IBEW Local 1245 Women’s Committee
Sacramento, CA – In the past two years, the IBEW 1245 Women’s Committee has helped 39 women enter the skilled trades, a milestone that was among the many accomplishments celebrated at the Committee’s annual brunch aboard the Delta King on October 25.
This year’s annual brunch celebration, themed “Rising Against the Tides of Resilience,” brought together union sisters and brothers and aspiring tradeswomen to recognize the Committee’s growing impact, share personal stories and celebrate the women helping open doors for others.
The event was emceed by Women’s Committee member Karyn Newmark and it started off with remarks by both IBEW 1245 Business Manager Bob Dean and President Cecelia De La Torre. They commended the Committee for its growth and the work its members are doing to bring more women into the union and the skilled trades.
IBEW Local 1245 Women’s Committee Brunch in Sacramento, Calif. on October 25, 2026.
Recognizing Grit and Grace
The Committee presented IBEW 1245 organizer and former Women’s Committee advisor Eileen Purcell and Women’s Committee Chair and Business Representative Nicole Brooks with its inaugural Grit and Grace Awards, recognizing women whose leadership, determination and compassion have made a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Purcell was recognized for her decades of advocacy for working people, her role in developing IBEW 1245’s Organizing Steward program and her commitment to mentoring future leaders.
Brooks was honored for her leadership of the Women’s Committee and her dedication to helping women find opportunities and succeed in the trades. Her mentorship has helped women navigate hiring processes, overcome setbacks and gain the confidence to pursue careers they may not have otherwise considered possible.
As Newmark explained during the presentation, the awards recognize women who not only fight to earn their place at the table, but make sure there is a seat for the next woman.
Sharing Their Stories
Some of the most meaningful moments of the brunch came from women who shared their personal journeys into the trades and the difference that union membership and mentorship have made in their lives.
Journeyman Lineman Destrey Schafer recalled working in a cubicle in 2019, frustrated by limited opportunities for advancement and determined to find something more fulfilling. When she expressed interest in linework, she was initially told the job was too dangerous for a woman and encouraged to pursue office work instead.
Rather than give up, Schafer enrolled in climbing school, became a groundman and eventually entered the CALNEV apprenticeship. Along the way, she encountered people who questioned whether women belonged in the trade, but also found experienced linemen who supported her and helped her succeed.
Journeyman Lineman Destrey Schafer
Now a journeyman lineman, Schafer said she is grateful to belong to a union where her wages and opportunities are based on her skills and hard work, not her gender.
“The IBEW has leveled the playing field for me, despite the ones who said women shouldn’t play at all,” she said. “Ive had so many opportunities open up to me.”
Sofia Vega, a PG&E Routine Field Clerk and mother, spoke about how joining IBEW 1245 changed her life and helped her build a more stable future for her children. She credited the Women’s Committee and Brooks with providing encouragement and guidance as she entered the union, helping her gain confidence and independence while building a community she can rely on.
“Being part of IBEW 1245 has given me something that I believe every woman deserves: stability, opportunity, confidence, and a sense of belonging,” Vega said.
Zarina Ditta, a PG&E Hiring Hall Operating Clerk, shared how Committee members helped her navigate what initially felt like an overwhelming hiring process. From answering questions to helping with paperwork and explaining the next steps, their support helped her begin her career at PG&E.
“I know you help so many people every day, and you may not always realize the impact you make on someone’s life,” Ditta told the Committee. “But I want you to know that you made a real difference in mine.”
Jazmine Barnes, a PG&E Traffic Control Flagger, described how her career took an unexpected turn after four years of college. She credited Brooks with helping her feel supported and connected as she began working at PG&E, and spoke about the sense of community she found through IBEW 1245.
“I found not just a career path, but a family of workers who show up for each other every day,” Barnes said.
The brunch also featured Scarlette Ponce, an aspiring welder who is still working toward her goal of entering the trades. Growing up, Ponce was encouraged to pursue college, but she knew she wanted a career working with her hands. Despite setbacks during the application and testing process, she has continued pursuing opportunities with encouragement from Brooks, who urged her to explore every possible avenue into the trades.
Scarlette Ponce, an aspiring welder
“Whether you’re already established in your career or, like me, still trying to get your foot in the door, knowing that other women have faced similar challenges makes the journey feel a lot less intimidating,” Ponce said.
“I couldn’t be prouder of the women on this Committee,” said Brooks. “Every one of them brings something different to the table, and I’ve watched them grow into incredible leaders and representatives of IBEW 1245. They put so much of their own time and energy into helping other women succeed, and we’re seeing the results. We’ve helped 39 women get into the trades and 1245 union jobs in just the past two years, and we’re not slowing down.”
Interested in learning more? IBEW 1245 members who would like to learn more about the Women’s Committee can visit ibew1245.com/womens-committee.
IBEW 1245 Women’s Committee Members: Nicole Brooks (Chair), Julie Anderson, Tiffany Clemons, Nicole Caldwell, Iyasha Davis, Tierney Foster, Cassandra Gamez, Kaycee King, Sandra Martinez, Karyn Newmark, Juana Perez Ochoa and Jennifer Boychuk. Former Advisor: Eileen Purcell.
