Page 5 - NYCDCC The Carpenter, Spring/Summer 2020

A LETTER FROM OUR VICE PRESIDENT

MICHAEL CAVANAUGH

I f the past few months have Additionally, the District Council is

proven anything, it’s that
reimbursing eligible training classes
the strength and resiliency with outside accredited institutions.
of the New York City District Council
Carpenters is unparalleled. I have Unfortunately, many events had to
witnessed in our union membership be cancelled this year, including the
that extraordinary circumstances bring Apprentice Contest/Open House
out extraordinary people and deeds. and Graduation ceremonies. I want
As carpenters in New York City, we are to congratulate all the apprentices
unwavering. We get pushed down, but who recently completed their
we rise up and push back even harder. apprenticeship obligation. Because I also ask that we all keep our minds
To all our courageous members who of COVID-19, graduation was and our hearts open to each shift,
took the risks and performed work on cancelled, as well as the contest. I’d development, and advancement
projects deemed essential during the like all the recent graduates to know that our industry may go through.
COVID-19 pandemic, you have my that you are appreciated and that Union carpenters will always be
thanks and gratitude for the exemplary you are now among the most highly essential. It is up to us to make sure
work you’ve done. Thank you! trained professional carpenters in the we meet the demands of this city.
country – an accomplishment you If or when called upon during times
Now that most construction work has can be extremely proud of. You will of crisis, we as proud NYC Union
opened back up, it’s full steam ahead now be considered a skilled journey Carpenters will be ready to help our
building this city with renewed vigor person and be expected to live up to members and their communities.
while adhering to new safety standards it. You must continue to keep your
and protocols. We are calling this the skills sharp and strive to be the best And always remember,
“new normal.” Members must wear in the industry. I promise you it won’t Solidarity = Success.
face masks, gloves, eye protection, be easy, but it will be well worth it
and hard hats at all times on the job. moving throughout your career. I Fraternally,
It’s not comfortable, but we must know you will go on to do great things
all do our part prevent the spread and continue to build upon what it
of COVID-19 and keep ourselves, means to be a union carpenter.
our families, and others safe.
The pandemic has forced us as a
While our training center and the society and as a union to enact and
International Training Center may be accept changes in record time. It
running at limitied capacity, there begs the question: What does the
are still online courses you can take future hold? I see our union ready and
to ensure that you are prepared. capable of withstanding any curve balls
The COVID-19 awareness and we may be thrown. I see our union
preparedness courses are available adapting better than before in times
through the International Training of stress and uncertainty. But, most
Center in several different languages. importantly, I see a membership that
Be sure to check out Site Safety is stronger than ever. Now and in the
Training courses offered online through future, we must be ready to accept
the District Council Training Center, change. I ask that each member do
including the 30-hour OSHA, 8-hour their due diligence in keeping up with
Fall Protection, and 2-hour drug and training and certifications.
alcohol awareness.

SPRING/SUMMER 2020 | THE CARPENTER 5

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