Joseph’s journey into the skilled trades may have started unexpectedly, but it quickly became a career built on hard work, growth, and opportunity. As a member of LiUNA Local 837 for the past two years, he has gained valuable experience on the job while building a strong foundation for his future.
In this member spotlight, Joseph shares how union membership has provided stability, support, and peace of mind — and why hard work and dedication are key for anyone just starting out in the trades.
How did you become a labourer?
I started my career as a labourer a while back. I sort of fell into it and now it has become my profession.
What difference has it made in your life?
You really do learn a lot on the job. One of the most important things that you learn is that you learn how to work for what you earn. This has taught me the value of hard work.
How long have you been a member?
I have been a member for two years now
What inspired you to join Local 837?
There are a lot of benefits for joining, primarily that you have someone to find a job for you, which can be very beneficial these days. Also, the pension fund is a big reason for my joining the union
What does the pension plan mean for your peace of mind in retirement?
I came from a place that didn’t have a pension so just knowing that there was money put away for me from working everyday it makes it easy for me to go home at night and gives me peace of mind.
What are you looking forward to in retirement?
Hopefully not working too much, I am looking forward to spending even more time with family and vacationing.
Why do you think it is important to be part of a union?
Honestly having a support team like we have with Local 837 is amazing. Someone is always there, they are a simple call away and if there is a problem they are always there to help. Their benefits and pension plan are also very helpful in life
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the trades?
I would tell them just to work your hardest it’s a 50/50 deal, the union is going to help find you a job but it is up to you to keep that job. So hard work will go a long way
How has local 837 impacted your community?
They are very giving, they host great Christmas party that I like to bring my daughter too and lots of things available to members like tickets to sports games and they also sponsored our local hockey area, there is a lot of great things they have done and continue to do.
