Proud to Highlight our Women in Construction

LUZ TOBON GUTIERREZ

Painter

Local Union 507

Luz has always had a passion for construction. She began her career in the trades as a carpenter, but when work slowed down in 2023, she decided to explore her interest in painting. A general contractor referred her to Valdez Painting, where she was hired in August 2023 as a 55% apprentice.

Since then, Luz has advanced to an 80% apprentice. Although the carpenters invited her to return, she chose to remain a painter because she truly enjoys the work and the supportive environment. She appreciates how she is treated and values the guidance and support she receives at Local Union 507.

Today, Luz proudly serves as the Vice President of Local Union 507. She is also an active volunteer with Ayudando a Latinos a Soñar Half Moon Bay. Luz is proud and grateful to be part of Local 507 and thankful for the opportunity to build her future in the trade.

Luz siempre ha tenido pasión por la construcción. Comenzó su carrera en oficios como carpintera, pero cuando el trabajo disminuyó en 2023, decidió explorar su interés en la pintura. Un contratista general la recomendó a Valdez Painting, donde fue contratada en agosto de 2023 como aprendiz al 55%.

Desde entonces, Luz ha avanzado a aprendiz al 80%. Aunque los carpinteros la invitaron a regresar, ella decidió quedarse como pintora porque realmente disfruta del trabajo y del ambiente de apoyo. Aprecia cómo la tratan y valora la orientación y el apoyo que recibe en el Local 507.

Hoy, Luz orgullosamente se desempeña como Vicepresidenta del Local 507. También es voluntaria activa en Ayudando a Latinos a Soñar Half Moon Bay. Luz está orgullosa y agradecida de ser parte del Local 507 y de tener la oportunidad de construir su futuro en este oficio.

SARA EDWARDS

Glazier

Local Union 169

My name is Sara Edwards; I joined Glaziers Local 169 in 2019. I became a journey worker in 2025. I’m coming up on eight years in the glazing trade, specializing in high rise and commercial installations. I’m proud to be a union glazier committed to my craftsmanship, safety, and excellence! I hope to continue to help pave the way for more women in construction trades. 

At DC16, we are proud to stand alongside Sisters like Sarah who represent the strength, skill, and professionalism of our union every day. Her dedication to mastering high-rise and commercial glazing reflects the very best of our trade and the opportunities that union training provides. Sarah’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when talent meets solidarity and support. We look forward to watching her continue to grow, lead, and inspire the next generation of women in the trades.

KATHERINE GIRON MELGAR

Drywall Finisher

Local Union 83

Although Katherine has only been a member of LU 83 since October of 2025, her career as a drywall finisher has spanned over seven years.  She worked non-union during that time until she took the suggestions of her step-brother to join the Union.  Part of her reluctance to join had to do with rumors and misinformation she heard about what it meant to be in the Union.  Once she joined, she saw the benefits of memberships, from medical coverage, retirement, and being seen as an equal on jobsites.  This has given her the drive to continue her career with DC 16 and eventually run projects.  Currently, some of the types of things she enjoys the most on jobsites is to work with hand tools.  She takes pride in the detail and skill it takes to produce level 5 walls or technically challenging walls and contours.  The advice she gives any women thinking about getting into the trades and/or the union is to do it.  “Don’t be scared to join.  Don’t overthink it and just do it”. 💪

LANA SPELLMAN

Apprentice Painter

Local Union 3

This Women’s History Month and Women in Construction Week, we’re proud to highlight one of our newest DC16 Sisters, Lana Spellman 👷‍♀️

Lana made the bold move from working three years as an optometric technician to pursuing a hands-on career in the trades. After connecting with Tradeswomen Inc. and completing the North Bay Trades Introductory Program (TIP), she graduated in December 2025 and is now officially beginning her apprenticeship journey with DC16.

Her first week on the job says it all:

“The first week of work has gotten me so excited for the next 5 years of my apprenticeship and the many years to come once I journey out!”

During Women’s History Month and Women in Construction Week, we celebrate women like Lana who are stepping into the trades, building their futures, and strengthening our union every day.

Welcome to DC16, Lana — we’re proud to stand with you. 💪