Getting Connected

Technology stocks may not be the sure thing they once were on the market. But technology itself is here to stay as a force in our daily lives.

It has become a clich to talk about the rapid pace of technological change. Just think about the computers we used ten years ago, and compare them with todays faster, more powerful models. Who knows what we will be using ten years from today? Already, experts are talking about a new, faster version of the Internet, and the machines that connect us all are becoming smaller and easier to use. Whennot ifengineers can integrate the functions of computers with televisions and other common devices in a simple manner, then the information revolution will be complete.

Technological change has an obvious impact on the working lives of IBEW members. We are working hard to win our share of the exploding market in voice/data/video installation and maintenance. Computers have already had and will continue to have a major impact on the operations of utility and manufacturing facilities, railroads and government at all levels. Telecommunications and broadcasting are the very essence of high technology use.

Our cover story in this issue focuses on another use of technologyour ability as trade union members to communicate better and to use shared information to act more effectively. The IBEW was one of the first unions to sign onto the AFL-CIOs LaborNET in 1995, starting our own private community, IBEWnet, within that system. How long ago that seems. Since then, in every survey conducted by the AFL-CIO, IBEW members use the web in numbers higher than those of most, if not all, other unions. Our percentage of members on the web will only grow.

We have only begun to scratch the surface of what electronic communication has to offer. In the April issue of the Journal, we discuss some of the latest steps we have taken to enhance the IBEWs web-based communications program. Our web site sports a new look, one that will be constantly re-evaluated to keep it fresh and easy to navigate. Our members online private community, after several fits and starts, is open for business and ready for broader participation.

We have high hopes for the IBEW job board. As explained in April issue cover story, the board will be a central clearinghouse where members can find out which locals need workers on construction projects. The information will be posted directly by local union leaders and they and only they will be responsible for its content and timeliness. Members can see what work is available straight from the horses mouth with no filters or barriers.

We started with construction because of the nature of the industry and the long tradition of members traveling to work on projects in other jurisdictions. We hope to be able to include job listings in other industries at some point in the future. The possibilities are unlimited.

And that is the bigger point. Modern communications technology is one of the most powerful tools ever devised, capable of smashing existing limitations. Think of how effective an organization of our size, strength and human resources could be if we were linked together more closely. Think of what an organizing tool the web can be. Think of how we could increase our political and legislative effectiveness. Think for yourself what could be done, because that is yet another advantage of the webit empowers individuals in ways not before possible.

I am committed to making the IBEW the most technologically advanced union, not only in the jobs we do, but in how we conduct our own business. The initial steps we have taken are only the beginning. There is more to come.

Ed Hill,
International President