Don’t Forget!

Brothers and Sisters,

Work is picking up across the region, and we expect a strong year ahead. As a reminder, a new Out-of-Work list begins at the start of every month. If you’re currently not working, you must call in at the beginning of each month to get back on the list. We’ve unfortunately lost members who were unaware of this process and were waiting for a call from the Union. Please stay proactive!

Several new drywall and paint projects are beginning, with more scheduled throughout 2025. We also have multiple projects in the northern rural areas of the state. Our contractors are specifically looking for members willing to stay out of town, so this could be a great opportunity for those open to travel. Additionally, we’re receiving regular calls for local jobs as well.

A quick but critical reminder: we’ve had to deny dispatch requests for Journeyman Painters due to missing required certifications. To be eligible for dispatch, all journeymen must complete 16 hours of mandatory training.

Current Certification Requirements:

For Commercial Painters:

• Fall Protection
• Harassment Training
• Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) Training

For Industrial Painters:

• OSHA 10
• Scaffold Training
• Harassment Training

STAR Class Schedule Now Available – July to December 2025

The DC 16 STAR training schedule for July through December 2025 is now available!

We encourage all members to take advantage of these classes and sign up as soon as possible—especially if you still need certifications to stay eligible for dispatch. Don’t wait until the last minute. Completing your training now ensures you’re ready for the work ahead and helps avoid delays in getting out to the job site.

If the class you need is not currently offered, call the STAR Program at (510) 782-7827. Let them know which certification you need—they will add you to a waiting list, and if enough members sign up, another class will be scheduled.

Looking Ahead to 2026 – Start Preparing Now:

Commercial Painters (2026 Requirements):

• OSHA 10
• Scaffold Training

Industrial Painters (2026 Requirements):

• CAS Level 2
• Hanging Platform Training
• Mobile Elevated Work Platforms
• Fall Protection (USACE EM385)
• Ladder Safety

We strongly encourage all members to make an effort to attend our monthly Union meetings, held on the second Monday of every month at 5:30 PM.

These meetings are an important way to stay informed about local work opportunities, upcoming changes, and issues that directly affect our trade. They’re not just routine—they’re a chance to get educated, speak up, and be part of shaping the future of our Union.

While we offer raffles and other incentives to encourage attendance, the real reason to show up is this: our strength is in our unity and our knowledge.

This Union was built by the hard work and sacrifice of those who came before us—workers who fought for the rights and wages we benefit from today. Somewhere along the way, some of us have started to take that for granted. But being part of the Union is not just a benefit—it’s a responsibility.

There are workers out there doing the same job we do for a fraction of the pay and none of the protections. We owe it to ourselves—and to them—to stay engaged, stay educated, and continue fighting for dignity and fairness in our trade.

So please—COME TO A UNION MEETING.

Be present. Be informed. Be Union Strong.

In Solidarity,

William Gonzalez