In 2019, Portland International Airport embarked on an ambitious transformation, kicking off the PDX Next project with the demolition of the outdated Concourse A. This $2 billion initiative aims to revolutionize the travel experience by introducing bright, airy spaces, expanding the number of gates and flights, and bolstering earthquake resilience. 

While construction has been a constant companion for travelers in the main terminal since the project’s inception, the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders have yielded significant milestones ahead of its scheduled completion in Winter 2025/2026.

The NECA/IBEW Local 48 partnership is playing a significant role in the development of the new Portland International Airport (PDX). Members of NECA’s Oregon Columbia Chapter and IBEW Local 48 are building the next generation of airport infrastructure.

Members are providing the electrical installation and maintenance services for the new airport. Their expertise ensures that the airport’s electrical systems are safe, reliable, and up-to-date with the latest technologies. This includes work on complex electrical infrastructures necessary for modern airport operations​. Through these efforts, NECA-IBEW Local 48 is helping to ensure that the airport is equipped with state-of-the-art electrical systems while also investing in the community and workforce development. Their contributions highlight the importance of skilled labor in major infrastructure projects and the positive impact such organizations can have on their local communities.

We spoke with OEG employee Sara Campbell, Journey-Level Electrician and IBEW Local 48 member, to get the inside scoop on this exciting project as well as her contributions to its success.

What’s your current role in the renovation?

I’m currently part of the Baggage Handling Systems crew and have been working on the project for over nine months. The B.H.S. crew installs and maintains baggage conveyor systems. We also install conduit and cable trays, which then deliver power and controls to the new conveyor systems. I find it very interesting to learn about the ins and outs of conveyor systems. It’s different from your typical power or lighting system jobs. 

I thoroughly enjoy working at this site. It’s the second time I’ve worked on the airport renovation and this time around is completely different from the last time which makes it very interesting. In my previous job at the airport I worked mostly demolition.

Is there a lot of collaboration between teams and contractors?

There are so many trades working in each area. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. Working on and around conveyor systems every day, we coordinate with Millwrights and Ironworkers for each part of the project. Communication and coordination are key elements that contribute to our continued success.

Are you implementing any new technologies or innovative electrical solutions in this project? 

Yes, the Port of Portland has decided to update their communications technology within the last couple years. So instead of a coaxial style of cable, now they use high-speed Ethernet.  Also, we’re implementing the use of new MSPs instead of the older style ArmorStarts, as far as controlling the motors on the conveyors.

Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable solutions you’re seeing during the renovation?

Most airports build outwards instead of renovating and rerouting existing infrastructure. PDX is unique in that they don’t want to have passengers take transportation to and from faraway terminals. So they continue to build within existing space.

Collaboration & Innovation Are Key to PDX Renovation

We invite you to learn more about other companies and vendors that are contributing to this amazing accomplishment.

Leading the charge on the airport’s expansion is Skanska, a renowned Swedish construction and development firm, in tandem with its trusted joint venture partner, Hoffman Construction Company. Together, these industry powerhouses are driving the project forward, bringing their combined expertise and innovative approach to deliver a world-class facility that meets the evolving needs of travelers.

Timberlab in a design-assist role with ZGF Architects on the PDX Terminal Core Redevelopment, which features a striking 400,000 square foot timber roof, paying homage to Oregon’s natural heritage and innovative wood industry. PDX, one of the country’s best airports, is elevating its reputation with a LEED® Gold-targeted project that expands its showcase of the Northwest’s beauty through cutting-edge sustainable features.

The NECA/IBEW Local 48 Partnership: Leading the Northwest Electrical Industry

Beyond their technical contributions, NECA-IBEW Local 48 is deeply involved in community initiatives. They sponsor and participate in various local events and programs, which foster community engagement and support local development. Their involvement in community activities demonstrates a commitment to not just building infrastructure but also enhancing the well-being of the local population​.

Learn more about membership and keep up-to-date on the latest industry news by visiting our blog.

Construction is the third fastest growing industry in Oregon, and union-led apprenticeship programs are empowering women and people of color to build skillsets to join the industry.

More opportunities for construction workers are on the horizon, with a continuous rise in labor demand as 17% of the workforce nears retirement. The Oregon Employment Department predicts 11,900 new construction jobs over the next decade.

According to a 2021 research study conducted by Larissa Petrucci, Ph.D., through the University of Oregon’s Labor Education & Research Center, union apprenticeship programs are leading in diversity and showing higher success rates all around compared to nonunion programs, especially for women and people of color.

Read the full article at Portland Business Journal.

In the electrical industry, which still has a predominantly male workforce, two local women have carved their own paths.

President and co-owner of Christenson Electric, Sonja Rheaume has been with the company for 14 years. Founded in 1945 as a family business, Christenson Electric has changed hands a few times. In 2008, only one year after joining, Rheaume bought the company with CEO Mark Walter. The pair now co-own it along with Walter’s daughter Tristin Boell.

Read the full article in the Portland Business Journal.

In January 2020, a new Maternity Benefit Plan went into effect that was made available by IBEW Local 48 in partnership with the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the Harrison Electrical Workers Trust Fund. To our knowledge, this is the first of its kind in the nation. Since the plan went into effect at the beginning of 2020, 25 individuals have utilized this benefit.

Designed with a goal to retain women in the workforce, the plan offers 13 weeks of paid leave before a doctor-certified due date and 13 weeks after, doubling the previous maternity leave offering. Members receive $800 a week in time loss benefits in addition to Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) benefits. The trust also pays health insurance premiums, which means recipients get free health coverage for their entire family.

Read more at the Portland Business Journal.

Safety has always been a priority in Portland’s construction industry but Covid-19 caught the industry, and the world, by surprise. It was only one year ago our training center had to close and the 2020 spring quarter canceled to comply with executive orders. Despite the ongoing safety and health challenges, the NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center completed a successful training year for over 1,000 apprentices.

As safety director at the training center, I attend the monthly Construction Safety Summit meetings where contractors across building trades meet to discuss safety issues. The monthly meetings started long before the pandemic, and thank goodness they did. The collaboration within the industry has been vital during this uncertain time.

Read more at the Portland Business Journal.