“I was working dead-end, warehouse-type jobs before I got into the trades. I was working at a lighting company, and I’d see the electricians and was intrigued with the work. I got into an apprenticeship and started out nonunion for five years. But I got tired of the dog-eat-dog nonunion world.
“I have a brother and some friends who are in trade unions, and they encouraged me to join. I applied and got accepted, and it’s the best decision I ever made. I like the camaraderie, the morale is upbeat and positive, and people are supportive of each other. Most of all, no one cuts corners, and the craftsmanship is really clean.
“The best part about being an electrician is the feeling of accomplishment that you have when you’re on a job from start to finish. In a union shop, you know all the work is done correctly, and everything you’ve touched is good. You’re building something that’s going to be occupied by people, and you can drive by and tell everyone, ‘I built that.’
“My only regret is not joining the union sooner. My message to nonunion workers out there is that you can better yourself with the union. Don’t be scared to try something brand new and challenge yourself.”
Union participation during the pandemic continues to be challenging, and with it, we are losing our collective voice and power. At the IO Convention, most of the delegates and I caught Covid. It’s no picnic. However, as time goes on, we must adjust to it being part of our daily lives.
When members participate – whether that’s in union meetings, political activities, or community service events – we are stronger and elected leaders respect us. That comes back full circle in stronger PLAs and responsible public infrastructure projects which have a direct effect on our members’ jobs.
I firmly believe that the more we participate together, the more our union community grows. I’ve said it from day one…When we see each other as people instead of just numbers, we strengthen the most important part of being a union: our collective voice and power. I encourage all members to get involved with Local 349.
