Veteran Spotlights 2025

SHANE ALLEN

Local Union 567 – Drywall Finisher

U.S. Marine Corps

I proudly served six years in the United States Marine Corps. My experience was both challenging and joy-filled — it gave me the strength and discipline I was looking for. I loved every moment of those six years, spending the first half as a networker and the second half as a Marine Corps recruiter.

As I transitioned out of the Corps, a good friend told me about the benefits and pay of joining the union. I had zero trade experience, but I was ready for something new — something where I could work with my hands and continue learning. It turned out to be exactly what I was looking for.

My experience so far has been great. Everyone I work with is awesome, and my favorite part is being able to say, “I helped build that.” The work is meaningful, and I’d highly recommend this path to any veteran looking for a rewarding career.

My military background has influenced my values as a trades person by giving me the work ethic necessary to get the job done and done right! I’m currently on my first project, so I can’t pick a favorite yet, but I’m excited for what’s ahead. To other veterans considering the trades: it’s worth it. You’ll find the same sense of purpose and growth here as you did in the service.

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CHARLES MARX

Local Union 487 – Painter

U.S. Army

I come from a long line of soldiers. The earliest record in my family goes back to Colonel Jeffrey Lowe of Virginia, who served in the militia in the 1700s. My grandfather served in World War II and the Korean War, and my father was a Vietnam veteran—so service has always been in my blood.

I joined the U.S. Army in 2002 and proudly served until October 2005, completing my term with honor and distinction.

After my military service, I continued to serve in a different way—through my work as a painter. I started in the private sector, eventually earning my contractor’s license, but soon realized that running a business wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. In May of this year, I joined the Painters Union, and I haven’t looked back since.

Today, I’m a proud member of the team at James L. Harris Painting in Auburn, CA. The work is rewarding, and the balance allows me to stay connected with my family and my Native spiritual community. I also serve on the board of the Families Matter Foundation, a nonprofit focused on providing recovery resources and networking for those in need.

To any veteran thinking about joining the union, I say this: it’s one of the best transitions you can make into civilian life. At my first union meeting, I was overwhelmed by how much focus there was on giving back to the community. Being sworn in was much like taking the military oath—the parallels in brotherhood are astounding.

The training I received in the military directly supports my growth in the union—especially in critical thinking and leadership. My long-term goal is to become an instructor, to train and prepare the next generation of painters and help shape the future of our industry.

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RUBEN SALINAS

Local Union 1512 – Floor Coverer

U.S. Army

After graduating high school in 2015, I made the decision to join the U.S. Army, recognizing the military as a strong foundation for building my professional life. I served as a Motor Transport Operator with the 593rd Transportation Company in the Nevada Army National Guard for seven years.

During my service, I was fortunate to play a key role in critical COVID-19 response missions. As part of a strike team, I helped deliver vaccines and testing supplies to communities throughout Las Vegas and the surrounding areas. That experience was incredibly rewarding—it strengthened my discipline, resilience, and commitment to service, values that continue to shape my approach to work and life today.

After leaving the military, I entered the flooring industry. A few years in, I realized I didn’t just want a job—I wanted a career. I wanted to learn everything I could and grow within the trade. That’s when I decided to join the Union as an apprentice in August.

Before joining, I did my homework—researching on the DC16 website—and I knew immediately that this was where I belonged. Since then, I’ve met an incredible group of supportive coworkers and

mentors, including foremen who’ve guided me along the way.

My military background helped me every single day on the trades. It taught me to always give 100% and never quit, no matter how tough the job gets. What I love most about being a floor coverer is knowing our work is the final touch—the moment when everything in a project comes together for a flawless finish.

The Union has provided me with incredible resources and opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. Honestly, I can’t imagine being anywhere else.

In my free time, I make it a priority to stay connected with family and friends, and I occasionally get out on the field to play soccer for fun and exercise.