Exciting Progress: The IBEW Local 48 Veterans Committee Takes Shape
Veterans of IBEW Local 48 have long sought to create a platform for connecting with fellow veterans. While still in development, IBEW Local 48’s Veterans Committee is steadily taking form, with significant strides being made to bring this vision to life.
Developing IBEW Local 48’s Veterans Committee
In August 2024, Garth Bachman, Business Manager at IBEW Local 48, attended a conference where he gained valuable insights from Mike Kufchak, the Director of Veterans Affairs at IBEW Local 11 and Co-Chair/Vice Chair of the IBEW International Veterans Advisory Committee.
Upon his return, Bachman reached out to Kelly Bond, a 24-year retired Army veteran and Business Representative at IBEW Local 48, to see if she would be willing to spearhead the effort. Bond, excited and honored by the opportunity, accepted the challenge, and by November 23, 2024, the Local 48 Veterans Committee had been officially recognized by the IBEW on an international level.
Mission & Goals of the Veterans Committee
The committee’s mission is to provide educational and social activities designed to foster connections among IBEW veterans. Veterans often share unique experiences, and the committee aims to offer resources like VA benefits, mentorship, and peer support. The committee will also focus on building relationships with local union leaders and other veterans’ organizations to address economic and political issues that affect veterans both within and outside the union.
In addition, the committee will also recruit veterans into the electrical industry, particularly as the demand for clean energy increases. The skills and qualities honed in the military—dependability, responsibility, and a strong work ethic—are seen as an ideal match for the evolving needs of the industry.
Community Impact & Vision
The committee’s vision is to create a safe and supportive space for veterans to reconnect and find camaraderie. It hopes to offer a strong network where veterans can support one another through challenging times and strengthen the community by actively contributing to local projects and initiatives. By fostering leadership and encouraging positive community engagement, the committee aims to ensure that no veteran, whether currently a member of Local 48 or not, is left behind.
The Veterans Committee plans to collaborate with various community organizations, including the American Legion, Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Offices, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs, and more. Though the process will take time, the committee is committed to steadily gaining momentum and creating a robust network benefitting IBEW veterans and the broader community.
Looking Ahead: What’s Coming in 2025
Local 48’s first Veterans Committee meeting is scheduled for February 6, 2025, marking an important milestone in the group’s development. With enthusiasm and anticipation, committee members are eager to build a strong foundation and continue expanding its reach in the coming months.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Veterans Committee and its continued progress!
Have questions about the group or want to learn more? Reach out to Kelly Bond, Business Representative, IBEW Local 48 at kelly@ibew48.com or (503) 889-3269.
We invite you to watch Director Mike Kufchak’s Veterans Day tribute from IBEW Local 11.
