Announcement of IUOE Local 150 Officers
February 27, 2026
Brothers and Sisters,
IUOE Local 150 is proud to announce the appointment of George W. Antos as Recording-Corresponding Secretary. Brother Antos was officially sworn in on Friday, February 27, 2026.
A 37-year member of Local 150, Brother Antos represents the very best of our union — a skilled operator, dedicated instructor, and proven leader. After completing the Local 150 Apprenticeship Program, he built his career as a journeyman crane operator in the field, earning a reputation for professionalism, precision, and deep technical expertise. His real-world experience laid the foundation for his transition into leadership roles, where he has consistently demonstrated integrity, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to the membership.
Brother Antos served as an instructor at the Training Center, where he helped shape and mentor the next generation of operators, before becoming a Business Agent for DuPage County. Most recently, as Coordinator of the William E. Dugan Training Center, he has overseen one of the most advanced training operations in the country.
Under his leadership, the Training Center was brought from operating in the red to achieving more than $111 million in reserves within six years. He oversees 86 employees within the over 400,000-square-foot facility that sits on 300 acres and manages an annual operating budget of $28 million. Brother Antos oversees the Apprenticeship Program, which includes 1,200 Apprentices each year— a testament to his discipline, strict adherence to standards, and attention to detail. These efforts have helped Local 150 meet unprecedented workforce demand, with man-hours projected to reach nearly 30 million this year.
Brother Antos also spearheaded the expansion of the Training Center’s indoor training arena, a project that began in 2024 and was completed in 2025. Now recognized as the largest indoor training arena in the world, the facility has been utilized every day since opening, further solidifying Local 150’s reputation as a global leader in workforce development.
Beyond operations and training, Brother Antos has overseen the Local 150 Annual Family Picnic, welcoming nearly 10,000 members and their families each year. Coordinating food, activities, logistics, and entertainment on that scale requires the same leadership, organization, and steady oversight that define his career.
Brother Antos brings to his new role as an Officer the unique perspective of a tradesman, educator, and executive. His experience, character, and forward-thinking leadership will serve Local 150 well as we continue to grow and meet the challenges of the future. In proud tradition of Local 150 – following leaders such as former Vice President Jim Ness and other officers who have risen from serving as Coordinator of the Training Center – his appointment underscores the vital importance our union places on education and preparing the next generation. That commitment to training and mentorship remains central to the strength and future of Local 150.
Local 150 also is proud to announce that John L. Ahlgrim will assume the role of Director of Contract Negotiations. A dedicated leader and fierce negotiator, Brother Ahlgrim has consistently fought to secure the strongest possible contracts for our members. His toughness at the bargaining table, combined with a deep understanding of the industry and our membership’s priorities, ensures that Local 150 will continue to set the standard in wages, benefits, and protections that make this union a leader in labor across the country.
Additionally, Martin J. Durkan will take on expanded responsibilities as Assistant to the President-Business Manager. Brother Durkan is known for his decisive leadership and his ability to clearly assess members’ needs and translate them into strong, strategic action at the negotiating table. Respected for his firm approach and unwavering commitment to enforcement, he ensures that agreements are not only won but upheld. His disciplined, results-driven mindset will further strengthen Local 150’s ability to protect and advance the interests of its membership.
Together, these officers embody the skill, dedication, and leadership that define IUOE Local 150. Their experience and vision position our organization not only to meet today’s challenges, but to lead confidently into the future.
Please join us in congratulating them on their well-earned appointments and continued service to the membership.
In Solidarity,
James M. Sweeney
President-Business Manager
IUOE Local 150
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