Oregon Building Trades Council celebrated it’s 75th anniversary at the Portland Convention Center on August 20-21.  They are the second oldest building trades council in the US, representing about 25,000 construction workers in 30 affiliated local unions and district councils, and 6 regional councils. They celebrated their history with a book (pictured right) that depicts the leaders and activities over the decades, including construction projects Building Trades members have built such as the Tilicum Crossing bridge and the tram at OHSU.

Their annual meeting began with updates on workers compensation, health care and safety issues. Shown below is their meeting (on right) and the vendors (left) providing information and services.

The signature event was the celebration dinner on Friday evening where Council Executive Secretary John Mohlis (pictured at the podium, below) led the presenters with his stirring endorsement of the value of the Council through its best-in-class training programs that have provided highly skilled workers in the many construction trades over the years.  Over $50M has been invested by industry and labor in Oregon’s joint apprenticeship training programs that train the construction workers.

Oregon Governor Kate Brown (pictured at the podium, below) led the after-dinner presentations focusing on the many accomplishments of the program.  She particularly featured Oregon Tradeswomen Executive Director Connie Ashbrook and their recent award that will expand their program for women.