the bathroom sink—just whatever needed fixing around the house. I really enjoyed working with my hands, even if it took longer than it should have. My wife noticed that, and she thought, ‘Why not try this professionally?’

When you first started, what was that like? Was it mostly classes, or was it a mix of classes and work?

I started working pretty much right away. We had a boot camp for the first two weeks, which involved a lot of evaluations. It taught me a lot of things I didn’t know—like the terminology, industry terms, the laws, and everything. I was really, really green at the time. But they were okay with that. They just wanted to make sure I had the right mindset—willing to learn, open to instruction, and able to follow directions. They wanted to see my aptitude and whether I was genuinely interested in the opportunity. Once I proved that, we started working right away.

What’s a typical day look like?

A typical workday for me starts at 4:55 a.m. I wake up, get ready for the day, and make sure I hydrate well. I also make sure I have some carbs to fuel myself. I have a little ritual on the way to work. I drive in complete silence, drink my hot tea, and start thinking and visualizing what I might do that day. I think about the challenges I might face and reflect on things I might have messed up the day before—thinking about how I can do better and improve myself.

Once I get to work, I focus on two main things: accuracy and quality. Speed is important too, but at this stage of my career, those first two are my top priorities. As for school, depending on the time of year, I go once a week for an 8-hour day. After work, I study for an additional 3 to 3.5 hours on the same day, and I spend 5 to 6 hours on the weekends studying more. Outside of work and school, I spend most of my time with my family or in the gym.

This sounds a lot like the routine of a professional athlete. You’re thinking about food, mental preparation—do you see what you did as an MMA fighter coming into play with this?

I’d say so. Not just as an MMA fighter, but for martial arts in general. I think a lot of skills definitely transfer over. For example, if you want to be a competitive athlete—especially an MMA fighter—hard work and dedication are a must if you want to be successful. Despite what people might think, MMA is a thinking man’s sport. You have to train your mind before you train your body. Otherwise, you really don’t stand a chance.

You also have to be open to change and new information at any given time. Things evolve, trends change—you have to be ready for new moves, new tactics. You need to be constantly studying yourself and your opponent. And most importantly, you have to be open to coaching. I think the mindset of being a lifelong student is incredibly beneficial, whether you’re in the ring or in a trade like this.

When did you get started in MMA, and how long were you in it?

I first discovered MMA after I grew up learning traditional martial arts in Japan for self-defense, starting in middle school. One day, I saw an MMA fight on TV and thought to myself, ‘This is crazy!’ I was amazed by it, and I told myself I wanted to have at least one amateur fight before I die.

“In MMA, you need a support team around you to get better. You can’t do it all on your own. You need to learn from others, and you need people supporting you—like coaches, managers, and of course, fans.”

Years later, I came to America, and I’m so grateful to be here, but at first, I didn’t have the financial means to train. So, I had to wait until around 2012 before I could start training again. A couple of years after that, I finally decided to cross off that bucket list item and had my first amateur MMA fight. I ended up winning, and my young, naive self thought, ‘Maybe I’m good at this!’ So, I kept training and kept fighting.

One thing led to another. I won a couple of amateur championships, got some sponsors, and then I was discovered by a management team. They helped me get licensed, and I eventually turned pro.

Are you still competing in MMA?

Long story short, I might have one more fight. My older daughter has seen me fight, but only online or on TV after the fact. I never let her watch me fight live because I feel like taking my family to a fight is too stressful for them—and for me, too.

But my daughter started wrestling about two years ago, and she really enjoys it. Recently, she asked me, ‘Hey, dad, can you compete one more time, at least live, for me?’ So, I’m still training every day. I’m still coaching both kids and adults. I actually volunteer once a week to coach kids, and I get paid to coach adults, including professional and amateur fighters.

I’m still training hard, and I know I’m in good shape. I’m thinking about doing one more fight for my daughter, but that’s really it.

What’s volunteering with kids been like?

There’s a program at my gym, American Top Team in Portland, and they offer kids’ classes every day, Monday through Saturday. They need coaches, and while the program itself isn’t free, since the gym needs to make money, I dedicate my time for free. I don’t feel comfortable accepting money for helping kids.

Martial arts really saved my life and gave me the confidence I needed to keep going. I didn’t have the best childhood either. I grew up with a lot of challenges—poverty and other struggles. It wasn’t the worst, but it wasn’t easy. I see some of these kids in class who might be going through similar things. Maybe they lack role models, maybe they’re bullied, or maybe they’re smaller than the other kids. When I work with them, I can see them growing—not just in skills, but as people. They’re becoming stronger versions of themselves, and I can glimpse a bright future for them.

What advice would you give someone who’s considering entering this trade?

Of course, studying math and other subjects is important, but I think it ultimately comes down to mindset. You need to reprioritize your life in a way that works best for you and become a master of time management. 

I know that being in this trade and being an apprentice can be time-consuming—it’s a lot to take on. But I believe dedication and impulse control are key. You can make time by cutting out things that aren’t necessary or important.

My first piece of advice is that, and secondly, I would say—more than anything—learn to love learning. Grow a true passion for learning, and develop a passion for the trade. If you do that, you’re going to be fine.

About Steven Chang

You can explore more of Steven’s MMA history on his Instagram page. There, you’ll find past fight highlights, career milestones, and a look back at his journey in the sport.

Get ready to celebrate the remarkable women who have helped innovate and grow our electrical infrastructure! The annual Women in Construction Week (WIC Week) shines a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of female workers in the energy sector and offers informative events. Let’s come together to honor and be inspired by the expertise and ingenuity women bring to the table!

What is Women in Construction Week?

WIC Week has a long, rich history, with ties to the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). Originally started in 1953 by 16 women in the industry, the precursor to (NAWIC) was formed to create a support network. Today, 115 chapters across the U.S. offer members education resources, networking opportunities, and guidance to hone their technical and leadership skills. In 1960, WIC Week was introduced as part of the NAWIC and became an official yearly celebration in 1998, taking place the first week of March.

While construction was often considered a male-dominated industry, the landscape is changing. The significant 34% increase in female employees in the field since 2014 is a sign of progress. Thanks to the efforts of organizations like NAWIC and the resilience of boundary-breaking women in the field, organizations and individuals are challenging assumptions and employment trends, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse industry.

This is How Women are Advancing the Electrical Industry

Women are not just helping, but crucially advancing the electrical sector, a key part of the construction industry. Their contributions in recent years have been significant and inspiring. 

Closing Labor Gaps

Energy demand is accelerating. In 2023, energy consumption jumped 2.2%, a higher margin than the 1.5% increase between 2010 and 2019. Electricity is a crucial aspect of construction infrastructure—from data centers to EV installations, commercial building electrification, and green-focused technology—and an increased electrical labor force is necessary to keep up with production. 

On average, there are 80,000 fillable positions nationwide for electrical professionals annually. To meet demand, the Pacific Northwest could see 16% employment growth in Oregon and 18% in Washington by 2030. As more women gain access to training and resources, they enter the workforce, accelerating productivity and shrinking labor shortages.

Closing Wage Gaps

Wage inequality is a reality across professions. On average, women earn $0.84 for every $1.00 men make. When more women hold leadership roles in the electrical sector, wage inequality narrows. They advocate fair pay and advancement. However, recent data shows that women in the electrical field experience more equitable pay: $0.99 for every dollar versus the national average. 

Creating Opportunities for Future Generations

While the trend of women working in the electrical sector shows growth, there is still a need for a talented female workforce. Women are​​ integral to the electrical industry. The need for experienced electrical professionals will only grow, and women will play a prominent role in energy innovation and expansion. Today’s female leaders in the industry are increasing representation, inspiring more women to enter the field and ensure an advanced energy future. 

Championing Women in the Electrical Industry

The NECA–IBEW partnership supports a highly skilled workforce and female innovators who make impactful contributions to communities across Oregon and Southwest Washington. 

We invite you to join a vibrant community that fosters professional growth and accelerates career advancement. Our members gain access to cutting-edge innovation, specialized training, valuable networking opportunities, and exclusive resources designed to help them thrive in their fields.

The combined knowledge and experience of NECA and IBEW Local 48 create an unmatched resource for anyone looking to thrive in the electrical industry. Get details about membership, benefits, and more.

We invite you to check our Member Spotlights highlighting women in the industry! 

Learn about Kennitha Wade, Electrician & NIETC Instructor, Michelle Thomas, IBEW Local 48 Journeyman, and Bridget Quinn, Workforce Development Coordinator at NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center. 

Join the NECA-IBEW Local 48 community and sign up for our newsletter to receive industry news, resources, and more.

It’s no secret that energy demands will increase in the coming years. As a result, tech companies are looking for ways to handle demand while supporting sustainability goals. 

In certain areas of The Pacific Northwest, small modular reactors (SMRs) offer innovative solutions to the energy sector. Keep reading to find out more.

What are Small Modular Reactors?

Small modular reactors (SMRs) are today’s cutting-edge evolution of traditional nuclear power systems. They have a smaller footprint, produce less nuclear waste than larger reactors, and are completely modular.

Unlike nuclear-based energy systems in the past, SMRs don’t require as much construction or land allocation. Plus, SMRs use far less carbon than larger systems. Smaller reactors typically have a power output of 300 megawatts of electricity per plant, compared to 1,000 megawatts of traditional models. This demonstrates that smaller reactors can still produce sufficient energy while being more compact and manageable.

SMRs Support Carbon-Neutral Energy Sources

Small modular reactors produce energy in the same way as traditional reactors. Heavy atoms are split through nuclear fission into smaller ones, which release energy as heat. Harnessing this power can generate electricity without reliance on carbon-based sources. 

What makes SMRs much more environmentally friendly is their scalability, which enables them to expand with energy demands and serve diverse populations—from commercial to residential. SMRs can also integrate into other renewable power sources, like wind and solar, further reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, SMRs don’t require frequent refueling. Some are designed to last 30 years without a refuel. Others can go 3 to 7 years without needing extra fuel. Unlike conventional plants, which require refueling every 1 to 2 years, SMRs can operate for longer periods without requiring frequent refueling. 

How SMRs Are Powering Pacific Northwest Data Centers

Data centers across the PNW are growing, and companies are looking for innovative, carbon-neutral solutions. SMRs have the potential to meet the ever-expanding energy needs of data centers while serving sustainability goals and reducing utility costs. 

Nuclear Power in The Pacific Northwest Today

Exciting changes are coming to the energy sector in the PNW through SMRs. Their low-carbon power and reliable energy meet the region’s clean energy goals. Combining local energy innovators with the technology industry also positions the PNW as a pioneer in advanced nuclear solutions. 

Check out what’s on the horizon!

Data Center Energy Innovation in the Tri-Cities

In late 2024, Amazon announced its goal to invest in nuclear technology to power its data services. As Amazon seeks to grow its data centers to meet demand, it has also announced a goal to become zero-net carbon by 2040. To achieve these objectives, Amazon plans to fund four SMRs by 2030 in Washington State to address the energy needs of the data center boom.

Safety Initiatives in Nuclear Energy

Some states across the U.S., including Oregon, currently have a block on new nuclear infrastructure. However, SMRs have come a long way from the massive reactors of the past. According to data from Energy Northwest, SMRs will produce a low rate of 50 megawatts and won’t exceed 300. The compact size of SMRs also creates a more stable environment because they are less likely to overheat and do not require human assistance to instigate a shutdown. These safety features contribute to making SMRs a reliable and secure energy solution.

The Role of the Energy Sector 

With Amazon’s large-scale SMR project breaking ground in the coming years, electrical professionals will be integral to setting up and maintaining systems. Nuclear electricians and contractors will be in high demand, with roles ranging from integrating renewable energy to testing equipment and making system modifications. Their expertise will be essential in shaping the future of the energy sector.

The NECA/IBEW Partnership: Innovating The Pacific Northwest’s Energy Future

For more than a century NECA and IBEW Local 48 members have been at the heart of powering Oregon and Washington. Through this enduring partnership, we’ve built the region’s electrical infrastructure and paved the way toward a sustainable energy future.

By joining our community of skilled professionals, you become part of a legacy of excellence, innovation, and continuous growth. Driven by craftsmanship, leadership, and a commitment to progress​​, we’re shaping a brighter, more efficient future for The Pacific Northwest. Get details about membership, benefits, and more.

Industry professionals and community members are likely familiar with the term “building electrification”, a growing trend that plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable infrastructure and green building practices. By transitioning buildings to all-electric systems, this shift is helping to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and support environmentally-friendly architecture.

But what does building electrification mean for the workforce and residents of the Pacific Northwest? In this article, we’ll dive into the impacts and opportunities this trend presents for our region’s economy, job market, and communities. 

What is Building Electrification? 

When broken down to basics, building electrification is the process of replacing higher-energy-consuming appliances—such as propane, gas, or fuel oil—with energy-efficient electrical options. 

What are the Top Appliances Ready for Electrical Innovation? 

Whether in a commercial or residential building, many appliances can be easily replaced with electrical counterparts.

• Water Heaters
• HVAC Equipment 
• Stoves
• Heat pumps

Why the Shift to Building Electrification Matters 

Building operations contribute to 31% of energy-related carbon emissions. Switching to cleaner energy via electricity can go a long way toward promoting decarbonization. Decarbonizing buildings by utilizing electricity has many benefits, from personal safety to energy savings. 

• Healthy Environments: Gas appliances can emit harmful air pollutants, including nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and benzene. In fact, these levels in residences have been attributed to 13% of all childhood asthma. Since gas appliances vent outdoors, air quality outside is affected. Switching to electric and renewable resources can provide healthier air for everyone.
• Reduced Climate Impact: Total carbon emissions from fossil fuels rose again in 2023, reaching 36.8 billion metric tons. Carbon dioxide is correlated with increasing global warming concerns. Mitigating reliance on fossil fuel-based energy goes a long way toward preventing adverse environmental effects. 
• Energy Cost Savings: Appliances that run on electricity, like heat pumps, are more energy efficient, reducing energy costs.

Building electrification promotes sustainability because electric appliances don’t produce direct combustion emissions. Plus, these appliances can be integrated into renewable energy resources, reducing indirect greenhouse gas emissions. 

What is Power Over Ethernet?

One emerging electrification technology is “power over ethernet (PoE).” PoE allows data and power supply connections to be delivered via a single, dedicated cable. It can eliminate the need for separate power supplies, additional outlets, and cord clutter. PoE is an exceptional and environmentally friendly option because buildings can often use their existing network cables, and new cables are quick and easy to install. 

How Can PoE Benefit Sustainable Building Initiatives? 

PoE allows buildings to connect devices to networks and simultaneously power them. This proves especially beneficial in powering day-to-day devices, including: 

• Security cameras
• IP phones
• PA systems
• Point of sale terminals
• Wireless access points
• LED lighting
• Virtual desktop infrastructure 

Integrating PoE into buildings’ infrastructure means fewer carbon emissions and next-level energy efficiency. For example, using PoE tech is transforming a 1930s building into a green-focused hotel. The Sinclair in Forth Worth, Texas can power over 2,000 lights and other amenities while reducing energy consumption by 30% to 40%!

How Electrical Professionals Drive Innovative Trends in the Pacific Northwest

Across the region, buildings are turning to sustainable architecture practices, and the electrical sector is helping meet those goals. 

Washington State is leading the nation in replacing gas devices with electrical alternatives, creating the path toward building electrification. In Oregon, a massive, all-electric mixed-use building is slated to be completed in 2024. It will offer EV charging parking spaces and boast 70% more energy efficiency than other buildings in the area. 

Modern sustainability technologies are revolutionizing the electrical industry. Electrical professionals will be needed to install and maintain complex systems, assist in energy management solutions, and keep up with evolving demands. 

Discover the NECA/IBEW Local 48 Partnership

For more than 100 years, NECA and IBEW Local 48 have been integral to the development of Oregon and Southwest Washington’s electrical landscape. Together, they have shaped the region’s electrical infrastructure and led the way in industry innovation. Through this powerful partnership, members benefit from ongoing education, specialized training, valuable industry resources, and more.

Interested in learning more about membership opportunities? Explore how membership can help advance your career and connect you to a legacy of excellence.

At Mill Plain Electric, safety isn’t just a priority—it’s a core value that drives everything they do. Leading the charge in safety is Steve Huson, the company’s Safety Coordinator. A true servant leader, Steve’s approach to safety is simple but powerful: take it “the last 18 inches”—from the head to the heart. His goal is clear: to get everyone home safe, healthy, and happy every day. 

With over 22 years of experience in the military, including as a maintenance test pilot, along with expertise in heavy equipment operation, engineering, construction, and machining, Steve brings a well-rounded and disciplined perspective to his role. He is committed to continuous improvement, striving every day to make today better than yesterday for his family, his co-workers, and his friends.

Join us as we dive into Steve’s journey, where his military experience and electrical expertise seamlessly intersect. His ability to navigate complex situations, lead teams, and ensure the safety of everyone on the job site is deeply rooted in his time in the military, where attention to detail and quick decision-making were paramount. Steve’s transition from military service to the electrical trades showcases how these two worlds complement each other, shaping his approach to leadership and safety in the workplace. 

How long have you been a member of IBEW Local 48?

I’ve been a member for about 19 years now. I’ve been an electrician for 24, but I joined the IBEW when I decided to make the switch. Before that, I was working as a machinist at Columbia Engineering Works. I remember watching the electricians on the job, thinking, ‘Those guys are making a lot more money than I am and they don’t seem to be working as hard!’ One of the machinists I worked with ended up applying to the union, and when he came back and told me about it, I thought, ‘Okay, it’s my turn!’ So, I went ahead and applied myself.

Can you tell us about your role in the military? What was your MOS?

I served for 22 years in the Oregon Army National Guard, beginning at the age of 23. My military experience shaped who I am today and played a big role in preparing me for leadership roles in the civilian workforce.

I started my career with the Corps of Engineers, where I spent the first 10 years working as an Electrician (21R). This role involved maintaining electrical systems and providing support for various construction projects. After a few years, I transitioned into a position as a Construction Supervisor (21H), overseeing construction operations and ensuring that everything ran smoothly. I gained a lot of hands-on experience during these years, learning the ins and outs of project management and the importance of teamwork and precision in everything we did.

After my time in the Corps of Engineers, I spent the last 12 years of my military career with the C 7-158th Medical Evacuation (MEDEVA) unit out of Salem, Oregon. As a MEDEVAC pilot in command and maintenance test pilot (153MG), my primary role was to support medical evacuations, ensuring that the unit’s aircraft were operational and safe for use. It was a high-pressure environment, and my job required quick thinking and precise decision-making, especially in critical situations. I loved the challenge, and the responsibility of knowing lives could depend on the work I was doing.

“General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who led the Allied Forces in Europe during World War II, famously said, “In preparing for battle I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.”

Looking back, I can see how my military experiences helped me develop the skills that would later make me a better leader in the civilian workforce. Whether managing complex projects, working with diverse teams, or making tough decisions under pressure, the leadership lessons I learned in the Oregon Army National Guard were invaluable in preparing me for the challenges I faced in the civilian world.

Could you share your deployment timeline and how it overlapped with your time as an IBEW member?

My first deployment was from 2003 to 2004, when I spent 14 months in Iraq with the engineers. At that time, I was an electrician. My second deployment was from 2013 to 2014 in Kosovo. And my third was from 2017 to 2018 in Syria.

How does IBEW accommodate members who are deployed?

When you get deployed, you go on leave, but you still accrue points for retirement. So, when you come back, you pick up right where you left off—you get all your pay, raises, and everything that happened while you were gone. It’s a great system that makes the transition back pretty seamless.

Did being an IBEW member influence your service or vice versa?

It really worked both ways. I went into the military as an electrician, which made it easier to get into the apprenticeship when I came back. I think the IBEW looks at the military and sees that we already have the discipline to show up on time and we know what hard work looks like.

In the military, I was able to do a lot of electrical work. I did electrical work in Germany for a few weeks, then in Kosovo, I handled electrical needs for our unit. Even in Iraq, I was involved with electrical projects. In my last, I even had the chance to volunteer some of my off time to help an orphanage with their electrical work. That was a pretty cool experience.

I also want to highlight how supportive IBEW was while I was deployed. They reached out and made the transition in and out super easy. They were really flexible with the demands that the military places on service members, and that made all the difference.

“I would say the biggest lesson that I learned in the military that has helped me in the IBEW is trusting other people to do what they’re supposed to do and being open to other ideas that may be very different than anything I ever thought – but often times, even better.”

What are your responsibilities as a Safety Coordinator?

As a Safety Coordinator, my job is to assess the jobs we’re doing, the locations, and the hazards associated with each task. My first goal is always to eliminate the hazard if possible. If I can’t eliminate it, then I look at ways to substitute the methods or equipment we’re using. We put policies in place to help mitigate risks, and if the policies alone aren’t enough, we implement additional safety measures, like PPE.

My focus is on taking safety the last 18 inches—because most people in the industry already know the right thing to do. That last 18 inches is the difference between knowing and doing. If safety isn’t a core value or priority, it’s easy to cut corners, and that’s when accidents happen. My role is to make sure safety isn’t just a rule but a mindset, a core value.

Another part of my role is training. I handle all of our new hire training and situational awareness training. I pull a lot from my military experience because, to me, a construction site is somewhat like a combat zone—just without the guns. There are things on the job that can kill you quickly, and being aware of your surroundings is paramount. 

“The military taught me to make that awareness second nature, and I’m here to pass that on to the crew. I want to help everyone who comes in and out of the site understand what they need to do to stay safe and be successful.”

What mindset or values from your military experience do you bring to your work in the electrical field?

One story that really stands out for me was when I was a very young soldier, only a couple of years into the service. I was heading to annual training when my platoon sergeant—an E6—called me up and said, ‘Hey, by the way, I’m not going to be there. You’re in charge.’ I was both irritated and humbled at the same time. When I arrived, I met with the commander and the first sergeant, and they just said, ‘Yep, this is all you.’

At first, I was confused because I wasn’t the highest-ranking person there, and I definitely hadn’t been in the longest. But over the course of the week, they kept adding more and more responsibility. They handed me a set of plans for a big project—a wooden bridge through the wetlands in Seaside, with an observation deck on the dunes. It was a cool project, but they also gave me a material list and said, ‘We need this, we need that.’ And I thought, ‘Okay, I’ve got this.’

I stayed up until 3 a.m. every night trying to get everything figured out, knowing first formation was at 5:30 a.m. The next day, they’d add more to my plate, and I kept pushing through, thinking I could handle it. After four days, I finally walked into the commander’s office, threw my Kevlar down on the desk, and said, ‘This is BS—there’s no way anyone can do all of this.’

The commander and the first sergeant just smiled at each other. Then the commander said, ‘Well, it took you a little longer than we expected, but we were waiting for you to figure that out.’ He went on to say, ‘You have to learn to delegate. You can’t do it all yourself. You need to trust your team to take some of the tasks off your plate.”

That moment was a turning point for me. I realized that leadership wasn’t about doing it all yourself—it was about trusting your team, understanding the bigger picture, and knowing how to communicate that vision clearly. I learned that to be an effective leader, you need to delegate, share responsibility, and help your team see how their individual contributions fit into the larger mission. A good leader encourages and empowers others and tries to leave those they interact with better equipped for life’s challenges. This was a lesson I carried with me through the rest of my military career and into my civilian life.

During his time with the Oregon Air National Guard in 2018, Steve Huson participated in a rescue operation to save Sarah Rask, who had fallen and injured herself on Broken Top Mountain in central Oregon. The Blackhawk helicopter crew lifted her to safety.

Want to share any times you had to really think outside the box on a job?

Thinking outside the box is one of my favorite things. OSHA sets minimum standards, but those are based on an ideal world—and we don’t live in an ideal world. If I can prove that what we’re doing is just as safe, or even safer, than what the regulation says, then I’m going to make it work. 

One of my favorite projects was reworking the Lewis and Clark Bridge near Longview. We had to come up with a system to keep the crew safe while working several hundred feet above the water. We made sure there was a rescue boat on standby, provided self-inflating life jackets, and implemented safety measures to protect them if they fell into the water. We also developed a way for them to safely work outside the guardrails to replace piping. It was all about creating a system that kept the team safe while getting the job done efficiently.

How do you approach safety in your work and within the industry?

At Mill Plain, safety is like a core value. We’re all working together, and the goal is always to keep each other safe. It’s not about keeping secrets or trying to outdo each other with ‘cool’ new safety tricks—safety isn’t competitive. If someone finds something that makes the job safer, we share that information with the whole team, and with the industry.

It’s the same within the NECA group I belong to as well. We meet every month to share tips and lessons learned. We talk about the struggles we’re having and find ways to improve. Safety is something we all need to be invested in because, while one person may work with us on a job, they may move on to another contractor when the job is done. If we all take the time to train everyone and make safety a top priority, it benefits everyone in the long run. We’re all connected in that way, and it’s about sharing knowledge to keep each other safe, no matter where we are or who we work for.

About Steve Huson

Beyond his impressive professional experience, Steve is also a proud father of five children, embodying the values of leadership, responsibility, and care both at work and at home. He volunteers for the NECA-IBEW ambassador outreach program and works with pre-K through 5th grade students at GSCC. His servant leadership style is about supporting others to ensure that everyone is safe and successful in their work.

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn. 

The NECA/IBEW Local 48 Partnership

The partnership between the Oregon-Columbia Chapter of NECA and IBEW Local 48 is driving the electrical industry forward with a strong commitment to integrity, quality, safety, and professional excellence. Together, we’re setting the standard for innovation and craftsmanship in every project. If you’re interested in learning more, visit our membership page.