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FROM THE BUSINESS MANAGER
Hello Local 44 members. I hope everyone’s summer is off to a good start. As of this writing, we have 3 open calls on our job board and mainly the books are clear except for the Groundman classification, where we still have numerous individuals on book 4 looking for work. As the summer construction season progresses, it is my hope that our employers continue to place calls for manpower, and we get all our people a job. I often receive inquiring calls, from out of staters, about the work picture in our jurisdiction. Travelers keep an eye on Montana because, let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to work throughout the Summer and Fall here.
Another topic that’s been weighing on my mind recently is the concept of effective teamwork. How can we improve our togetherness, our solidarity, and our unity as a brotherhood and sisterhood. How can we improve our communications and increase our sense of purpose as an organization. Why do the staff at Local 44 try so hard to communicate effectively, provide guidance, and motivate member participation at all levels? Why does it seem like fostering involvement is like pulling teeth, sometimes? Well, obviously teamwork presents challenges on many levels because of differing perspectives and those ever-present communication barriers. If only all of us could actively listen and then recognize what message is trying to be sent, instead of hearing what we think is being said and twist that message into something that’s not real. I’m certainly not an expert listener (just ask my better half, haha) but I am trying to be more of an active listener to avoid unnecessary conflicts. Again, how do we improve teamwork and inspire collaboration that will positively impact the individuals in our organization? My main point of this article is merely to get our membership thinking of ways to make a positive difference in your Local Union. Ask yourself a few questions. Am I choosing to be an involved active member and to what extent, am I a good communicator, am I a good listener, and above all else, am I a good teammate? You’re probably thinking, now Scott define “good.”
Fraternally,
Scott Klungland
FROM THE ASSISTANT BUSINESS MANAGER
Even though July is warm and the temp won’t allow me to wear a hoody for a while I’m sure I’ll get over it due to Independence Day and the Lineman Rodeo. Ever since I joined the IBEW I am proud to say I have made all but one Montana Lineman Rodeo. I think I had an ok excuse though as it fell on the same day that our first son Mason was born. The Rodeo has held a special place in my heart for many years now. I would like to extend a thank you from the very bottom of my heart to everyone that has made the Rodeo happen through all these years. You all know who you are and there are way too many people to mention. Hold your heads high as you all do and know that I appreciate each and every one of you! I am certainly not going to wish time away but I’m sure as it is for most of us it is the one day a year that we see all of those who invested so much in us to get us where we are today. I am very much looking forward to attending and I hope you are too.
Can’t Thank All of You Enough,
Your Brother,
Kyle Hintz
(406) 565-3250
khintz@ibew44.org
MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZER
Happy Birthday America!! And a Happy 4th of July to all! I hope everyone’s summer has kicked off in a great way with some time on the lake or some relaxing time camping. Summer is a great time of the year while living in Montana, we can enjoy the outdoors the way they are meant to be enjoyed.
The work picture looks good with only one open call and just a few on the out of work books. We have been able to fill many calls to date with a lot of them including some great working hours. So hopefully everyone is working the time they want and saving up for the Holidays.
I hope to see everyone at the Rodeo in Townsend on July 19th and just a quick reminder for anyone interested on Friday morning of the 18th we will be gathering at the Townsend golf course for a quick scramble and then to the Rodeo grounds for the afternoon events.
Your Brother,
Boe Shuman
(406) 533-8170
RETIRED MEMBERS
Local 44 would like to congratulate the following member who has retired from the trade:
Peter Heal
Best wishes for a long and happy retirement!
THE 32nd ANNUAL MONTANA LINEMAN’S RODEO
July 18-19, 2025
Townsend, MT
It’s that time of year again! The Montana Lineman’s Rodeo returns for its 32nd annual gathering, bringing together linemen, families, and supporters for a weekend of camaraderie, competition, and celebration. We’re thrilled to be back at the Townsend Fairgrounds for our second year, where the community welcomed us with open arms last year.
Friday Night Kickoff
Join us for a fun-filled evening featuring food trucks, socializing, a beer garden, packet pickup, shirt and raffle sales. We will also hold our Lantern Ceremony, honoring those we have lost over the past year. If you would like to pay tribute to someone in this ceremony, please contact Tab Dixon. Closing out the night, we welcome back Jimmy Louder, the voice of MTLRA, for an evening of great music and karaoke.
Saturday’s Main Event
The opening ceremony begins at 7:45 AM, as the third-year MSLCAT apprentices raise our nation’s colors, marking the start of an exciting competition day. Shortly after, linemen will compete in a series of challenging events that run into the afternoon. But this rodeo isn’t just for linemen—there are plenty of events for everyone, including the Backhoe Rodeo, Ladies Pole Climb, and a sandbox for kids, ensuring fun for the entire family! Later in the day, we’ll enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner sponsored by Local 44. (A reminder: This is the Local 44 Membership Picnic, and all Local 44 members are welcome to join us.)
We will then continue the celebration with the Local 44 service pin presentation, silent auction, live auction, awards ceremony, and raffle prize drawings. Wrapping up the night, enjoy live music from the Wayne Brothers Band!
Register Today!
If you haven’t already registered online, sign-up is now available at www.mtlra.org.
For any questions, feel free to contact Dave or Tab Dixon.
We look forward to seeing you in July!
Dave and Tab Dixon
IN MEMORIAM
Local 44 mourns the loss of the following members:
Cody Salveson – Lineman – passed away 5/20/25
Samuel Atkins, Jr. – Journeyman Lineman - passed away 5/22/25
William Pedersen – Journeyman Lineman – passed away 5/2/25
Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of these Brothers.
JULY UNIT MEETING
General Membership July 12, 2025 12:00 PM Local 44 Office
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