History of the IBEW / The Henry Miller Story

The IBEW represents approximately 887,000 active members and retirees who work in a wide variety of fields, including utilities, construction, telecommunications, broadcasting, manufacturing, railroads and government.

Since the union's founding in 1891, the IBEW members have been on the front lines powering the future of North America's electrified economy, embracing craftsmanship and enabling new technologies to reach homes, business and industries every day.

With member in both the United State and Canada, the IBEW stands out among North America's unions as one of the largest in size and because it represents members across such a broad range of skilled occupations.

IBEW members are safer and stronger at work because of the power of collectively bargained contracts, industry-leading training and a commitment to excellence on and off the job.

IBEW Leadership

 Kenneth W Cooper   International President

Cooper began his career in 1985 at Local Union 688 in Mansfield, Ohio, where he served a four-year apprenticeship to become a journeyman wireman.  He served many roles at his local union, including Steward, Vice-President, President, Chairman Trustee for the Pension Fund, Chairman Trustee for the Annuity and Chairman of Trustees for the Health & Welfare Fund.  In 1993 he was elected Business Manager.

 Paul A Noble - International Secretary - Treasurer

The son of a St. Louis Local 1 IBEW wireman, Noble got his first IBEW job in 1986 as a material handler.  After graduating from ITT Technical Institute, he joined West Frankfort, IL, Local 702 as combination person for Contel Telephone.  He then went on to serve a fire-year apprenticeship.