Cement Mason – Seattle, Local 528
After working for 12 years at different retail jobs, my good friend asked me if I’d like to come work for them at their small business. I didn’t really know what her husband did for a living but I was adamant about changing professions. In 1995, I started my Apprenticeship making more than I had been making in retail. As my wages increased, I became financially independent and was able to raise my 2 children on my own terms. After being a Union member for about 6 years, I decided that I was going to attend my union meetings on a regular basis. Within 6 months, the Business Manager was having me fill in for the Recording Secretary and I was eventually appointed to the position. I have held the position for 17 years, running unopposed for each term. Holding this position helped prepare me for my interview for my current Business Agent position.
In the field, I spent the last 13 years at the Conco Company and was a Foreman there for the last 10. I have been the President of my HOA for the last 13 years, and active on that Board for 17 years. My daughter is a Journeyman Cement Mason and my son is a vertical Foreman Carpenter.
I am passionate about introducing our craft and this opportunity to young people, particularly women. I actively solicit women coming out of incarceration and I participate in the trade shows that are targeted toward women. I was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017 by the Washington Women in Trades organization. (I am clearly much too young for such an award!!)
Helping to create a space for women at the International level would be a satisfying career achievement!
