International Brotherhood of Boilermakers - The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers, and Helpers, AFL-CIO

  • Locals award service pins
    The following pins have been presented in recognition of continuous years of service in the Boilermakers union as reported by local lodge leadership. Note: Local lodge leaders can now submit service pins for fulfillment and inclusion in The Reporter here. LOCAL 1 • CHICAGO 50 YEARS — Edward Downs 45 YEARS — Kevin Brogan, John Burns, Michael Christy, Michael Cooley, James Gismondi, Patty Hess, Charles Miggins 35 YEARS — Richard Talty 30 YEARS — James Schremp 25 YEARS — Joseph Bogusz, Erik Grobe, Anthony Jeleniewski, Kris Lundquist, David Papineau 20 YEARS — Nicholas Lowman LOCAL 5 • NEW YORK 30 YEARS — William M. Cole, Bert McCormick 25 YEARS — David M. Spencer 20 YEARS — Joseph Ramundo LOCAL 40 • ELIZABETHTOWN KY 75 YEARS — Lloyd A. Remington 65 YEARS — Eugene Arnold, Lester W. Adkins, Howard Hardeman 60 YEARS — Denzil D. Barker, Raymond Caudill, William L. Hite, William Quertermous 55 YEARS — John R. Bayes, Carl R. Bentley, James D. Blanford, Robert E. Gregory, Darrell Reed, Randy O. Street, Richard W. Thompson, Donald P. Whitaker 50 YEARS — Luther C. Chaney, Gary M. Frank, Larry G. Guynes, John D. Lambert, Jeffrey V. Latham, Wilford E. Lee, Charles D. Moneymaker, Hovey A. Tankersley, James C. Thomas, Ronald C. Webster, Leo S. Williams 45 YEARS — Michael Adkins, William R. Anderson, Thomas K. Armstrong, Steven E. Arnett, Albert R. Brown, Ricky L. Cobb, Ronald D. Faith, Ronnie D. Givens, Jimmy M. Gower, Paul S. Hall, Scotty L. Hanberry, Anthony D. Harper, Gary L. Harper, Joe E. Hudson, Odie W. Hutchison, Craig A. Jenkins, Nickey J. Johnston, Ricky L. Kaufman, Randall K. Kiser, Byron R. Maddox, Anthony Mangina, Danny McCay, John A. Mohr, Jeffery D. Morgan, Ray A. Parrott, Paul E. Puckett, Michael R. Ritchie, Randy A. Roberts, Darrell C. Snell, Harrell R. Snell, Michael S. Sowash, Lawrence G. Thompson, Jimmy L. Vincent, Donnie R. Webster, Alvin L. Wilcox, Robert D. Wilkins, Roger G. Wood, Sherrill G. Woosley 40 YEARS — Stephen C. Blissit, Michael C. Dukes, Jerald Morris, Phillip D. Philips, Garland L. Pryor 35 YEARS — Kevin D. Boggs, Elmer R. Burchett, Michael E. Bush, Jeffrey L. Dowell, Franklin Jackson, Christopher Johnson, Donald W. Johnson, Raymond Justice, Johnnie Kitchen, Johnny L. Pennington, Michael E. Richmond, Clarence Jeffery Smith, Wylie W. Whitenack 30 YEARS — Kendall L. Adkins, Robert D. Roberts, Donald E. Sammons, Daniel S. Stanfill, David P. Tackett, Steven W. Vincent 25 YEARS — Cameron N. Bratcher, William K. Bundy, Johnny Chambers, David A. Clevenger, Rebecca Cochran, Larry Curnel, Billy W. Day, Raymond Desrochers, Michael A. Dietrich Ronald K. Douglas, William M. Evans, Marcus L. Garrett, William E. Givens, Bill Ronnie Hall, Thomas R. Hall, James Dale Harris, Jody L. Henderson, Matthew J. Hudson, Robert C. Kirk, Randal D. Lawson, David Marshall, Robert Minton, Michael Tracy Peveler, Steven T. Reeves, Kenneth B. Ritchie, Troy L. Ritchie, James R. Stewart, Jerrod R. Story, Karen L. Truett, Bridgette Via, Thomas W. Waugh, Lawrence Wethington, John D. Whitley, Michael L. Wilcox 20 YEARS — Nathan C. Curnel, Christopher Ratcliff, Jason D. Stephens 15 YEARS — William Campbell, Denny Wade Howard, Joshua L. Kiser LOCAL 60 • PEORIA IL 60 YEARS — James Miskell 55 YEARS — Jack Cooper 50 YEARS — Steve Bradley, William Holford, Darryl Koehn, Charles Witzman 35 YEARS — Jerry Goodwin 30 YEARS — James Baker, Gerald Johnson, Joseph Rayborn, Kenny Rogers, Joseph Wood, Roger Wood, Jeremy Wood 25 YEARS — Aron Knight, Rick Prince, Richard Rentsch LOCAL 83 • KANSAS CITY MO 50 YEARS — Ralph B. Hoffman, Richard F. Spiek, Jack M. Stoddard, Warren Wheeldon 45 YEARS — Robert Holly, Timothy Sheil 40 YEARS — John R. Blunk, Laverne Holmberg 35 YEARS — Lester W. Frederking, Tracy M. Huff, Harry R. Lowry, John McGinnis 30 YEARS  — Linda Burnett, Dennis L. Creed, Daniel Harrington, Jeffrey A. Kuzelka, Theodore J. Wenke 25 YEARS — Chris Burks, James Dunagan, Corey Frederick, David A. Givens, Thaddeus Hassebroek, Kraig Morgan, Joshua A. Myers, Mark Shoemaker 20 YEARS — Jerry L. Bethel, Joshua Black, Adam Dale, Woody English, Adam Ewigman, Roberto R. Gonzales, Gregory A. Henry, Tatum Keister, Randy L. Knudson, Ryan R. Miller, Hoang Van Nguyen, Johnny Nguyen, Tai T. Nguyen, Duc Huu Pham 15 YEARS — Jack N. Cox, Jimmy Day, Luke Fitzmaurice, Russell Hinkle, Denver Jochem, Cuong Van Nguyen, Lawrence M. Prohaska, Darrin Ryder, Larry B. Sartin, Randy D. Stout, Aric Williamson LOCAL 108 • BIRMINGHAM AL 25 YEARS — John W. Keith, Dennis W. Pierce, Stanley L. White LOCAL 363 • BELLEVILLE IL 60 YEARS — Thomas E. Brown, Francis W. Davis, William F. Mulconnery, Roger Nichols 55 YEARS — Arthur Austin, Bennie Bailey, Terry K. Driver, Thomas G. Emmerich, Kenneth J. Emmons, Chuck R. Quiller, Gerald F. Veach 50 YEARS — Phillip W. DeShazo 45 YEARS — Reginald L. Conlee, Tyrus L. Longstreet, Peter Passiglia 40 YEARS — Ronald T. McNeely 35 YEARS — Eric B. Haas 30 YEARS — Floyd R. Beckham, Mark B. Carroll, Michael C. Cox, Anthony Palmisano, Michael P. Stechmesser, David A. Toring, Timothy P. Volluz 25 YEARS — Robert C. Black, Sharon K. Dobbs, Todd E. May, David Williams 20 YEARS — Ronald S. Boucher, Zachary Sisk 15 YEARS — Dennis J. Reed LOCAL 647 • MINNEAPOLIS 60 YEARS — George W. Shilts 55 YEARS — Richard L. Allord, Jerry W. Duden, Roger H. Kolbrek, Robert M. Staskivige 50 YEARS — Don D. Adkins, Brian J. Backer, Douglas N. Cummins, Michael T. Erickson, Wayne M. Everett, Melbourne W. Hertel, Mark K. Hickman, Robert M. Larson, John A. Legore, Willaim P. Leingang, Rudolph J. Morgando, Maynard J. Rathjen, Melvin K. Wappula, Glenn D. Wood 45 YEARS — Michael C. Bailey, Jerry L. Bistodeau, Kenneth M. Bunnell, Michael J. Horsch, Jeffrey Jarnot, Michaek A. Kiley, John C. Ladoucer, Thomas R. Luke 40 YEARS — Todd J. Shape, Michael B. Strand 35 YEARS — Merlin R. Gerdes, Mark A. Kieffer, Steven J. Loso 30 YEARS — Randy D. Bartell, Randy P. Hatzenbihler 25 YEARS — Randall K. Fincher, Joseph A. Newcomb 20 YEARS — Brandon D. Reichel, Ebrima Sanneh 15 YEARS — Caleb D. Harstad LOCAL D480 • CHARLEVOIX MI 25 YEARS — Thomas Zipp, Chad Diss 20 YEARS — Thomas Berry, John Fehrlen, Brandon Looze, Corey Purvis 10 YEARS — Joshua Crow , Brandon Johnstone — May 22
  • Organizing for our future
    Unions exist to organize. Unions work because we organize. And unions organize, because it’s the only way for workers to hold companies’ feet to the fire and ensure safety, fair treatment, living wages and decent working conditions.  We organize so that individual workers, through union representation, can bring their voices together and be heard—so that through a collectively bargained, negotiated contract, management cannot ignore our voices.  Organizing is why workers at Doppelmayr OAC, who are now Local 549 Boilermakers, have a contract that includes yearly pay increases, medical premium payments and specifications on how reprimands are handled. Workers didn’t have those guarantees before. Organizing is why union Boilermakers at any industrial facility in the United States and Canada get a fair shake through defined and regimented grievance processes.  Organizing is why, in our Construction Sector Operations, all Boilermakers, no matter if they’re a man, woman or the best friend of a supervisor, go to work knowing their wages are fair and equal and knowing exactly what to expect on the job from the legally-binding contract that was agreed upon by our union and the contractors who employ them. We like to think we’re a long way from the grim days before unions existed; when children as young as 10 years old labored in textile mills; when worn-to-the-bones men and women worked grueling hours in sweatshops for mere pennies. We like to think horrors like the disgusting working conditions in the 1900’s Chicago stockyards or New York City’s tragic Triangle Shirtwaist fire are a faraway past. But even today, left to their own moral standards, companies unfortunately continue to prove they’ll put greed and profit above human decency, let alone simply doing the right thing.  Just a year ago at Siemens Mobility in Sacramento, California, workers endured high temperatures and poor ventilation that was so extreme, some became ill. Siemens’ welders were paid less than the hourly wage of California McDonald’s workers. The California Labor Federation reported revenue of $3 billion for Siemens Mobility.Yet, the company didn’t care about the inhumane working conditions, and they didn’t care that their workers—the very people they depend upon for the profits they enjoy—cannot afford the company-provided health insurance and sometimes work multiple jobs just to pay rent. How does this happen in 2025 in the United States of America? Because the workers aren’t unionized. They don’t have a voice. You can read on page 12 about our efforts to organize Siemens workers. We didn’t win the votes this time—this time—but we’ve set a solid path for success, and we will not give up on the future these hard-working men and women deserve.  Organizing is a top priority in the work we do as a union. We know there are workers, like those at Siemens, who desperately need a union. It’s our duty as part of the labor movement and as Boilermakers to help them organize.  Even as we build power for the workers we represent, we also build our union’s power by joining more and more workers to amplify our unified Boilermaker voice. And as we make our Boilermaker voice louder, we make our Boilermaker future brighter. — May 13
  • It’s up to us to harness our union’s power
    Working in the field, I watched craftsmen pour their hearts and souls into their work as Boilermakers. Their dedication and pride in their craft left a lasting impression on me. I remember the first time I walked into a job site as an apprentice: the smell of grinding, the sound of welding. And from my early days working on the tools at Local 11 to serving as the President of the Montana State Building Trades Council to today, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of unity and dedication. International President Simmons and the entire International Executive Council share this commitment. Having served in various crucial roles, from working on the tools to leading recruitment and organizing for our union to serving as International leaders, this is a team with a wealth of experience. We see a clear vision in harnessing the power of our union—the power of our unity. To strengthen our organization; to increase member engagement by encouraging active participation in political campaigns, building relationships and alliances with other unions and organizations, encouraging community involvement, growing our digital communications and public and media relations. For too long, our union has shied away from these important elements of unionism. Providing resources and training on political activism, for example, will empower members to be vocal advocates for their rights. Too many Boilermakers have shrunk away from our union’s duty to political involvement—adding our labor voices to impact our work and our union rights. Building stronger alliances with other labor unions, advocacy groups and community organizations will also help us by forming a united front on labor issues. Collaborating on joint initiatives will amplify our collective impact. Enhancing our digital presence through social media and online campaigns will allow us to engage with a broader audience and raise awareness about our union’s activities and achievements. Building relationships through social media outlets and launching public awareness campaigns will educate the public about our union’s efforts, fostering a positive image and garnering support for our causes. Our vision is to focus on these key areas: Member Engagement: We will increase member engagement by encouraging active participation in political campaigns, town hall meetings and community events. We will provide resources and training on political activism to empower members to be vocal advocates for their rights. Alliances and Coalitions: Building stronger alliances with other labor unions, advocacy groups and community organizations will help us form a united front on labor issues. Collaborating on joint initiatives will amplify our collective impact. Digital Platforms: Enhancing our digital presence through more social media and online campaigns will allow us to engage with a broader audience and raise awareness about our union’s activities and achievements. Public Relations: Building relationships with media outlets and launching public awareness campaigns will educate the public about our union’s efforts, fostering a positive image and garnering support for our cause. The M.O.R.E. Work Investment Fund: To maximize the impact of the M.O.R.E. Work Investment Fund, we will strategically allocate resources to key areas. In marketing, we will use advertising campaigns, public relations and outreach to industries to enhance our efforts to showcase the benefits of joining the Boilermakers union. For organizing, we will identify potential workplaces for unionization, build relationships with workers and provide support throughout the organizing process to bring more workers into the union. In recruitment, we will highlight the advantages of union membership, including our exceptional training programs and opportunities for career advancement, attracting new members to our ranks. For employment, we will create job opportunities by partnering with employers, advocating for labor-friendly policies and promoting our skilled workforce to potential employers. Our M.O.R.E. Work Investment Fund is a strategic initiative that embodies our commitment to growth and sustainability. By focusing on Marketing, Organizing, Recruitment and Employment, we aim to increase membership and man-hours. Through targeted efforts in these areas, we will promote the Boilermakers union, attract new members and create job opportunities for our skilled workforce. The M.O.R.E. Work program has already seen success, and we are committed to expanding and innovating to ensure its continued impact. Together, under the leadership of Tim Simmons, the full International Executive Council and myself, we are committed to shaping a resilient and forward-thinking future for the Boilermakers union. Being from the field we know the challenges that Boilermakers face; and by focusing on strengthening our union and leveraging the M.O.R.E. Work Investment Fund, we will remain strong advocates for workers’ rights, industry advancements and the well-being of Boilermaker members. Let us move forward with determination, unity and a shared vision of a brighter tomorrow. — May 13
  • Announcement: Death of L-667 Brother Steve Chambers
    It is with deep sorrow that the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers must inform members of the death of Brother Steve E. Chambers, Local 667, of Cameron, West Virginia. Brother Chambers was working on a Simakas project at Westlake Chemical Plant in Proctor, West Virginia, when he was tragically killed on the jobsite Sunday, May 11. Due to an ongoing investigation, no further details on the incident can be shared at this time. “We offer our deepest sympathy and support to Brother Chambers’ family and our Local 667 brothers and sisters. We are thinking especially of his father, who is also a L-667 Boilermaker,” said International President Timothy Simmons. “And as we share this profound grief in the loss of our Boilermaker brother, we also come together to raise the critical importance of safety on jobsites. “Every single person deserves to work in a safe environment where they know they can go home at the end of the day to their loved ones. Every single person deserves for their father, mother, son, daughter, husband, wife, friends, brothers and sisters to come home to them at the end of their shift. “Each and every safety protocol matters. We know all too well that the smallest details that might seem insignificant or trivial can mean the difference between life and death. Protocols simply cannot be ignored. Ever.” L-667 Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Bruce Forshee said memorial arrangements have not yet been made by Brother Chambers’ family. The local has collected funds to pay tribute and will present a customized Boilermaker Bible to his family. “Brother Chambers’ death is such a tragic, senseless and tremendous loss,” Forshee said. “Tomorrow is never guaranteed, and we are reminded: Safety must always be top priority on every jobsite. Lockout/tagout is not an option. It is necessary every time. “Our hearts are especially with our brother’s father, son and girlfriend.” — May 13
  • May Day commemorates the sacrifice of union workers in the 1880s
    In the 1880s, Chicago workers had had enough because of long hours and harsh conditions that pushed them to demand change. The International Working People’s Association, formed in 1883, championed the eight-hour workday. The movement gained national momentum. At its 1884 convention, the American Federation of Labor called for a nationwide strike on May 1, 1886. On that day, over 340,000 workers took to the streets in support of an eight-hour workday. Tensions rose two days later during a strike at the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company. Police attacked protesters, killing at least six. The violence led to a rally in Haymarket Square on May 4. Though peaceful at first, the protest turned deadly when a bomb was thrown and police opened fire, killing several and injuring dozens. The Haymarket Affair spurred the global labor movement. In 1889, labor leaders declared May 1 as International Workers Day—now known as May Day—to honor the fight for workers’ rights and the lives lost in the struggle. Once again, workers’ rights are under attack. The current administration has targeted federal workers’ bargaining rights, immigrant workers and freedom of speech. We honor the memory of our labor movement brothers and sisters, who for over a century have championed workers’ rights. — May 1