Mike Killian - IBEW Local 159

Mike Killian - IBEW Local 159

In Episode 4 of Trade Talk Wisconsin, we sit down with Mike Killian, Business Manager of IBEW Local 159, to talk about the electrical trade, Madison’s growing construction market, and what it takes to train the next generation of electricians. From homes, hospitals, and schools to data centers, EV infrastructure, and smart building systems, electricians power the projects and technology Wisconsin depends on every day. After our conversation with Mike, stick around for a special conversation with Mikey Richards, Matt Rash, and John Bothun about LEAN, Laborers Escaping Adversity Now, a peer support program helping Wisconsin laborers and their families navigate mental health challenges, substance use, and difficult moments.

Jeff Mehrhoff / Andy Buck - IUPAT DC 7

Spring has sprung! We’re talking finishing trades with Jeff Mehrhoff, Business Manager of IUPAT District Council 7, and Andy Buck, DC 7’s Director of Governmental Affairs. From painters and drywall finishers to glaziers, paint makers, and sign and display workers, the finishing trades help bring Wisconsin projects across the finish line.

Kent Miller - Wisconsin Laborers' District Council

In Episode 2 of Trade Talk Wisconsin, we sit down with Kent Miller, President of the Wisconsin Laborers' District Council. Kent explains what the laborers do, the unique elements of his union, and what it takes to build a strong workforce in Wisconsin.

Corey Gall - Wisconsin Pipe Trades Association

In Episode 1 of Trade Talk Wisconsin, we sit down with Corey Gall, President of the Wisconsin Pipe Trades Association. Corey breaks down what the pipe trades do, how union apprenticeship training works, and what it takes to build a strong workforce in Wisconsin. We also dig into the challenges ahead and what gives him confidence about the future.