Bringing talent into the electrical construction industry was always a passion for Hugh D. “Buz” Allison and his wife Irene “Betty” Allison.

Hugh D. Buz Irene Betty Allison“Buz” entered the industry in 1947 and one of his first companies, Oregon Electric Construction, became affiliated with NECA in 1960. He served the Oregon-Columbia Chapter NECA in numerous positions including President and Governor.

“Buz”, always a strong proponent of education, was instrumental in moving his Chapter’s training philosophy into the 21st Century. When ELECTRI broadened its outreach to top students across the United States, the Allisons responded with a $1 million gift to create The Allison Trust to support ELECTRI’s Talent Initiative.

Because of their vision, students have enhanced opportunities to enter the electrical construction industry and electrical contractors have access to qualified professionals ready to manage and supervise their projects. Together, they are building the workforce for tomorrow.