Beaver County, PA — Brent Sopko, Council Representative for the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EASRCC) and President of Local Union 432, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Labor & Trades Award by the United Way of Beaver County. The award recognizes outstanding individuals in the labor community who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their trade, their union brothers and sisters, and the betterment of the local community.

With decades of experience in carpentry and a reputation for leadership, Brent Sopko has become a respected figure throughout Western Pennsylvania’s labor movement. As Local 432 President, he has consistently promoted apprenticeship training, workplace safety, and fair labor standards. In his role as Council Representative, Sopko has served as a strong advocate for union carpenters, helping secure work opportunities, protect workers’ rights, and create partnerships with local contractors and community organizations.

“Brent represents what labor leadership looks like: skilled, principled, and deeply rooted in community service,” said Drew Simpson, Regional Manager for EASRCC. “This award reflects not only his dedication to the craft, but his commitment to the carpenters he represents and the communities they help build.”

The United Way of Beaver County’s Labor & Trades Award is given annually to individuals whose work in the skilled trades and labor sectors supports the agency’s mission of strengthening families and uplifting communities.

“It’s been an honor and I’m incredibly proud of what our union has accomplished,” Sopko said. “But there’s still work to do. Whether it’s creating more pathways into the trades, advocating for our members, or strengthening community partnerships, I’m all in.”

About United Way of Beaver County

The United Way of Beaver County works to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities. Through partnerships with local nonprofits, schools, businesses, and organized labor, they support impactful programs that address health, education, and financial stability.

About The Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters

The Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters is a labor union that develops, trains, and empowers the hardworking men and women of the skilled construction trades. The EAS Carpenters Union has a strong presence in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Virginia, overseeing 25 local unions representing over 42,000 professional construction craftsmen and women.

For more information, visit www.eascarpenters.org.