Congratulations Armando Mata

Brothers and Sisters,

I want to take a moment to congratulate Armando Mata, a proud member of Local 487, who successfully completed the Industrial Painting Apprenticeship program in 2024. Brother Mata was recently honored at this year’s Apprenticeship Graduation as the 2024 Industrial Painting Apprentice of the Year.

What makes this achievement even more impressive is that Armando has been working with FD Thomas on the Golden Gate Bridge for the past few years, and he has now stepped up to become a foreman with the company. This is a huge accomplishment, and a testament to his hard work, dedication, and skill. If you see Brother Mata around, I encourage you to take a moment to congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.

Additionally, I want to extend my congratulations to all the painters and drywall finishers who were celebrated at this year’s graduation. Your commitment to your craft and your continued success are inspiring. Keep up the outstanding work!

Thank you, and let’s continue to support one another in our journey toward excellence.

Training Reminder
Don’t forget to stay on top of your training. The STAR Calendar for upcoming classes through the end of the year is now available on the website. You can check out the schedule for upcoming training sessions at www.dc16star.org.

For Industrial Painting Journey workers, it is required to have a minimum OSHA 10 and Scaffold training certifications in order to be dispatched, so please make sure your certifications are up to date.

Starting next year, Industrial Painters will also need to have valid Fall Protection, Booms and Lifts, and Harassment Training in order to be eligible for dispatch. You have plenty of time, so take advantage of the opportunity to get ahead and complete the required courses as soon as possible.

For Commercial Painters, the training requirements for dispatch are the opposite this year: you are required to have Fall Protection, Booms and Lifts, and Harassment Training to be dispatched. Next year, OSHA 10 and Scaffold training will be the minimum requirement.

Our monthly union meetings take place on the second Monday of every month at 5:30 PM. Your presence is crucial in staying informed about what’s happening within our union and how it impacts your work and rights. These meetings provide updates on new contracts, ongoing negotiations, safety standards, and any changes that affect you directly.

By attending, you’re not just learning about what’s going on — you’re actively contributing to our collective voice and ensuring that our union remains strong and united. We strongly encourage you to make the effort to attend these meetings. Together, we are stronger.

Your involvement matters!

In Solidarity, 

William Gonzalez

District Council 16

Regional Director