Today, we’re proud to recognize a standout member of Local 159 — someone who exemplifies leadership, pride in craftsmanship, and The Union spirit. Please join me in congratulating Florentino Gallardo , Foreman with Anning Johnson, as April’s Member of the Month.

Florentino’s journey into the union started back in 2007, when, as an 18-year-old, he was working track houses and learning the basics of the trade. A friend, who was already a taper and Union member, introduced him to the idea of joining. At the time, Florentino was working on getting his documentation in order, which made employment opportunities more difficult. But when he had a chance to join the union, he didn’t hesitate—he knew the value of having representation, benefits, and opportunity.

 He  joined PCI in 2018, and after six months, found a long-term home with Anning Johnson, where he’s worked ever since. His dedication and talent didn’t go unnoticed — just a few years later, he was promoted to drywall finishing foreman, a role he’s proudly held for the past three years.

His first job as a foreman was a small project at the Aria. It was a good introduction — but nothing could have fully prepared him for his next assignment: a large-scale tower remodel at the Horseshoe. Managing 30 workers in the first few weeks, it was a trial by fire — but one he embraced with determination. Since then, he’s also led projects like the DMV renovation, completing it on time and under budget. Florentino takes great pride in delivering top-quality work, no matter what the scale or challenge.

What truly sets Florentino apart is not just his skill — but his commitment to mentoring the next generation. He’s worked closely with apprentices, including one young man named Kevin, who has been at his side on every project since Florentino first became a foreman. He believes in teaching, and in learning from everyone — even from apprentices — and in keeping a humble, team-oriented mindset. As he says, “Every day, you learn a little bit. We are a team.”

Florentino brings that same sense of teamwork home to his family. A proud father of four — three boys and one girl, he talks about how his kids are exploring their own paths, with one son already looking toward joining the union. Outside of work, Florentino is a huge fan of soccer, playing three days a week with his kids, taking them to school games and practice, and even joining soccer leagues  with coworkers. He’s suggested that we organize a union soccer tournament — and we might just have to make that happen!

When asked what being a union member means to him, Florentino speaks from experience. Before joining the union, he worked without insurance and even had to pay out of pocket for a medical emergency. Now, he has security — benefits, health coverage, and a steady income that allowed him to buy a home and own his vehicles outright. “I don’t like car payments,” he said, “I’d rather put my money into my house.”

Florentino believes in the union’s motto: High Performance, High Value. To him, that means being the best at what we do, producing high-quality work in high-profile places like the Paris Hotel, and doing it all as professionals — even when it means sacrificing nights at home. It’s about showing up, delivering excellence, and taking pride in representing our craft.

We’re incredibly proud of Florentino — not only for his technical leadership, but for his attitude, his mentorship, and his deep commitment to our union values. He reminds us what’s possible when talent meets determination, and when a member lifts others as they rise.Local 159 congratulates you, Florentino, and thanks you for being a true example of what it means to be a leader in the field. Your story inspires others to strive for more, and we are honored to recognize you as April’s Member of the Month.