Powering Northern Nevada’s Growth: How IBEW Local 401 & NECA Are Expanding the Electrical Workforce

Northern Nevada is growing fast, and skilled electrical workers are leading the way. IBEW Local 401 is helping shape the future of electrical work in Northern Nevada through a focused organizing effort supported by strong partnerships with the Greater Sacramento Chapter of NECA. As the region continues to grow with new data centers, manufacturing facilities, and infrastructure projects, this collaboration ensures skilled electrical workers are ready to meet demand. Since January 2025, IBEW Local 401 has more than doubled its field workforce through strategic organizing and open-door outreach. This growth allows contractors and labor leaders to plan ahead instead of reacting to workforce shortages. The Greater Sacramento Chapter of NECA brings project planning and technical leadership, while IBEW electricians deliver the training, safety culture, and craftsmanship required on complex jobs. Strong coordination between labor and management is essential to this success. When union leadership and NECA contractors work together early, they can secure skilled workers, maintain high safety standards, and support long-term contractor growth. This approach has led to increased manhours, stronger labor standards, and steady expansion across the region. The heart of this story is ultimately about people. Newly organized electricians share how joining IBEW Local 401 provided stability, benefits, and a sense of belonging. Briggs Electric explains how working with the union has helped them grow responsibly and take on larger projects. Union leadership points to a long-term vision focused on continued organizing and protecting the trade. The impact reaches beyond individual jobsites. By strengthening the local electrical workforce, IBEW Local 401 and its NECA partners are supporting economic growth, community development, and long-term careers. This effort shows what’s possible when electricians, contractors, and union leadership work toward a shared goal. Interested in building a career in the electrical trade? Learn more about joining the IBEW at IBEWyes.org.