The IBEW 6th District held its Progress Meeting and Women’s Conference on October 4th through October 6th in Fontana, Wisconsin. Local 15 Clerical Business Representatives, Fabian Vela and Lisa Sims attended the conference along with members, Gladys Negron, Melissa Bacon, Emily Bridgewater and Maria Patino.
Delegates were welcomed by IBEW 6th District VP, Paul Noble and IBEW International President Lonnie Stephenson. The conference gave a progress update and had speakers discussing various subjects. The event included speakers; Wisconsin Governor, Tony Evers, as well as Wisconsin’s 1st Congressional District Candidate Ann Roe. Both spoke of their continued support for the IBEW and the need to continue the growth of good paying union jobs. They stated they have and will continue to support legislation that advances that mission.
Additionally, conference attendees heard from the following guest speakers: John Nichols, National Affairs Correspondent from “The Nation” magazine spoke on the current political climate and Mark McDermott presented and moderated breakout sessions for Economic Justice and Labor Education. Bill Heffernan a clinical counselor and certified employee assistance professional, spoke on mental health during the Women’s Conference portion.
During the conference several women gave their personal “herstories” of their experiences as sisters in the IBEW. The delegates were presented with an EWMC update and Gail Perry-Mason, Senior Director of Investments at Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. & Financial Planner, gave a dynamic address to the delegates on Financial Planning and the need for women to obtain knowledge for their financial well-being. The conference was very informative and educational for all in attendance.