September is Suicide Prevention Month — a reminder that mental health is just as critical as physical safety. Tragically, our union family has already lost at least 7 members to suicide this year.
That heartbreaking reality, combined with the accidents and critical incidents our members face on the job every day, is why IBEW 1245 launched its Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) program in 2025 — to ensure no member faces crisis alone.
“The work IBEW 1245 members do is critical, dangerous, and demanding,” said IBEW 1245 Business Manager Bob Dean. “Whether it’s restoring power in the middle of a storm or witnessing a co-worker get injured or worse, the physical risks are real, and so are the emotional ones.”
What Is CISM?
CISM is a peer-led IBEW 1245 program that offers immediate and ongoing support to members in the aftermath of trauma.
CISM is designed to decrease the severity of stress reactions after a traumatic event and prevent long-term harm like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The program is led by fellow union members who are specially trained to provide confidential, compassionate support.
CISM supports individuals and workgroups who’ve experienced critical incidents such as:
Serious on-the-job injuries
Fatalities
Violent attacks or robberies
Suicides
Natural disasters, wildfires, or other traumatic events
What to Expect When CISM Responds
When a critical incident occurs, the CISM team moves quickly. Led by Jody Castro, IBEW Safety Director and Fred Aboud, Business Representative and CISM Coordinator, the team responds right away.
Once on site or at the hospital, the CISM team explains the process, checks immediate needs, and offers support to the member, their crew, and their family. Support can take the form of a private one-on-one conversation or a group discussion with the crew, depending on what’s most appropriate in the moment. In either case, members can count on a confidential, judgment-free space without pressure or expectation.
“What strikes me most is how deeply our members care for one another after a crisis,” said Jody Castro, IBEW 1245 Safety Director. “They’ll put a brother or sister’s needs ahead of their own. CISM is about reminding them that they deserve the same support.”
Why It Matters
CISIM is a program built on union values: solidarity, care, and the belief that no member should face crisis alone. And when the person sitting across from you knows your work, your risks, and your reality, it changes everything.
“We want our members to know that in those first difficult hours, and in the days after, they’re not alone,” said Business Rep and CISM coordinator, Fred Aboud. “We’re here for them and for their families.”
How to Access CISM
If you, a coworker, or your crew has experienced a traumatic incident — or if you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or concerned about someone’s well-being — contact your Business Rep or the IBEW 1245 office at 707-237-3222 to be connected with a CISM team member.
If you or someone you know is in immediate crisis, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
All conversations are confidential, judgment-free, and focused on making sure you get the care and support you need. Because we’re stronger together.