El Paso, Texas – The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) took a historic step for its football program on Monday, unveiling a new jersey patch for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). The partnership, brokered by Van Wagner on behalf of UTEP Athletics, will see the IBEW logo appear on every Miner football uniform beginning this fall, the team’s inaugural season in the Mountain West Conference.
Two patches, one community
UTEP’s Vice President and Director of Athletics Jim Senter said the addition makes UTEP the first school in the Mountain West to feature two jersey sponsors. The existing GECU patch will remain, while the IBEW emblem joins it on the sleeves of the Miners’ competition uniforms.
“We’re thrilled to announce this partnership with IBEW,” Senter said. “Their members have been powering our country for over a century, boosting our infrastructure and economy. We’re excited to have them on board and helping to power our football team!”
IBEW sees the partnership as a bridge to the community
IBEW Local 583 Treasurer Dave Leno echoed the sentiment, noting the organization’s deep roots in El Paso. “This partnership gives our organization an opportunity to stand alongside the Miners while connecting our members, families, and the greater El Paso community with a program that means so much to this region. We are proud to support UTEP, proud to support El Paso, and proud to be part of the Miner family.”
IBEW represents roughly 901,000 active members and retirees across utilities, construction, telecommunications, broadcasting, manufacturing, railroads, and government. The collaboration underscores the union’s commitment to local youth, education, and the region’s economic vitality.
What the patch means for fans and families
For Miners supporters, the dual‑patch design offers a visible reminder of the partnership between a major trade union and a beloved college football program. It also highlights the broader role of families and workers who keep the nation’s infrastructure humming – a theme that resonates with the community’s values of hard work, faith, and family.
Local businesses and families can expect increased visibility for IBEW through game‑day promotions, community outreach events, and potential scholarship opportunities tied to the partnership. The university plans to feature IBEW representatives at select home games and community gatherings, reinforcing the connection between the grid‑workers who power the region and the athletes who energize the stadium.
Looking ahead
As the Miners prepare for their first season in the Mountain West, the new jersey patch adds a layer of pride and local identity to the team’s brand. The collaboration also sets a precedent for other conference schools that may consider similar community‑focused sponsorships.
UTEP Athletics will continue to explore partnerships that align with the university’s mission to serve the El Paso community, support student‑athletes, and celebrate the region’s hardworking families.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
