Local 1620 was established on August 15, 1949, when a dedicated group of utility workers came together with a shared vision: to create a stronger voice in the workplace and build a better future for themselves, their families, and the generations that would follow. 

Led by Founding President Richard (Dick) Murphy, those early members worked tirelessly to organize, secure representation, and negotiate the Local’s first collective agreement with Newfoundland Light and Power. Their determination laid the foundation for a union built on fairness, respect, and the belief that workers are strongest when they stand together. 

Murphy served as Founding President from 1949 to 1962, providing steady leadership during the Local’s formative years. His commitment helped establish a strong relationship with the employer and set the course for decades of growth, improved working conditions, and better opportunities for electrical workers across Newfoundland and Labrador. 

Over the decades, Local 1620 has grown alongside Newfoundland and Labrador’s electrical utility industry. Through changing technologies, evolving workplaces, and new generations of skilled tradespeople, our commitment has remained the same – to protect our members, advocate for safe working conditions, and strengthen the communities we serve. 

Today, we proudly honour the leaders and members whose dedication shaped our history. Their legacy lives on in every experienced member mentoring the next generation, and every worker who continues to uphold the values of solidarity, professionalism, and excellence that have defined Local 1620 since 1949.  

Their story is our foundation. Our members are our future.