Formed to protect workers rights, ensure fair wages and benefits and enhance the image of the electrical worker, the "National Brotherhood of Electrical Workers" was chartered by the American Federation Of Labor in St. Louis in 1891. This group became the "International" in 1901 with the induction of a Canadian affiliate in 1899. To meet the skilled manpower needs of the electrical contracting industry, the IBEW and NECA sponsor a comprehensive apprenticeship and training program. The IBEW and NECA also sponsor advanced training in specialized areas.