NYCDCC Local 926 Apprentice Richard Solis comes from a family of carpenters from Nicaragua, so it would seem natural that he would follow in their footsteps. But originally, Solis was drawn to architecture. However, in high school he began building things, and, as he told LaborPress, it was then that he realized being a carpenter was his calling. Now in his fourth year as an apprentice, Solis shared with us some of what he has experienced in his union, in his training, and on the job.
LP: Tell us a bit about your Local.
RS: I’m a member of the United Brotherhood Carpenters Local Union 926, located in Brooklyn. We have our monthly meetings in Brooklyn as well, where we discuss the matters concerning our work in today’s industry. This is also a place to gather information about different jobs and also meet new people to open any possible opportunities for employment.
LP: How did you get interested in the trade?
RS: I come from a family of carpenters from Nicaragua. I always had an interest in building things with my hands, and the union has given me an opportunity to expand my knowledge in that aspect.
LP: Did you have other careers in mind?
RS: As I was growing up, I had interest in becoming an architect. But once I began building things in the course of my high school years, I realized becoming a carpenter was my calling.
LP: Any union members in your family?
RS: Unfortunately no; I am the first one in my family to join the union. However, a couple of my family members have already taken the first step into joining the United Brotherhood of Carpenters.
LP: What year apprentice are you?
RS: I am currently a 4th year apprentice with a set graduation date of June 16th, 2023.
LP: What skills have you learned in the program?
RS: During my time in the program, I have become knowledgeable about a variety of materials being used in today’s industry. I have also acquired the skill to identify all of the safety hazards that come with the trade of carpentry.
LP: What was your experience in the training program?
RS: I have had the pleasure to meet a wonderful group of teachers who have taught me different ways to approach any situation in a real working environment. I was also able to explore the different skill sets that these members have obtained in their previous jobs in the field.
LP: Did it prepare you for the jobs you have been on?
RS: Certainly. And because of all the knowledge provided in the many classes required to complete the apprenticeship, I was able to be well informed and prepared to tackle any obstacle in my way.
LP: What part of your trade do you like the most?
RS: Honestly, I enjoy every aspect of my job. I can say carpentry is what I am meant to do, and being able to work in a safe environment while earning an honest living has been a blessing to my life.
LP: Why do you think you were selected as Outstanding Apprentice of the Year?
RS: I believe that my hard work and dedication to the program has had the biggest impact into the decision-making for this award. The road has been a rocky one – having impacts such as COVID-19 did make the journey a bit longer. But overall I never stopped learning new skill sets to better my craft or making new friendships that open doors to a greater opportunity.
LP: What does being in a union mean to you?
RS: Being a part of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters has given me the tools to better my life, and that of others around me. It gave me the chance to perform my trade in a safe environment, where I have learnt the proper skills to advance my position in life. It also provides medical help and many benefits for members and their families, who have been misinformed about the conditions we carpenters should be working under. Being in a union, to me, means that you don’t fight alone.
