Member of the Month – Christopher Vincent

Christopher Vincent

July 2025 Member of the Month

Painters & Allied Trades Local Union 159 – Las Vegas

Local 159 is proud to recognize Christopher Vincent as our Member of the Month for July 2025 — a hard-working, driven, and community-focused union brother who exemplifies what it means to live the values of our trade.

Chris’s union journey began with a simple conversation that changed his life. While working as a laborer on the AGC Treasure Island project, he noticed the painters on the job were doing similar work — but earning twice as much. After expressing interest, several union painters encouraged him to join the apprenticeship. He jumped in, knowing no one, and made a commitment to let his work ethic speak for itself. And it did.

Chris began his apprenticeship as an industrial painter with Olson Precast, where leadership immediately saw potential in him. Olson even sponsored him for a NACE course — a rare opportunity for a new apprentice — because they believed in his talent and dedication. Though industrial painting wasn’t his passion, Chris valued the experience and used it as a stepping stone toward becoming a well-rounded professional when he later transitioned into commercial painting.

Throughout his apprenticeship, Chris appreciated the strong mentorship he received from experienced journeymen like Adolf and Charlie, along with many others who stuck their necks out to teach and support him. He often reflects on how lucky he is to learn from members who have more experience than he has years on this earth — something he considers one of the greatest strengths of union brotherhood.

In 2025, Chris proudly qualified for his first STARs Picnic, a milestone that reflects his commitment to ongoing learning and personal growth. He’s taken several STARs classes, including Bazooka Training, which helped him better understand the work of other crafts within Local 159 and the skill it takes to perform at a high level. He says these classes deepened his respect for the trade as a whole and made him a better teammate and craftsman.

Beyond the jobsite, Chris has been an active and enthusiastic member of the Volunteer Committee. From building the St. Patrick’s Day float and walking in the parade to helping set up the Easter party, he’s passionate about building community and giving back. He especially enjoys events like Cowabunga Bay, where members and their families can come together, relax, and connect on a personal level.

Chris has also been a dedicated participant on the Local 159 softball team, representing our union in the Southern Nevada Building Trades Softball Tournament. Even when participation was low, Chris pushed hard to keep the team going and ensure Local 159 had a strong presence.

For Chris, the motto “High Performance, High Value” isn’t just a slogan — it’s a way of life. Whether on the job, at home as a soon-to-be husband and father, or in his community, he strives to be a little better each day. “It means going above and beyond,” he says, “pushing yourself to be perfect or better than you were yesterday.” He believes this commitment is what sets union workers apart — not just the quality of work, but the unity, support, and pride that come with it.

Reflecting on his time working non-union jobs, Chris says he never saw the same level of quality, mentorship, or community that he’s found in Local 159. “The wages and benefits are great — especially having health insurance and not having to stress about it — but the real value is the people,” he says. “The union has changed my life. It’s more than just a job. It’s a family.”

Chris is especially grateful for the recognition as July’s Member of the Month and is excited to start a new chapter in his career with an opportunity at the Nevada Test Site. Local 159 is proud to have members like Chris — individuals who are passionate, committed, and always looking to lift others up. His participation in STARs, VC, and union events shows his dedication to being a true union brother, both on and off the job.

Congratulations, Chris Vincent!

Your work ethic, character, and leadership set a shining example for all of us at Local 159. Keep striving, keep growing — and thank you for all you do.