He’s a journeyperson, delegate, and highly involved member of Local 45. But he didn’t start out that way. At 33 years old, David Mastros changed his life when he applied to become a NYC Carpenters Union apprentice. Find out how this former gym equipment worker took the ultimate leap of faith to become a member of the NYC Carpenters Union!
Can you share how you got started in the NYC Carpenters Union? You made the jump to the union in your 30s. What was the reasoning behind that?
- At the time I had been working for my uncle in gym maintenance. It was alright but I had a feeling inside of me that I could be doing more. I couldn’t explain it, but I just knew. A friend of mine was going to a job fair, and he heard about this pre-apprenticeship program, Construction Skills, and how it could help you get into the unionized trades. It sounded like just the opportunity I was looking for. I went and applied and took the test and was accepted in Construction Skills. I completed the program and went straight into the apprenticeship program at the Carpenters Training Center. It was a blessing to me. Eight years later and I’m still grateful for finding this union.
What do you like most about working as a union carpenter?
- Where do I start? I love working with my hands. I love being able to drive around the city to look at all the different projects I’ve worked on. I also really enjoy the health benefits we get as union carpenters for ourselves and our families. It’s outstanding coverage compared to other health insurances. For example, my wife has some very specific health issues. Before I was in our union, it was difficult to get her the care she needed. But now, it’s a whole different story. All her medication is covered. Anything I can think of medically for our family is taken care of and it’s all top-of-the-line medical care. I don’t think everyone fully appreciates just how lucky we are to have the benefits we get for being a part of this union.
Like anyone starting a new career, I’m sure you had to rely on the more experienced journey people around you. Was there any mentorship that played into you finding success in the union?
- Of course. I’m lucky to have had so many inspiring members guide me along the way. Both on the jobsite and in my local union, Local 45. Two members of my e-board for Local 45 that have really helped me in this union are Phil Fiorentino, and Local 45 President Joseph Reilly. They have both given me excellent advice and guidance that has really helped me in our union. And it’s like that across the board for our members. The older, more experienced brothers and sisters are always willing to help and train the next generation. I tell every apprentice I meet to just show up and be ready to work. You will be taught, and you will learn the skills that you need to succeed.
It’s great to hear that you mentor younger members on the jobsite. In your eight years in the NYCDCC, have you experienced any community in the union off the jobsite?
- Definitely. Theres tons of community. Whether its at our Local meetings or at the Softball Tournament and Family Picnic, you can definitely find your people in our union. Some of the relationships you make along the way will also help you advance in the union. For example, the people you meet and network with can help you find jobs when you’re out of work and vice versa. Or maybe your relationships and involvement will make you stand out and be considered for a position in your Local or on the jobsite. That’s what just happened to me when a delegate spot opened up for Local 45. I was involved in the union and my e-board took notice.
How did it feel being made a delegate for Local 45?
- Amazing. It felt great to be noticed and to know that my Local was trusting me by electing me to this position. I was happy to accept the opportunity to be a part of the delegate body and represent my fellow union members.
Do you encourage others to join the union?
- Yes. I’m always telling people how great the union is and why they should consider becoming a union carpenter. I think my constant conversations about how great our union is ended up being part of the reason that my daughter decided to join the union. It was a bit of a shock to both my wife and I when she said she wanted to be a union carpenter, but we were excited for her nonetheless and we can’t wait to see what she accomplishes as a member of this organization!
What piece of advice would you give to someone considering a career in our union?
- Just do it. It’s going to be hard some days. But it’s fulfilling. It’s so much more than just construction or just a job. It’s a career, and it’s a community. Look at me. I started out as an apprentice. Now I’m a delegate for Local 45. In 5 years’ time, who knows where I’ll be? Shop Steward, e-board member, etc. The opportunities are endless. You don’t know where you’ll go, what you’ll have your hands on, but that’s the fun of it. It’s part of the amazing journey that comes with being a union carpenter.
