On June 21, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Fourth District leadership and renewables team held the DMV Solar Summit. At this event, participants discussed renewable energies, focusing on how workforce partnerships can assist with local permitting efforts.
Members of the IBEW and solar developers were in attendance, including 31 organizations, renewable energy experts, community engagement teams, and construction teams.
The IBEW always advocates for healthy job opportunities, and this strategic discussion was no different.
“When it comes to the Solar Industry, our members understand the challenges of eco-related permits,” said David Pala. “The Fourth District is there to help everyone involved navigate siting problems as efficiently as possible. It’s a win-win for all—it supports bountiful jobs which feed back into the community, all while still decreasing the project’s carbon footprint.”
After a detailed discussion on how the IBEW can increase community support through tactical stakeholder engagement, there was an immersive tour of the IBEW training facility. Participants learned about IBEW’s registered best-in-class apprenticeship training programs.
The IBEW Fourth District is comprised of Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Within this area, the IBEW represents over 55,000 workers. These workers are employed in a wide variety of industries with 91 local unions within the district.
For more information on how the IBEW’s Fourth District is leading the industry, head to ibew4renewables.com.