Receive Spring Salute Future of Labor Award
Al Fortier, Rene Cruz Martinez, Assemblymember Lori Wilson, Mike Tilden, James Olson, and Amanda Copp
The Napa-Solano Central Labor Council honored IBEW 1245’s Organizing Steward program at their annual Spring Gala. The award was accepted by Organizing Staff leadership Al Fortier and Rene Cruz Martinez alongside Organizing Stewards James Olson and Amanda Copp.
IBEW 1245 Business Representative and Vice President of the Napa-Solano Labor Council Mike Tilden reflected on the significance of the award.
“The IBEW 1245 Organizing Stewards represent the heart and soul of our Union’s fight for dignity, justice, and solidarity. These members don’t wait for change, they create it. Through relentless effort, personal sacrifice, and unwavering courage, they’ve stood on the front lines of campaigns that have shaped the labor movement across Napa and Solano counties, throughout the state of California, and beyond.
Napa-Solano Labor Council Executive Director: Glenn Loveall and President: Lily Starling; Napa Supervisor Joelle Gallager; Organizing steward: Amanda Copp; Assemblymember Lori Wilson; Organizing steward: James Olson; Al Fortier; Napa Supervisor Belia Ramos; Mike Tilden; Rene Cruz Martinez and Victor Hernandez, Organizer at Insulators Local 16
They’ve knocked on doors, rallied in the streets, built coalitions, and spoken truth to power, all while balancing the demands of their own jobs and families. But what sets them apart most isn’t just their activism, it’s their leadership. They inspire others to stand taller, speak louder, and believe in their collective power. They are the engine of our movement and living proof that when workers unite, there is no limit to what we can achieve. They’re the embodiment of the phrase “When we fight, we win!â€
Tonight, we honor them not just for what they’ve done, but for what they continue to ignite, a future rooted in courage, solidarity, and purpose. The IBEW 1245 Organizing Stewards are not just receiving an award, they are reminding us all of what it means to lead with heart.â€
Congratulations to IBEW 1245 Organizing Staff and Stewards!
