In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, host Jaime Cruz welcomes Leslie Mujica, Executive Director and Chief Marketing Officer for the Southern Nevada International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Labor Management Cooperation Committee (LMCC), also known as Las Vegas Power Professionals. Leslie shares her inspiring journey, from being born in Guatemala City and immigrating to the U.S. as a child to attending Hollywood High School and earning her degrees in Journalism (PR focus) and Sociology from Cal State Northridge, followed by a master’s in public administration from UNLV. Her dedication to community outreach and workforce development has made her a key advocate for skilled union jobs, safety, and workforce training in Southern Nevada.
Leslie’s career path took her through the construction industry, where she discovered her passion for labor relations and workforce advocacy. She speaks about her early work experiences, starting at McDonald's at 15 (after forging her mom’s signature for a work permit!) and balancing jobs in retail and the movie theater industry while pursuing higher education. After working in construction management, she transitioned into her current leadership role, where she champions union careers, apprenticeship programs, and industry safety standards. Leslie also serves on multiple community boards, including the Governor’s Workforce Development Board, the Clark County Planning Commission, and the Governor’s Regional Transmission Coordination Task Force Advisory Board.
Outside of work, Leslie enjoys watching sports, cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Boston Bruins, and Las Vegas Aces, and attending NASCAR and NHRA races. She dedicates much of her free time to community engagement and mentorship, believing strongly in giving back. When asked about advice for young professionals, she encourages them to never give up, strive to be the best version of themselves, and not let others steal their peace.
Leslie also highlights upcoming workforce events, such as the Junior Achievement Inspire Event at UNLV (Feb 19-20) and NCA/AGC Career Day (Feb 28), which provide hands-on opportunities for students and young professionals. She leaves listeners with two powerful quotes that reflect her dedication to growth and service: "Success must include two things: the development of an individual to his utmost potential and a contribution of some kind to the world" (Eleanor Roosevelt) and "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive—with passion, compassion, humor, and style" (Maya Angelou). These words perfectly capture Leslie’s journey and commitment to building a stronger workforce and community.
Las Vegas Power Professionals:
Las Vegas Power Professionals – Leading the Electrical Construction Industry
Upcoming Events & Initiatives
- Junior Achievement Inspire Event – February 19-20 at UNLV
JA Inspire Nevada | Junior Achievement of Southern Nevada - NCA/AGC Career Day – February 28
Construction Career Day 2024-2025 - Union Apprenticeship Programs – Showcasing hands-on opportunities for young professionals
