IBEW Local 602

First Things First — Keys to Success

Whether your committee is brand new or reigniting past activity, these steps provide a proven roadmap for building a strong, sustainable RENEW / NextGen program inside IBEW Local 602.

1. Read, believe in, and exemplify the initiative.
   Members follow leaders who demonstrate the values, not just talk about them.
2. Review and embrace the Mission Statement.
   Keep the national RENEW program at the center of your work.
3. Talk to Local leadership about starting a committee.
   Secure support from the Business Manager and Executive Board.
4. Write a clear statement of purpose.
   Define who you serve, what you aim to accomplish, and how decisions are made.
5. Schedule regular meetings.
   Monthly is ideal; quarterly planning helps long-term development.
6. Set designated roles.
   Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Communications Lead, Events Lead, Political Liaison, etc.
7. Create concise agendas and meeting notes.
   Keep meetings focused and transparent.
8. Maintain regular communication with LU leadership.
   Ask for guidance, report progress, and coordinate goals.
9. Plan training sessions.
   Include topics like leadership skills, IBEW history, apprenticeship success, organizing basics, and more.
10. Divide the workload.
    Avoid burning out strong volunteers—lift each other up.
11. Create sub-committees.
    Use focused groups like “Events,” “Education,” “Communications,” “Community Service.”
12. Reach out to other Locals.
    Share ideas, collaborate on regional events, borrow successful programs.
13. Be diverse and inclusive.
    Represent the full membership—trade, age, background, identity.
14. Request a charter.
    Once structure is consistent, formalize your committee.

Bylaws, agendas, outreach letters, and training outlines below are adapted from national recommendations and the RENEW Toolkit PDF.

Bylaws for a RENEW / NextGen Committee

Customize these to fit Local 602’s needs. Keep them simple and flexible.

Article I — Name

This committee shall be known as the IBEW Local 602 RENEW Committee, operating under the direction of the Local Union and in alignment with the national RENEW initiative.

Article II — Purpose

• Engage and educate younger members of Local 602.
• Develop future leaders through mentorship and training.
• Promote participation in Local meetings, events, and elections.
• Support community service and outreach projects.
• Foster solidarity between all members, regardless of age or trade.

Article III — Membership

• Open to all members 35 and under.
• All members of Local 602—regardless of age—may attend meetings as mentors or supporters.
• No dues or fees may be collected.

Article IV — Officers

• Chair: Coordinates meetings, represents the committee, maintains communication with LU leadership.
• Vice-Chair: Assists the Chair and assumes responsibility when the Chair is unavailable.
• Secretary: Maintains agendas, meeting notes, attendance, and communication.
• Communications Lead: Handles digital outreach, newsletters, and social presence.
• Events Lead: Organizes service projects, socials, and committee events.

Article V — Meetings

• Regular meetings shall be held monthly unless otherwise agreed.
• Agendas should be published at least 48 hours before the meeting.
• Meeting minutes must be recorded and made available to Local leadership upon request.

Article VI — Amendments

These bylaws may be amended by a simple majority of active members, with notification provided at least one meeting prior to the vote.

Sample Meeting Agendas

Standard Monthly Meeting

1. Opening / Welcome
2. Review of Last Month’s Minutes
3. Report from LU Leadership
4. Committee Reports (Events, Education, Comms, Politics)
5. Old Business
6. New Business / Open Floor
7. Training Moment (5–10 minutes)
8. Closing / Next Meeting Date

Quarterly Planning Meeting

1. Review Goals for the Year
2. Budget & Resource Needs
3. Planning the Next 3 Months of Events
4. Committee Assignments
5. Communication Strategy
6. Evaluation of Prior Projects

Sample Outreach Letters

Welcome Letter for New Members

  Brother/Sister __________________________________,

  Welcome to IBEW Local 602! As part of our commitment to supporting younger workers,
  we invite you to participate in the 602 RENEW Committee. Our mission is to build community,
  develop leadership skills, and strengthen the future of our Local Union.

  We hope to see you at our next meeting.

  In solidarity,
  602 RENEW Committee
      

Collaboration Request to Another Local

  To the RENEW Committee of Local ____,

  Local 602 RENEW is reaching out to build a connection between our committees.
  We would like to discuss shared events, training sessions, and opportunities
  to support younger workers across our region.

  We look forward to collaborating with you.

  Fraternally,
  602 RENEW Committee
      

Training Session Outlines

“Introduction to the IBEW” (30 minutes)

• History and founding of the IBEW
• Role of the Local Union
• Overview of apprenticeship and progression
• Your rights and responsibilities as a member

“How to Run a Meeting” (45 minutes)

• Basic parliamentary procedure
• Creating agendas
• Recording minutes
• How to move motions & encourage participation

“Community Service Leadership” (45 minutes)

• Planning events
• Coordinating volunteers
• Sourcing materials and partners
• Promoting participation

Things To Do with RENEW/NextGen

A curated starter list you can expand over time.

Expand this list over time — small actions become traditions.