To my Brothers and Sisters,
Over the past four years, I have watched Russ Shewchuk grow into the role as our International Vice President. Like any new leader stepping into a significant role, the transition came with challenges. Russ quickly discovered that some of the things he had hoped to immediately accomplish during his campaign were not as straightforward as he had anticipated.
What impressed me was not that everything came easily, but how he responded. Rather than becoming discouraged, Russ adapted. He took the time to understand the realities of the position, listened to those around him, learned from the experience, and adjusted his approach while remaining committed to his vision for the IBEW in Canada. That willingness to listen, learn, and grow has made him a stronger and more effective leader.
One area where Russ has truly distinguished himself is in the political arena. He has worked tirelessly to raise the profile of the IBEW across Canada and ensure that our union has a meaningful voice in shaping the future of our country. Today, the IBEW enjoys a level of visibility and influence that we have never had before. Under Russ’s leadership, our organization has established meaningful relationships with the Government of Canada, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, ensuring that the IBEW is not simply reacting to change but is actively helping shape the policies and direction that will impact our members for years to come.
From the perspective of Quebec, I have also seen Russ’s commitment firsthand. Anyone who has heard me speak knows that Quebec’s construction industry is unlike anywhere else in North America. While construction is fully unionized, our members operate within a highly regulated system where workers are divided among five separate unions and opportunities to change representation are limited to very specific periods established by legislation. It is a unique environment with unique challenges.
Throughout his term, Russ has consistently demonstrated a willingness to understand those challenges and to support our efforts in Quebec. He has never treated our issues as regional concerns to be overlooked. Instead, he has recognized their importance to the strength of the IBEW across Canada and has been willing to provide Local 568 the needed support.
The work that has been started over the past four years is producing results, and the team that Russ has assembled is working together with a common purpose and a clear direction. This is not the time to change course.
I believe now more than ever that the IBEW in Canada needs experienced leadership, continuity, and stability. For those reasons, I am proud to endorse Russ Shewchuk for re-election as International Vice President. I encourage you to support him so he can continue building on the progress that has been made and continue advancing the interests of IBEW members across Canada.
In Solidarity,
Guy Fournier
Business Manager / Financial Secretary
IBEW Local 568
