Even experienced construction workers can need a change in their life.
Denis Lehouillier spent most of his adult life in the construction field, including owning his own flooring business.
When the Great Recession hit, Lehouillier began looking for a new career, where his services would be in demand year-round, no matter the economy.
With some guidance from a family member, he was pointed in the direction of an apprenticeship in the IBEW. In 2009 he joined IBEW Local 567 as an apprentice.
He took the opportunity seriously and decided he wanted to do more than just be a member. As a former business owner, Lehouillier realized he could make a difference, so he volunteered to represent the apprentices at the Executive Board meetings.
“I am proud to be a member of the IBEW,” he said. “Being in a Brotherhood/Sisterhood has been amazing. I have worked with and learned from so many great electricians, as well as made many friends.”
Following four years of hard work and a bad economy, Lehouillier fulfilled his goal of becoming a journeyman electrician.
Once he achieved journeyman status, he wanted to do more and became an active member of the Local.
Eventually, he became the Recording Secretary and in 2019, became a JATC instructor. By December, he was appointed to the position of Organizer.
“It’s every member’s responsibility to get the word out about the IBEW and what we offer to our members and contractors,” Lehouillier said. “I may be the Organizer, but I’m not a one-man shop. Every member of the IBEW needs to be an active organizer.
“We all have a stake in growing Local 567 and the IBEW in general. The more contractors we have, the more opportunities you and future members have. The more members we have for the contractors, will give our contractors the ability to bid on more jobs knowing we can fill the positions with the best electricians,” he added.
