IUPAT District Council 7 members are Painters, Drywall Finishers, Glaziers, Trade Show Workers, Sign and Display Workers, and Paint Makers.
A typical day in the life of a DC 7 member looks different for all of our members. Our members who work in the construction industry work in the finishing trades- we make the buildings look beautiful whether glass facade to the interior finishes. Our members put the finishing touches on the project. We also have Trade Show workers who set up things like the Auto Show, Home and Garden show etc. Our paint makers are in a factory setting with 24/7 coverage.
One of the biggest issues we face is worker misclassification and payroll fraud. When workers are paid off the books it gives unscrupulous contractors a leg up and our members/contractors cannot be as competitive.
The most common misconception we face is that anyone can do our work and that there is no skill required. In actuality, our members take a 4 year apprenticeship program which gives them the tools they need to be a successful trades person.
Check back on Friday for more on the future of IUPAT DC 7.
