Brothers and Sisters,
The members of IBEW Local Union 2058 work within one of the most specialized sectors of the IBEW. The railroad industry presents unique challenges, and representing railroad workers effectively requires leadership that understands those challenges, values our experience, and ensures our sector has a meaningful voice within the broader Brotherhood.
When Russ Shewchuk first campaigned to become International Vice President four years ago, he committed to strengthening the representation and support provided to the Railroad Sector. From the perspective of Local 2058, he has followed through on that commitment.
One of the most important steps taken under Russ’ leadership was ensuring that our Railroad Sector had dedicated representation from someone with direct knowledge and experience in our industry. For Local 2058, that commitment has made a meaningful difference. Having representation that understands railroad operations, our collective agreements, our employers and the unique challenges facing railroad workers has strengthened the support available to our Local and our members.
Russ has also stood with railroad members when it mattered. During labour disputes, in discussions with government, and in efforts to advance legislation affecting workers in our industry, he has demonstrated his willingness to listen to our concerns and support the issues that matter to railroad members.
Just as importantly, Russ has remained accessible. Over the past four years, when Local 2058 has needed assistance or needed our concerns heard, Russ has been willing to answer the phone, listen and work with us toward solutions. That accessibility and willingness to engage directly with our Local has earned our respect.
Leadership is also about building a capable team and ensuring the people around you have the experience necessary to deliver results. We believe Russ has done that. From Local 2058’s perspective within the Railroad Sector, the progress made over the past four years is something we should continue building upon.
This endorsement is based on our Local’s experience with Russ and what his leadership has meant for Local 2058 and railroad members. He made commitments to strengthen railroad representation, and we believe he has delivered on those commitments.
For these reasons, IBEW Local Union 2058 is proud to endorse Russ Shewchuk for re-election as International Vice President.
Russ has earned the support of our Local through his actions, his accessibility and his commitment to ensuring railroad workers have a strong voice within the IBEW. We are confident that Russ and the experienced team he has built will continue advancing the interests of IBEW members across Canada.
On behalf of IBEW Local Union 2058, we are proud to offer Russ Shewchuk our full support for re-election as International Vice President.
In Solidarity,
Gurpal Badesha
IBEW Local Union 2058
Railroad Sector
