Big Decisions, Real Impact: How DC16 Is Protecting Union Work

DC16 showed up strong at two critical events shaping the future of our industry—the NABTU Legislative Conference and the California AFL-CIO Joint Legislative Conference.

At NABTU, the message was clear: “A Deal’s a Deal.” In a time of rapid change, leaders across the building trades emphasized that commitments—especially those tied to workers, jobs, and project labor agreements—must be honored. The conference highlighted the strength of our workforce pipeline, with thousands entering apprenticeship programs, and reinforced that union labor continues to deliver on its promises. Speakers made it clear that while the industry evolves, the values of accountability, fairness, and solidarity remain non-negotiable.

From the main stage, Sean McGarvey, President of North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU), emphasized the strength of today’s workforce pipeline, noting that nearly 8,000 new apprentices have entered the trades. That growth reflects a movement focused on what matters most: building opportunity, strengthening communities, and preparing for the future. As he put it, these are times of great change—but change doesn’t shake us, it reveals us. And what it reveals is a labor movement that is ready to build America’s future.

Throughout the conference, speakers reinforced the importance of keeping our word and doing things the right way. Brian Fitzpatrick, U.S. Representative (PA-1), captured it simply: deals are about character and trust. In the building trades, that’s not just talk—it’s how we operate every day on the job.

Leaders from across the country spoke to the real challenges facing working people. Elissa Slotkin, U.S. Senator (Michigan), highlighted the struggles of a shrinking middle class and the need for a clear vision of “true freedom”—the ability to support a family with one good job, access quality education, and live with stability and dignity. That vision is exactly what union work continues to fight for.

The future of work, especially with the rise of AI and advanced technology, was also front and center. Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO, challenged everyone in attendance to take the conversation home—to members, neighbors, and communities. Technology must benefit people, not replace or undermine them. The labor movement has faced uncertainty before, and each time, it has risen stronger by staying united and engaged.

From Capitol Hill, Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader of the United States, reaffirmed his commitment to protecting good-paying union jobs and standing with labor families. His message echoed what many speakers emphasized: leadership must prioritize working people, not just in words, but through action.

Other voices, like Seth Magaziner, U.S. Representative (RI-2), spoke to the legacy and future of organized labor—reminding us that unions built the middle class and will play a critical role in restoring it. Expanding apprenticeships, protecting prevailing wage laws like Davis-Bacon, and investing in infrastructure were highlighted by Mike Lawler, U.S. Representative (NY-17), who emphasized that supporting workers and ensuring good government go hand in hand.

At the California AFL-CIO Joint Legislative Conference, the focus shifted to state-level action. Under the 2026 “Wild, Wild West” theme, conversations centered on the challenges facing working people—from corporate power to emerging technology—and how unions must lead the fight for fair wages, worker protections, and strong labor laws. The conference also gave unions the opportunity to meet directly with lawmakers and advocate for policies that protect and grow union jobs.

California Labor Federation leadership, including Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher and other statewide labor leaders, emphasized the importance of legislative power and worker unity in Sacramento. Their message centered on the strength of organized labor as a collective voice for working people, especially in a rapidly changing economy. They highlighted that unions remain the key counterbalance to growing “Big Tech and billionaire influence,” and reinforced top priorities such as protecting workers in the age of AI, strengthening wages, and securing long-term job protections through strong labor policy.

State legislators, including Assemblymembers and Senators who work closely with labor committees and pro-worker initiatives, also played a key role in the conference discussions. Their remarks focused on advancing legislation that addresses the future of work, particularly around AI regulation and ensuring workers are protected as technology evolves. They also emphasized the importance of expanding apprenticeship programs and workforce development opportunities, along with continued investment in housing, infrastructure, and prevailing wage enforcement to support stable, high-quality union jobs across California.

The decisions discussed at both conferences don’t stay in meeting rooms—they directly impact DC16 members on the job. From legislation that determines funding for infrastructure projects to agreements that secure union labor on job sites, these outcomes influence how much work is available, how many hours our members can count on, and the standards we work under. Simply put, what happens at these conferences helps shape paychecks, job opportunities, and long-term stability for our membership.

DC16 was there because these conversations directly impact our members. From national workforce development to state legislation, being present ensures our voice is heard where decisions are made. These conferences aren’t just events—they are where strategies are built, relationships are strengthened, and the future of our union is shaped.

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