About Russ
Russ Shewchuk is the current International Vice President of IBEW Canada.
A second-generation IBEW inside wireman, Russ grew up with strong union values. Upon graduating high school, Russ pursued post-secondary education in Political Science at the University of Manitoba. Despite his interest in his studies, Russ decided to pursue a career in the trades, following in his father’s footsteps.
Having attended union events with his family as a child, Russ quickly became involved with his home local, IBEW Local 2085. He volunteered at union parties and became active on various committees.
His passion for the IBEW continued to grow and soon, Russ took a keen interest in organizing and sharing the benefits of the IBEW with others. In 2001, Russ stepped into a formal organizing role with IBEW Local 2085, determined to grow the local’s market share throughout the province.
Spending 10 years as an Organizer and Business Agent, Russ gained a wealth of knowledge speaking with both members and prospective members, all while beginning to learn the business side of the union.
In 2011, Russ took the next progressive leap in his career and campaigned for Business Manager. He was elected and re-elected for a record four terms with the local. During his time at Local 2085, membership grew from approximately 500 members to over 1,400.
After his third re-election as Business Manager, and despite growing membership in Manitoba, Russ became increasingly concerned about declining membership nationally. Believing strongly in the IBEW and the strong value it offers workers across the country, Russ was encouraged to campaign for the position of International Vice President at IBEW Canada. His campaign focused on the need for cohesion between locals and the IBEW First District, as well as on increased organizing efforts. No longer could the IBEW in Canada afford to be losing so many members year after year.
In May of 2022, IBEW Delegates from across Canada voted for change and elected Russ Shewchuk as the next International Vice President of IBEW Canada.
Serving as the IVP over the last four years has been the honour of Russ’s career with the IBEW. This position has increased his knowledge of the IBEW, its sectors, and the diverse membership it serves.
From increasing net membership numbers, building influence in government, and increasing investment in leadership training, education and mentorship, under Russ’s leadership, the IBEW First District has strengthened relationships and recommitted itself to supporting local unions and membership across the country.
For Russ, this is just the start. Having built a strong foundation in only four years, Russ is campaigning for a second term, where he plans to expand growth in all areas over the next five years.
Russ lives in Gimli, Manitoba, with his wife Katerina and their dog, Buster. He has two children, Brendon and Devon, and two stepchildren, Elisa and Felice. In his spare time, Russ loves to boat, fish, and snowmobile.