Plumber

Union member for 33 years

How did you learn about the trades? I was an angry teenage feminist who had just gotten married. I went to my one and only National Organization for Women meeting, where I met Monica Amador. She had been hired to recruit women for the pipe trades. At the time, I was working a minimum-wage job with no benefits, while attending community college. She explained that I would not have to pay for my schooling, I would receive full benefits, and I would earn more money than I ever dreamed with hard work and perseverance.

How has the union impacted your life? My husband and I were able to save up and put a down payment on a home in San Jose. My union provided the health insurance that prevented us from losing our home to medical bills, after being diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. I am grateful every day for the skills, education, and friendships I have gained since becoming a member.

Do you have advice for prospective tradeswomen? Go for it! If you are a hard worker, like using both your brains and hands, this is a lifelong career. A sense of humor, earplugs, and choosing a positive attitude every day will take you far.

What is your favorite job? Therma gave me the opportunity to run work. I absolutely loved the challenge of keeping ahead of my crew. Getting material, tools, and answers was exhilarating. They took pride in doing their work. They faced the challenge of doing the work correctly, artistically, and as fast as possible. This teamwork fed my soul. It is now my honor and the highlight of my career to work in the position of Member Advocate for Local members and their families. This is truly a dream job to finish the last part of my career within the pipe trades.