Leadership

Paul Capurso is the Executive Secretary-Treasurer Pro Tem of the New York City District Council of Carpenters (NYCDCC), a position he has held since 2025 after being elected President and Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer in 2020. With over thirty years of dedicated service to the union, Paul has established himself as a prominent leader in the construction industry, committed to advocating for workers’ rights and raising standards for carpenters across New York City. He has also been influential in growing relationships with signatory union contractors and pushing critical legislation to increase market share.

Born and raised in Staten Island, Paul began his journey with the NYCDCC in 1987 at the age of 17. He quickly immersed himself in the Training Center’s programs, acquiring the skills necessary to thrive in the competitive construction landscape. Throughout his career, Paul has played a vital role in the construction of numerous iconic buildings in the tri-state area, demonstrating his expertise in various positions, from journeyman to lead carpenter, foreman, general foreman, and superintendent for an interior systems contractor.

In 1996, Paul took on the role of part-time instructor at the NYCDCC Training Center, where he began mentoring the next generation of apprentices and journeymen while continuing to excel in the field. He has since focused on leadership development and strategic direction for the Council, utilizing his extensive experience to advocate for the working-class community.

A devoted family man, Paul resides in Staten Island with his wife and two children. He is deeply committed to the values of family, community, and hard work, which have driven his career and continue to inspire his dedication to the labor movement. Paul’s vision is to foster a thriving future for all members of the NYCDCC, promoting union values and ensuring equitable opportunities for carpenters throughout the region.

In 2025, David Caraballoso was appointed the Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer and President of the New York City District Council of Carpenters (NYCDCC) after being elected as Vice President in June 2021. In this capacity, he is responsible for overseeing the District Council’s general operations and effectively negotiating on behalf of the union’s 20,000 members.

With two decades of experience in the carpentry industry, David has established a successful career characterized by his commitment to labor rights and member representation. His journey began in the non-union sector, where he worked as a general foreman before transitioning to the union as a rank-and-file member. Over 15 years in the field, he advanced through key positions, including journeyman, shop steward, and foreman. In 2016, David was elected president of Local 212, a newly established local for concrete workers, where he played a vital role in fostering leadership and developing the next generation of skilled workers.

David’s background in the non-union sector has equipped him with a unique perspective on the dangers of unsafe working conditions and unscrupulous contracting practices. This experience fuels his dedication to advocating better labor standards and ensuring the welfare of union members.

Born and raised in the Manhattan Valley neighborhood of the Upper West Side, David is proud of his rich cultural heritage as the son of Cuban and Puerto Rican parents. He utilizes his diverse background to promote inclusivity and allyship within the industry, helping union members to achieve rewarding careers while striving to level the playing field in the non-union sector.

Residing in Manhattan with his wife and three children, David remains committed to his community and the ongoing mission of the New York City Carpenters Union.

Adam Harkin, born in 1976 in Long Island, has dedicated his career to the construction industry, particularly in dock building. A proud 4th generation dock builder, Adam began his journey with the New York City District Council of Carpenters (NYCDCC) in 1995 as an apprentice. Over the years, he has developed his skills and expertise, progressing through the ranks to become a journeyman, shop steward, and foreman.

In 2006, Adam took on a leadership role as an elected delegate to the Central Labor Council for Local 1456. His commitment to labor representation continued as he was elected as the Executive Delegate for Local 1556 in 2011. Adam’s contributions to the local union were further recognized when he was elected as Trustee in 2015 and as Delegate in 2016, a position that coincided with his hiring as a Business Representative in the NYCDCC.

By 2021, Adam was elected Vice President of Local 1556 (formerly 1456), showcasing his dedication to advocacy and leadership within the union. In 2022, he was appointed Regional Manager, further expanding his influence and responsibilities within the organization. Most recently, in 2023, Adam was elected as Trustee of the NYCDCC and was appointed to an even greater role as Vice President and Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer in 2025.

With a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the labor movement, Adam Harkin continues to be a significant advocate for workers’ rights and a respected leader in the union and industry.