National Apprenticeship Week 2026

ADAM RUSSELL

Vidriero

Unión Local 2001

Adam “Chop” Russell of Local 2001 didn’t find his way into the trades by accident—he fought for it. After years of being underpaid and overlooked while taking on increasing responsibility, Adam knew he wanted more: more respect, more opportunity, and a real future. He found all of that in the Glaziers union.

Now eight years into the trade, Adam takes pride in being part of something bigger than himself. From the support of his union brothers and sisters to the satisfaction of seeing a project come to life, the union gave him a path where hard work is recognized and rewarded. “As long as I show up, keep learning, and put in the work, I know I’ll continue to grow,” he shares.

One project that stands out in his career is working on the Hard Rock. Unlike the standard high-rise structures he was used to, this job challenged him in new ways and pushed his skills to another level. Today, Adam has stepped into a lead position—proof that his dedication and persistence are paying off.

For Adam, success in the trade comes down to a few key principles: stay teachable, pay attention to detail, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Above all, show up ready to work.

This National Apprenticeship Week, we recognize members like Adam who continue to build not just structures—but strong futures through the union trades.

TAYLOR WESSON

Cubiertas De Piso

Unión Local 12

Taylor Wesson of Local 12 found his path into the trades through both experience and legacy. After serving in the Air Force and exploring different career options, he knew the trades were always a strong opportunity—especially as a second-generation floor installer. Inspired by his father, James “Jimmy” Wesson, a proud Local 12 member of 39 years, Taylor chose to follow in his footsteps and build a career he could take pride in.

Now three years into the flooring trade, Taylor has already gained valuable hands-on experience and confidence in his craft. One project that stands out is his work at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford, where he and his coworkers at Future Floors installed coved Nora rubber flooring—one of the more challenging materials in the trade. As an apprentice, the experience pushed him to grow his skills and proved to him that he could take on difficult, high-level work.

Taylor credits much of his success to the discipline and work ethic he developed in the Air Force—showing up on time, being responsible, and coming prepared to work hard every day. Those values have translated seamlessly into his trade career and continue to guide him on the job.

What Taylor enjoys most is the camaraderie with his coworkers, the opportunity to work with his hands, and the ability to step back at the end of a project and see what he’s accomplished. For him, the trades offer not just a job, but a sense of purpose and pride.

This National Apprenticeship Week, we recognize members like Taylor who are carrying on strong union traditions and building futures rooted in hard work, family, and dedication.

FELIPE BELL

Vidriero

Unión Local 718

Felipe Bell’s story is one of dedication, growth, and pride in the union trades. Born and raised in San Francisco’s Bayview District, Felipe took his first step toward a career in construction through City Build, graduating from its 16th cohort. That opportunity quickly turned into a career when he was hired by Golden Gate Glass, launching his apprenticeship and setting the foundation for his future in the glazing trade.

In 2023, Felipe continued his journey with Progress Glass, where he has become a vital part of the team. As an 85% Glazier Apprentice with Local 718, Felipe brings consistency, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic to every project. For him, the most rewarding part of the job is seeing a finished installation and knowing he played a role in creating something lasting and impactful.

Beyond the jobsite, Felipe’s commitment to the Union stands out. A regular presence at Volunteer Activist Committee (VAC) events, he has earned recognition for his participation year after year. His dedication has also led to a leadership role on the Local 718 Executive Board—an achievement that reflects both his work ethic and his commitment to uplifting his Union Brothers and Sisters.

Felipe credits the trades with helping him grow not only as a worker, but as a man and a father. His journey is rooted in a desire to build a better future for his family while contributing to something larger than himself. Through hard work, discipline, and union solidarity, Felipe Bell represents the next generation of skilled tradesworkers—committed, driven, and building with purpose.

CARLOS CORONA VIRGEN

Pintor

Unión Local 567

For Carlos Corona Virgen of Local 567, choosing a career in the trades came down to opportunity. After starting on August 9, 2024, he quickly saw that the union offered a stronger path forward than traditional jobs like warehouse work—one built on skill, growth, and long-term potential.

In just a year and a half, Carlos has already found pride in his craft. His favorite project so far—a custom home on Mt. Rose Street—gave him the chance to work with detailed finishes like stained beams, showcasing the precision and artistry of the trade. It’s work that goes beyond the basics and highlights the true skill behind painting.

Carlos emphasizes that adaptability is the most important skill in the trades. No two days are the same, and being ready to take on new challenges is key. What he values most, though, is the people—working alongside others who share the same drive and commitment to delivering high-quality work. For him, that’s what makes being part of the union stand out.