I didn’t take a traditional path into the trades. My background was in restaurant management, and I came from a family that worked in non-union residential flooring. Becoming a union floor coverer – especially in my 30s – wasn’t part of my original plan. But as a parent, I needed more stability, better hours and a long-term future. That’s when I made the decision to join the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT). I didn’t just find a job, I found a career. 

Today, I’m a journey-level floor installer with IUPAT District Council 5, Local 1236 in Portland, Oregon. I serve on the District Council Trustee Board, my Local’s Executive Board and was elected to be a delegate to the 2024 IUPAT General Convention. Looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m proof that it’s never too late to build something better for yourself, especially when you have the support of a strong union. 

Finding My Way into the Trade and the Union 

Before joining the IUPAT, I didn't have much experience with commercial flooring. My family worked primarily in residential, and while I saw the value of hands-on work, I didn’t see a clear path to advancement. That changed when I joined the IUPAT’s apprenticeship program.  

From the start, I was introduced to a structured, supportive training system that focused on both skill development and long-term growth. The apprenticeship was a turning point for me. I completed the program in three years, and even now, I continue to take additional training through my union. It’s one of the best parts of being an IUPAT member; you never stop learning, and the union is there to support your progress every step of the way. 

Learning by Doing 

Most of what I’ve learned came through hands-on experience. From day one, I had journeypersons mentoring me and guiding me through every challenge. I’ll never forget one of my earliest projects – just two weeks into my apprenticeship. I was working on a hospital installation. It was complex and high stakes, but instead of being intimidated, I saw it as an opportunity to grow. That project gave me the confidence I needed to keep pushing forward.  

Since then, I’ve worked on some incredible projects, like the Nike headquarters, Portland International Airport, Portland Trail Blazers’ training facility and Google offices. Each of these jobs helped me sharpen my skills and build a reputation for reliability and leadership – something I take great pride in. 

More Than Just Work 

 Being part of the IUPAT has offered me more than steady work; it’s given me purpose and a role in something bigger than myself. I’ve had the chance to mentor apprentices, speak at career fairs, and serve in leadership positions within my Local and beyond – a possibility I never imagined when I started this journey.  

Despite everything I have achieved, I still see myself as a student of the trade. I’m always looking for ways to improve and help others succeed. This mindset of staying humble and lifting others up is something the IUPAT values deeply. It’s truly all about One Union, One Family, One Fight. Our union’s strength comes from its members, and I take that to heart. 

Image courtesy of IUPAT

What’s Ahead 

Right now, I’m leading major flooring projects in downtown Portland, and I see that as the next chapter of my journey. I plan to stay active in both the field and union leadership. I want to continue mentoring, organizing, and doing my part to build the future of this trade.  

 There’s still plenty I want to accomplish – certifications to earn, projects to lead, and young workers to support. For me, success isn’t just personal; it’s collective. I want to help strengthen our union and leave the floor covering industry better than I found it.

My Advice to Anyone Considering This Path 

If you’re thinking about getting into the floor covering trade or entering a union apprenticeship, my message is simple: be ready to work hard, stay open to learning, and lean on the support around you. It won’t always be easy, but the opportunities are real, and the rewards are worth it.  

I’m living proof that it’s never too late to start over. With our union and its members by your side, there’s no limit on how far you can go.