I’ve known Russ Shewchuk for over 15 years. During that time, I’ve seen him serve four terms as Business Manager of IBEW Local 2085, making him the longest-serving Business Manager in the Local’s history since its charter in 1960, and now as International Vice President (IVP) of IBEW Canada. For me, this election comes down to one thing: a proven track record and a demonstrated ability to deliver results for IBEW members across Canada.
When Russ became Business Manager of Local 2085, his focus was on growing the Local through organizing, increasing market share, and creating more opportunities for our members. I worked as his Organizer for seven years, and during that time we organized 28 contractors. My role was to bring contractors to the table, but Russ consistently demonstrated an ability to navigate difficult negotiations and get deals done that strengthened the Local and created more union work for our members. The result was increased market share, more jobs under IBEW agreements, and a stronger position for Local 2085.
After becoming IVP, Russ continued working with Business Managers across Canada to help locals organize new contractors, grow membership, and expand market share. Those efforts have helped position the IBEW for long-term growth while creating more opportunities for members across the country.
Now that I have had the opportunity to serve as Business Manager, I have seen firsthand the value of that work. We currently have meetings scheduled with several large electrical contractors that are interested in working with IBEW Local 2085. Those opportunities are the result of groundwork that has been laid over many years, and if they lead to agreements, they will create long-term work opportunities that benefit the members I represent.
In my 21 years as an IBEW member, I have never seen the level of access to senior elected officials that Russ has built. He has established relationships with the Prime Minister, Premiers, opposition leaders, and other key decision-makers across Canada. More importantly, he has used that access to ensure the IBEW has a voice when decisions affecting our industry, our work, and our members are being made.
This election is about choosing the leader who has demonstrated the ability to deliver results for IBEW members. Based on what I have witnessed over the past 15 years, I am confident that Russ Shewchuk has consistently done exactly that.
The Executive Board of IBEW Local 2085 is united in its endorsement of Russ Shewchuk for re election as International Vice President. We believe his leadership, experience, and proven record of delivering results have created meaningful opportunities for our members and strengthened our Local. We are confident he will continue to advance the interests of IBEW members across Canada, and we are proud to offer him our full support.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jeff Skinner
Business Manager/ Financial Secretary
IBEW Local 2085
On behalf of the Executive Board of IBEW Local 2085
Warren Herntier – President / Director of Apprenticeship and Training
Colin Reynolds – Vice President
Wayne Kumiega – Treasurer
Gerald Klassen – Executive Board
Mike Hutchinson – Executive Board
Nick Colley – Executive Board
