Labored Thoughts

NECA Podcast Network
  • 5.0 (5)
  • EDUCATION

Labor Relations is crucial to the success of NECA and its member companies. Join NECA’s labor relations experts for a bi-weekly discussion of all this complicated topic entails.

  1. 08/01/2025

    20: The Bayou Blueprint and NECA Board of Governors Explained

    In this episode, we sit down with Steve Martin from the North Louisiana Chapter and Martin West from Twin City Electric and deep dive into the collaborative Louisiana "Apprentice of the Year" annual Competition. We also have a special interview with NECA CFO Traci Walker as she walks us through the NECA Board of Governors voting process.

    35 min

  2. 06/30/2025

    #19: Meet the New Executive Director for District 10

    In this episode, the Labor Relations team welcomes NECA's first ever Executive Director for District 10, Robbie Foxen. Listen in and get to know more about his extensive career history in the Outside Line world as well as initiatives and goals to advance the industry.

    13 min

  3. 04/01/2025

    #18: Don't Get Punitive: Navigating the Boundaries of the Labor Management Committee

    In this episode of the Labored Thoughts Podcast, Ryan Courtney welcomes back Jef Fagan, NECA's Senior Vice President of Labor Relations and Risk Management, for an in-depth discussion on the risks of punitive damages within labor management process. They explore the limits of collective bargaining agreements, emphasizing the importance of sticking to make-whole remedies and avoiding punitive actions that could undermine the integrity of the labor management process. Jef shares his legal expertise, providing valuable insights for contractors and labor representatives alike. Tune in to learn why enforcing only what's in the contract matters, and how going beyond can open doors to unwanted legal challenges.

    28 min

  4. 03/13/2025

    #17: Behind the Acronyms: NEBF, NEAP, and NEIB

    In this episode of the Labored Thoughts Podcast, Ryan Courtney sits down with Darrin Golden and Lauren Loughran, key leaders from the National Electrical Benefit Fund (NEBF), to discuss the inner workings of one of the electrical industry's most important resources. They explore the NEBF's journey toward modernization, including its paperless initiatives, cutting-edge cybersecurity measures, and the rollout of the transformative National Electrical Individual Benefit (NEIB). Listeners will also gain insights into the fund's approach to delivering top-notch customer service, the critical role of payroll audits, and the importance of participation agreements. Whether you're a contractor, participant, or industry enthusiast, this episode provides a deep dive into how NEBF serves its members with integrity and innovation.

    1h 32m

  5. 02/17/2025

    #16: Labor, Policy, and Politics: What You Need to Know Right Now

    In this special episode of Labored Thoughts, host Ryan Courtney is joined by NECA’s top policy and labor experts—Marco Giamberardino, Senior Vice-President of Government and Public Affairs, James Payne, Director of Government Affairs, and Jef Fagan, Senior Vice-President of Labor Relations and Risk Management—to dissect the whirlwind of executive actions, policy shifts, and economic implications of President Trump’s return to office. From sweeping tariffs on steel and aluminum to federal hiring freezes, NLRB shake-ups, and controversial funding pauses, this discussion unpacks how these rapid changes impact electrical contractors and the labor landscape at large. With real-time updates and expert insights, this episode offers a critical look at what’s happened so far—and what’s coming next.

    48 min

  6. 01/27/2025

    #15: Driving the Future of Training: Exploring Computer Mediated Learning

    In this episode of the Labored Thoughts podcast, Ian Andrews takes the wheel to dive into the transformative power of Computer Mediated Learning (CML) with industry leaders Greg Greiner, Managing Director of the Electrical Training Alliance, and Tim Hinson, a veteran trustee, and Senior Director of Workforce Development for Miller Electric, a NECA contractor. The discussion explores the evolution from blended learning to CML, its impact on apprenticeship training, and how it addresses workforce challenges in the electrical industry. Tune in to hear about the benefits of asynchronous learning, hands-on training integration, and the future of education in a tech-driven trade. Whether you're a trustee, contractor, or curious listener, this episode offers valuable insights into advancing the next generation of skilled workers.

    1h 1m

  7. 11/25/2024

    #14: What I Wish I Knew…When I Was New

    Whether you're just entering the industry, starting a job with a contractor or chapter, or have decades of experience under your belt, this episode has valuable insights for you. Our guests emphasize one crucial takeaway: the learning journey never ends.

    47 min

  8. 10/28/2024

    13: AI in Labor Relations: Enhancing Efficiency and Productivity

    In this engaging episode of Labored Thoughts, host Ryan Courtney, along with guests Ian Andrews and Jonathan Mandl, delves into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on labor relations and daily productivity. The team discusses various AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, providing insights into how these technologies can streamline tasks, enhance efficiency, and reclaim valuable time. They also explore the potential risks and limitations of AI, emphasizing the importance of using AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human expertise. The conversation is filled with practical examples, thoughtful reflections, and a touch of humor, making it an informative and enjoyable listen for anyone interested in the future of AI in the workplace.

    32 min
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About

Labor Relations is crucial to the success of NECA and its member companies. Join NECA’s labor relations experts for a bi-weekly discussion of all this complicated topic entails.

Information

  • Creator
    NECA Podcast Network
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Labored Thoughts
  • Show Website
    Labored Thoughts