• Posted: June 13, 2025
• better careers, better construction, electrical trades and parenting, fatherhood and mental health, IBEW Local 134, IBEW Local 134 member story, raising kids in the trades, union support for fathers

For Eddie O’Farrell, an IBEW Local 134 journeyman wireman working as an escalator mechanic for the CTA, fatherhood and union brotherhood are deeply connected. His story is one of commitment—to his kids, his trade, and his own healing.

That journey began in 1999, when Eddie enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS Curts FFG-38, working with satellite communications and fiber optic networks. He served honorably for four years before returning home to Chicago in 2003.

In 2002, during his military service, Eddie also stepped into the lifelong role of parent and stepparent, something he considers one of the most meaningful parts of his life. 

Inspired by the example of his parents—his father a firefighter and his mother a teacher, both union members—he pursued the trades and joined IBEW Local 134 on July 5, 2005. Next month will mark 20 years in the trade.

A father of four, Eddie speaks openly about the importance of being present and maintaining an emotional connection with his children. Whether he’s attending union meetings, advocating for mental health, or taking his kids to soccer practice and band performances, he’s intentional about the role he plays in their lives.

“I like to think my favorite part of being a dad is being the dad that my kids need,” he said. “That alone is just the best part.”

In October 2008, Eddie made another life-changing decision: he got sober. Nearly 17 years later, that commitment remains central to his growth and clarity as both a father and tradesman.

Eddie’s bond with his children is rooted in time, care, and daily effort, especially during the most challenging years of his life. A single parent who fought through six years of court battles for custody, from 2016 to 2022, Eddie credits the benefits and support of Local 134 with giving him the foundation to keep going.

“I would say my greatest accomplishment in life is fighting parental alienation and winning all my rights back to my kids and being able to maintain my career, which I owe… from my heart, I feel that I owe [my] 134 brothers and sisters that gratitude,” he said.

As he raised his children, Eddie found that the small everyday moments—riding bikes, singing lullabies, attending local games—meant the most.

“I hold all my kids. I know some people think that’s spoiling. You don’t get to hold them very much,” he said. “I mean, they’re our kids forever. They’re under our care legally to 18, but you might have half of that where they really want to be cool with you.”

That bond extends to how he supports his kids emotionally. Eddie is a strong advocate for therapy and mental health, something he embraces for himself and his family.

“When we go to therapy, my kids get to go in with a person who is a very trusted, trained professional. She is a great woman. I value that woman,” he said. “That’s the experience you want. You want experience you can count on.”

His story is also one of legacy. His oldest son, James, and one of his younger sons, Maddox, have expressed interest in joining Local 134, following in their father’s footsteps. Eddie’s example, rooted in consistency, accountability, and love, makes that path feel both possible and worthwhile.

Over the years, Eddie has contributed to large-scale projects, including the Pullman Solar Project, an early example of the city’s investment in renewable energy. He has also worked jobs in Indiana and Wisconsin through Book 2, but feels fortunate to have stayed rooted in Chicago to support his family.

“Without the support and acceptance of my parents, siblings, therapist, my kids’ bonus mom, and the brothers and sisters of 134, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish anything listed above,”said O’Farrell.  “I am and will remain grateful for all of them.”

Through it all, Eddie says what matters most isn’t success but personal fulfillment.

“Success is what somebody else thinks you got. Fulfillment is a very personal decision,” he said. “And that’s what I want to give my kids, a life that feels full.”This Father’s Day, Powering Chicago honors IBEW Local 134 members like Eddie—fathers, electricians, and leaders who strengthen their families and communities every day. Visit our website to see how Powering Chicago signatory contractors and the IBEW Local 134 electricians they employ are building a better future for communities across Chicagoland.