Segments on Electric TV, an online video platform that focuses on work by electrical contractors and electricians, typically feature top projects across the country. However, the cameras recently zoomed in on local electricians doing good in the community.
A story shot in February and expected to air in July centers around “Joe” Dickey Electric’s involvement with the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley. The North Lima-based electrical contractor had a crucial role in the construction of the Volunteer Resource Center on Market Street in Boardman.
Eric Carlson, Dickey Electric’s president, and his wife, Bethany, also served as 2023 campaign co-chairs and helped raise more than $3.7 million for the organization.
“This isn’t just about building structures; it’s about building stronger communities,” Carlson said.
A local focus on a national stage
One way local electricians and electrical contractors are trying to accomplish that goal is through volunteer work at the United Way’s Satur-Day of Caring.
“This was a story we couldn’t pass up,” said Mark Verver, director of production, Oswego Creative, which produces content for Electric TV. “The work these electricians do in their communities deserves recognition. Their impact goes beyond the job site.”
Verver is usually busy capturing progress on large-scale projects for NECA and IBEW contractors. He said this story shows a different side of the electrical industry.
The connection was initiated by Scott Satterlee, former IBEW Local 64 business manager, who’s now the IBEW 4th district international representative. He pitched the idea at the national level about the electricians’ commitment to the United Way and Satur-Day of Caring.
“Scott reached out to me looking for features in the district, and this was something I thought was deserving of the attention,” Carlson said.
The humanity in the electrical industry
In February, Electric TV came to the Volunteer Resource Center to interview Carlson about his career with Dickey Electric and the company’s ties to United Way. The cameras also followed the action at the Satur-Day of Caring.
Members from IBEW Locals 64 and 573, alongside NECA Mahoning Valley contractors and other volunteers, gathered to pack and deliver groceries to area families.
The event is held on the third Saturday of every month, and electricians participate on a regular basis. February’s event was one of the largest turnouts, reflecting the initiative’s growing support.
“Our electricians take pride in giving back, and Satur-Day of Caring is an incredibly rewarding experience,” Carlson said.
The Electric TV segment will be published on its website and social media platforms. A link to the segment will also be posted on NECA-IBEW Electricians’ social media platforms.
“This kind of work strengthens our communities,” Carlson added. “We’re honored to be part of it, and we appreciate Electric TV for helping us share this story with the world.”
NECA-IBEW Electricians makes up a highly trained union workforce in the area. We’re an association of IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors throughout the Mahoning Valley.