World-Class IBEW Craftsmanship & Camaraderie
The EPIC Center is one of those jobs that will go down in Local 332 history. With more than 250 members on site from Rosendin, Prime, Sprig, and a few smaller shops, we’re using our world-class skills to deliver power on this three-story, 600,000 sq. ft. semi-conductor research and development facility. As we have with so many of Silicon Valley’s key buildings, tech campuses, hospitals, and schools, 332 is leaving our mark.
Construction began in 2024, and the initial build-out has a target completion date later this year. But this isn’t a one-and-done project. The building is designed to evolve, with a modular approach that allows the client to adapt and expand as their R&D needs change. This will support construction work for years to come.
332 members and contractors alike remarked that the site is an engineering feat, and that the coordination among the different trades and multiple electrical contractors has gone remarkably well. This speaks to the partnership between the IBEW and the contractors, as well as the value 332 members bring.
“IBEW members consistently deliver a level of professionalism and craftsmanship that sets the standard on complex projects,” said Dirk Koopman, project director for Hoffman Construction Company, the general contractor. “The skills they bring enable teams to work safely and efficiently, which is essential for delivering high‑quality work on schedule. From a project delivery standpoint, our partnership with the IBEW builds consistency, accountability, and trust, all of which are vital to successfully executing these large and challenging projects.”
The IBEW Partnership with Rosendin, Prime, and Sprig
“There’s a reason why Local 332 has been able to negotiate record-breaking contracts for our members,” said Pete Seaberg, 332 business manager. “The contractors rely on our skilled labor to deliver for their bottom line, and they appreciate our commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement. In turn, Local 332 appreciates the contractors for the opportunities they bring to our members and their commitment to building Silicon Valley together. There’s mutual respect, and the partnership is a win-win for everyone involved.”
Behind the Scenes: The Largest Job Site Photo Shoot in Local 332 History
To pull off a photo shoot of this size, Local 332 leaned into our partnership with the contractors to coordinate, and 332 shop stewards on site escorted the 332 team. Bottom left: 332 Business Rep Chris Maag with his 2nd Gen 332 son Wesley was on point for the Local. Middle: 332 shop stewards, Ronnie Lynds, Nam Trinh, Tony Le, and Javier Preciado escorted the photographer and introduced the members. Right: 332 photographer Brooke Anderson, with 332 President Peter Huber, Maag, and Lynds, shot more than 2000 photos.
332 Shop Stewards on the EPIC Center Build
Tony Le, Prime Steward
Tony has been a member of IBEW Local 332 for 10 years and is shaping the future of the trade on and off the job.
At the Epic Center site, he serves as a shop steward and is part of the quality assurance team, ensuring the customer gets exactly what was ordered and running test scripts later in the process. He is also developing an HVAC controls class at the ETASV, investing in the next generation of 332 electricians.
“This job is going to be on the map for years; it’s the kind of project people will remember for decades to come. I’m excited to be part of it.
“Being a steward means being available to both the members and contractors. This is a unique job with a lot of odd hours and special circumstances, so it’s about showing up when needed and making sure the labor agreement is observed. That protects both the workers and the contractors—it’s a benefit to everyone. At the end of the day, it’s absolutely a partnership.
“I want to give a shout out to Jeff Blevins, a foreman with Prime. I’m always trying to continue my education, and he’s taught me a lot on this job. I really appreciate someone taking the time to mentor another member. As we like to say, ‘we’re earning while we’re learning.’ There’s plenty to learn and plenty to pass on.”
Ronnie Lynds, Prime Steward
Ronnie has been a member since 1998 and is thankful to be part of delivering the complex work on the Epic Center job.
“This job is one of a kind—I’ve never worked on anything like it. I told a kid who had only been in the trades for two weeks, ‘You’ll work your whole career and never see a job like this.’
“The amount of engineering here is incredible. They had one of the largest cranes in the world, lifting 260,000lb. trusses. And some of the one-line pipe runs going into the main switchgear are intense. We’ve packed in as many as 85 pipes into one piece of gear.
“As a steward, I’m here to support and educate members about their rights. A big part of is resolving conflicts where there is a win-win solution. We have to be fair-minded and respectful because we have to work together. And, of course, I love handing out the swag.
“I want to give a shout-out to Joe Rogers, who’s been like a mentor to me. He has shown me the finer points of being a foreman/wireman, and how to plan the work right the first time. How to study the drawings and look ahead so we don’t run into problems later and need to rip out the walls. He knows the agreement inside and out. Some of us call him Captain Cranky Pants, but deep down, he’s a good guy.”
Nam Trinh, Rosendin Steward
Nam pictured (L) with Engelberto Berumen (R) has been a 332 member for 23 years. He leans into his experience to navigate one of the most complex builds in Silicon Valley and appreciates the work of his fellow shop stewards on site.
“This job is very industrial and robust—so much steel, so much electrical gear, and each of the three floors is completely different. There’s a lot of new technology, and the amount of engineering and electrical work going into this building is incredible.
“One of the most noteworthy things about this build is that it could probably take a hit from a meteor and still stand. Usually, a floor is about six inches thick, but here some are three feet thick with concrete and rebar. One has a waffle ceiling where each panel can be removed so you can pipe up through the floor.
“Being a steward is about giving back to the union and the membership. I feel good when I can solve problems and support people. It’s a call of duty—helping the job run smoothly and being there when members need it.
“I want to shout out all the stewards who step up. It takes time, and you’re dealing with everyone’s issues—I joke that it’s like HR on site. It’s not easy, and I respect anyone willing to sacrifice for the betterment of the union.”
Javier Preciado, Sprig Steward
Javier has been a 332 member since 2006, celebrating his 20th anniversary. Over the years, he’s worked on major projects, including Levi’s Stadium and SJO Terminal B. Epic Center is the largest, with the most electricians and one of the most complex jobs in the region.
“What’s really unusual about the Epic Center job is how many different electrical contractors are on site. I haven’t seen that before.
“Being in the Local this long, I’ve seen a lot—data centers, clean rooms, industrial work—and I’ve been able to get my hands on all kinds of things. Here, there’s a lot of medium voltage work. I’m taking a class at the ETASV and hoping to get more hands-on experience with splicing. I’m always looking to keep learning.
“As a steward, a big part of the role is just interacting with people—checking in on how their day is going, what problems they’re running into, and where I can help. Being social is a key part of the job.
“I want to give a shout-out to a crew doing medium voltage rigid work: Ezequiel Osornio and Abraham Hernandez, both apprentices, and journeyman Rudy Bravo. It’s precise work with a lot of heaving lifting. They show up with a pleasant attitude, knock it out, and are just good guys to be working around.”
EPIC Center Build: Just a Few of the Local 332 Members on Site
Jesse Jimenez, Prime, New Member
“I have been in the union for four months now. I worked for a nonunion company in Santa Cruz for eight years before that. I decided to come to Local 332 because I wanted to grow in my career. Being in the IBEW is providing greater opportunities and opening more doors for me and my family. It’s been a blessing ever since.”
Billy Khan (R) with Jadon Maciel, Rosendin
“I was born and raised in San Jose and have been in IBEW just under 11 years. I took my first dispatch as a material handler trainee making $16.40 a hour. I love the fact that I can work on different jobs and provide for my family. I am a girl dad and am very active in youth sports. I help run a nonprofit, All In Sports, to help low-income families to be able to play youth soccer!”
Jim Camello, Sprig, 30-Year 332 Member
“I’ve been an IBEW member for 30 years, and coming up on 16 with Sprig. I’ve been fortunate enough to be working continuously for all 30 of those years. I have two nephews that are proud IBEW members: David Camello, Local 332, and Stephen Hutchins, Local 595. I am one proud uncle! I have met so many great people over the years, many of whom I call great friends.”
Nichole Hall, Prime
“My experiences as a woman in the trades have shaped how I see the world. I strive to build a more inclusive future for my children. I want my daughter to grow up knowing she can be anything—from a firefighter to a ballerina—without limitations. I want my son to understand that women are just as capable as men and to respect and support those breaking barriers.”
Marissa Smith, Sprig Foreman, 2nd Gen 332
“I’ve been in 332 for seven years and wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps (also a 332 member at Sprig). A fun fact about me is I love horses. Currently I have four. Every day after work I go straight to the barn and ride, groom, and train them for shows. I’ve wanted horses since I was a little girl, and being in 332 has allowed me to continue my passion and share it with everyone.”
Joe Rogers, Prime, last job before retirement
“I have been a union electrician for 35 years. Before that, I was working in mental health. I needed something to help me raise my family and provide a good life for them. My father was a union carpenter and my uncle was in Local 6. My dad said I’d never regret it, and I have enjoyed every year. I want to retire, but I will miss the brotherhood of being on the job.”
Johnny Ordaz (L) with Jeff Vigilante, Sprig
“I’m grateful for the opportunities the IBEW has given me and the doors it has opened in my life. I’m a family person, and I’ve been able to help my parents and give back to my family. It’s also allowed me to afford travel. I’ve always wanted to see the world, and I’ve done that this past year. I’ll continue my travel adventures and visit plenty of soccer stadiums along the way.”
Nolan Barber, Rosendin, 2nd Gen 332
“I’ve been a member for seven years. I went to college and could tell right away I wasn’t interested. I saw that my dad provided us with a good life through his trade and wanted to emulate that for my own family. He’s been with Cupertino Electric since 1989. Fun fact about me is I’m a DJ on the side for fun. I do it for friends’ birthdays or in nightclubs when I can get a slot.”
Contractors’ Corner: A Word from Rosendin, Prime, and Sprig
“IBEW labor represents the gold standard in electrical contracting. Quality, professionalism, and accountability ensure superior craftsmanship and on-time delivery to our client.” — Alma Hwang, Sprig construction executive
“As the son of an electrician, I have always looked up to IBEW members. They always show accountability and pride in their work. They’re reliable, safety-focused, and consistently deliver quality. That’s what makes the difference on any project.” — Joe Loera, Rosendin project manager
“IBEW electricians take real pride in their work, bringing professionalism and hands-on training that show in the quality of craftsmanship on every project.” — Mike Carpenter, Prime senior project manager
