~ Springfield, Dec. 3, 2025 - Local Journeyman Chase Blackburn of IBEW Local Union 453 will be honored for his outstanding achievement as the winner of the 2025 IBEW National Apprentice of the Year award. The ceremony will take place on Dec. 11 at 4 p.m. at the IBEW Headquarters located at 2902 E. Division in Springfield.

Blackburn's nomination for this prestigious award came from a fellow apprentice and was selected from a pool of approximately 55,000 apprentices nationwide. This annual award, presented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, recognizes the importance of apprentices and their role as future leaders in the electrical industry.

In an interview, Blackburn humbly credited his success to those who took the time to teach him the trade. "This award isn't just about me; it's about the people who took the time to teach me and show me what it means to be a good brother and a leader," he said. "This is a win for Local 453 and the high standard our members set every day."

More on Missouriar

• Automation, innovation in healthcare processes featured at international conference in Atlanta
• Columbia: Community members invited to presentation on City's CARE program
• Columbia: East Walnut Street eastbound lane closure between Eighth and Ninth streets begins Jan. 15
• A High-Velocity Growth Story Emerges in Marine and Luxury Markets
• $26 Billion Global Market by 2035 for Digital Assets Opens Major Potential for Currency Tech Company with ATM Expansion and Deployment Plans Underway

Kevin McGill, Business Manager for IBEW Local Union 453, praised Blackburn's dedication and work ethic during his apprenticeship. "Chase made a decision early on that this was an opportunity for a career, and he applied himself both in the classroom and on job sites," McGill said. "His willingness to lead by example, along with his problem-solving abilities, have been recognized by many coworkers."

IBEW Training Director Bryan Hensley also commended Blackburn's achievements and highlighted his role in shaping future generations of Journeyman Wiremen. "Chase is an excellent example of what we are looking for in our next generation," Hensley said. "Thanks to him and many others like him, our organization has a bright future."

Founded over 130 years ago, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers has been a leading force in the electrical industry. Local Union 453, which has been in existence for 95 years, is proud to have Blackburn as their first apprentice from Springfield to win this prestigious award. The award was presented to Blackburn at the IBEW's national conference in Washington DC.

For more information about the ceremony, please contact Jeb Venable at 417-869-7251. The public is invited to attend and celebrate Blackburn's achievement.

---

Show All News | Report Violation