Philadelphia, PA, September 3, 2024 – The Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EAS Carpenters Union) announced today a strategic partnership with the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Local 32BJ to remove barriers for Philadelphia residents pursuing rewarding careers in the unionized maintenance and construction industries.

Through the workforce development partnership, 32BJ SEIU supports the aspirations of their members interested in careers in construction by referring them to the EAS Carpenters Union’s sponsored training programs, including the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Technical College (CTC) and the Carpenter Apprentice Ready Program (CARP). Additionally, 32BJ SEIU opens its membership to workers interested in unionized maintenance careers.

For those who do not meet the technical requirements for admission to the CTC, EAS Carpenters Union will refer interested candidates to 32BJ SEIU to pursue a career in unionized maintenance.

“Both of our organizations share a deep commitment to fairness, equity, and ensuring safe and fair working conditions for all members,” said Anthony Abrantes, Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer for the EAS Carpenters Union. “This partnership underscores the strength of our unified effort in advocating for workers’ rights and benefits, and we look forward to the positive economic impact this will have on Philadelphia’s workforce.”

This partnership aims to transform the employment landscape in the Philadelphia region by creating accessible pathways for career advancement, especially for individuals historically employed in lower-paying jobs. It is a significant step toward building a stronger, more inclusive workforce.

Gabe Morgan, the Vice President of 32BJ SEIU, said this Memorandum of Understanding is a huge win for both unions. “When organized labor comes together, the working class wins,” said Morgan. “32BJ SEIU members know how to fight and win, and we are proud to offer them the opportunity to pursue careers in the construction industry with our partners at the EAS Carpenters Union. We are also excited to assist the Carpenters Union applicants with job placement within 32BJ SEIU’s industries.”

For more information about the partnership, please contact Anthony Abrantes, aabrantes@eascarpenters.org.

About The Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters

The Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EAS Carpenters Union) 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.

About 32BJ Service Employees International Union

With more than 175,000 members in 12 states, including 20,000 in Pennsylvania alone, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property service workers union in the country. 32BJ SEIU members hail from 64 different countries and speak 28 different languages.

Media Contact
Red Thread PR on Behalf of EAS Carpenters Union
Alyssa Bauer: alyssa@redthreadpr.com