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March 2005 IBEW Journal

Jeremiah J. OConnor, International Secretary-Treasurer of the IBEW since 2001, retired from the Brotherhoods second highest elected office effective March 1, 2005. Jon F. Walters, International Vice President of the Eighth District, was appointed by International President Edwin D. Hill to complete the remainder of OConnors term, and the appointment was ratified by the International Executive Council on February 2, 2005.

Jerry OConnor consistently has championed the union cause of justice for working people throughout a distinguished IBEW career. Highly regarded throughout the union, Secretary-Treasurer OConnors record is one of dynamic advocacy on behalf of all workers. His tenure reflects a legacy of singular achievement and unswerving dedication to the IBEW and its members. Most notably, OConnor is recognized for his diligent work, in close partnership with International President Edwin D. Hill, to build the strength of IBEW pension funds, advance the IBEWs political programs and expand training and organizing success.

OConnor was sworn in as International Secretary-Treasurer on January 29, 2001, following his appointment by International President Hill and confirmation by the IEC.

OConnor at a gathering with members of the Sixth District staff.

On September 10, 2001, OConnor was elected Secretary-Treasurer at the IBEWs 36^th International Convention, held in San Francisco, California. At that San Francisco convention, Brother OConnors admirable leadership qualities were on display as he, President Hill and fellow International Officers guided convention proceedings forward in the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Notably, the 36^th Convention was the first in the history of the IBEW to elect an International Secretary-Treasurer. The offices of International Secretary and International Treasurer were combined in 1998 following a membership referendum to alter the IBEW Constitution to create the combined position.

OConnor enjoys time on the slopes.

OConnor served with distinction for five years as International Vice President of the Sixth District covering the states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Appointed to that post on November 1, 1995, by then-IBEW International President John J. Barry, OConnor was unanimously elected IVP at the 35^th International Convention in 1996. Under OConnors leadership, the Sixth District consisted of 146,000 members, 142 local unions and 17 International Representatives. Under his leadership, the district made major advances in education, training and organizing, targeting all branches.

OConnor was appointed IBEW International Representative assigned to the Sixth District staff in January 1987. He served construction, utility, manufacturing and broadcasting local unions. With an ongoing dedication to education, he also taught courses in construction organizing and leadership training. He also served for a brief period in the Construction Department at the International Office.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 5, 1934, OConnor is often described as a true son of Americas Midwest heartland. He is admired for his steady, down-to-earth leadership style. Consistent in his strong and impassioned defense of working people, OConnor is recognized as an excellent public speaker. Over the years he has inspired countless IBEW members to carry forward the proud IBEW tradition in the fight for justice. Known for his bright sense of humor and ready smile, theres nothing OConnor wouldnt do to help out a union brother or sister.

Instructor Jerry J. OConnor (back row, center) with
Apprentice Graduating Class of 1967.

OConnor began his IBEW career as an apprentice with Local 701, Lisle, Illinois, in the western part of the Chicago area, on March 15, 1959. He went on to serve Local 701 as business manager/financial secretary from 1978-87. Early in his IBEW career, OConnor was a journeyman inside wireman, foreman and general foreman. He was the locals assistant business manager from 1965-1978 and served on major local union committees. He was an apprentice instructor for the DuPage County IBEW/NECA Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for 10 years.

While at the local, OConnor also held numerous labor-wide posts. He served as president of the DuPage County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO. He was president of the DuPage County Building Trades Council, AFL-CIO, and served on Prevailing Wage and Code Enforcement committees. OConnor consistently has promoted training and education.

Devoted to community service, OConnors activities included work with the Red Cross and the United Way. Prior to beginning his IBEW career, OConnor served a two-year stint in the U.S. Army, from 1953-1955. He is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He also rode in the rodeo circuit for four years, riding broncos (bareback and saddle) and bulls.

Brother OConnor resides in Arlington, Virginia. He has two daughters, Deborah Shultz and Dianne LeBreux, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Announcing OConnors retirement to the I.O. staff, President Hill stated: "Jerry and I have been working partners for over four years, and my sadness is that I will miss him and my happiness is knowing that he will now be able to kick back and enjoy life."
                                "See you, partner."

As Jerry OConnor concludes an honorable IBEW career of distinguished, dedicated service, the entire Brotherhood owes him a debt of gratitude and extends every good wish for a happy and healthy retirement.