Justin Gold
Local Union 767 – Glazier

For Justin Gold, a proud member of District Council 16, joining the trades wasn’t just a career decision—it was a way of honoring a legacy.

“My father was a tradesman, and I wanted to have a life that would mean something like his,” Justin shares. Watching his father build a meaningful life through skilled labor inspired him to pursue a path where his work would have real impact—both for himself and his community.

His first job set the tone. “Sac State was my first job, and it shaped what the rest of my career was going to look like.” That early experience laid the foundation for his professional values: precision, accountability, and pride in craftsmanship.

Justin takes great pride in his ability to solve problems on the job. “Being able to identify issues and solve them efficiently with the tools at hand is something I value,” he says. Over time, he’s built a deep knowledge of tools and techniques—not only those that help him excel on the job, but those that carry over into everyday life.

But for Justin, the union means more than just skills and job security—it means solidarity. “The assurance that what I work for is protected by the union—that I don’t have to worry when something happens because my brothers and sisters have my back—that’s everything.”

His story is one of purpose, pride, and the power of union brotherhood. For Justin Gold, being part of District Council 16 is more than a job—it’s a life built on values that last.

Shanice “Shine” Crenshaw
Local 913 – Painter

Shanice, a proud member of Local 913, lives in San Francisco and joined the Union in 2022. Sponsored by California Drywall, she has been building her career with them ever since. During her time there, she was introduced to wallcovering—a specialized skill within painting that adds valuable versatility to her trade. Shanice is a rising star in our Union, and we’re excited to share her journey so far.

We sat down with her to learn more about what drives her and what she’s gained from her experience in the trades.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the trades?

“I wanted to get into the trades because I knew it would provide longevity as far as money. Being able to take care of my family, and even learning a new skill that I will have for the rest of my life. I can take painting with me everywhere. It’s universal!”

What has been your favorite project so far, and why?

“My favorite project so far has been working at SFO Airport because you see a whole bunch of different people. We painted the Red Line & Blue Line transit signs at every terminal. It was done working overnight. It feels good to say that I worked on something so important and that means so much to the world.”

What skills do you think are essential to be successful in your trade? What skills have you gained since joining the Union?

“I think being able to pay attention to detail is the best way to be successful in this trade, especially being a painter. Spending the extra time to go over your work and making sure you’re actually proud of it can make a big difference. Since being in the trades, I’ve gotten much better at problem solving. Mistakes happen, but being able to fix something makes the job go a whole lot smoother.”

What do you enjoy most about your trade?

“The thing I love most about painting is making art. I love colors and I love to see things pop. Seeing something you painted just feels good—knowing you made that difference to a building.”

Shanice is currently an 80% apprentice and is on track to graduate as a Journeyworker in 2027. She represents the future of our industry and reminds us all why investing in apprentices is so critical to the strength of our Union.

Keep up the great work, Shanice—we’re proud to have you in the family.

One Union. One Family. One Fight.

Jade Bui
Local Union 741-Drywall Finisher

Joining the Drywall Apprenticeship program was more that just a career move—it was the pursuit of a passion and a commitment to breaking barriers in the trades.

“I’ve always had a passion for building things and working with my hands,” Jade shares. But beyond that, she had a deeper motivation: “I wanted to be the difference and be another woman to get into the trades.” In an industry where women are still underrepresented, Jade is forging her own path—and inspiring others along the way.

One of her favorite projects so far has been working at the Contra Costa jail house, where she’s been caulking and fire taping rooms. “It’s hands-on, challenging work, but there’s a lot of pride that comes with knowing the job you’re doing matters.”

In the drywall trade, precision is everything, and Jade thrives on the details. “I think being very detail-oriented is most crucial for success while doing drywall,” she explains. And it shows—she’s developed strong skills in mudding, taping, cutting, and texturing techniques that continue to set her apart.

“Honestly, I love everything about my job,” she says. “From mudding and taping to caulking and installation, every task brings a new opportunity to grow and improve.” But it’s not just the work that keeps her motivated—it’s the union that stands behind her. “One thing I enjoy about being part of a union is always having security, support, and knowing that the union has my back.”

Jade Bui is proving that there’s no limit to what you can achieve when passion meets purpose—and that the future of the trades is stronger when it includes everyone.

Edgar Lopez
Local Union 12 – Floor Coverer

Becoming a skilled floor coverer wasn’t just about finding a job—it was about continuing a family legacy and building a future of his own.

“Seeing my dad and uncle in the floor covering trade with Hoem & Associates motivated me to join the trade,” Edgar shares. From a young age, he witnessed firsthand the success that hard work and dedication could bring. “I saw how successful I could be if I worked hard to provide for my family.” That vision set him on a path of purpose.

Today, Edgar is living out that potential—and thriving. His recipe for success is simple but powerful: “Working hard and paying attention to details is key to success in the floor covering trade—or really, in any trade.” It’s that mindset that has earned him recognition and pride in his work.

One of Edgar’s favorite parts of the job is the ability to see a project through from start to finish. “I really enjoy seeing the beginning to the end of each project. I feel pride and joy knowing I’ve done top-of-the-line work.” For Edgar, the satisfaction doesn’t just come from laying floors—it comes from knowing he’s delivering quality that stands the test of time.

His dedication and skill were showcased on a national stage when he competed in the International Surfaces Event—and took home first place in the floor covering contest. It was a moment that confirmed what his work already proved: Edgar Lopez is among the best in the trade.

With family roots, a strong work ethic, and union pride, Edgar represents the best of what District Council 16 stands for—High Performance / High Value.