Union drywall finishers, also known as tapers or finishers, are skilled professionals in the construction industry responsible for applying finishing touches to drywall installations to ensure seamless and smooth surfaces ready for painting or final treatments. These craftsmen play a vital role in achieving a polished and professional look in buildings. Apprenticeships are a common pathway for individuals seeking to become proficient union drywall finishers. These apprenticeship programs typically last between 2 to 3 years and provide hands-on training and instruction from experienced professionals in the field. One notable feature of these programs is the structured wage progression, with incremental pay increases every six months as apprentices gain more skills and experience. This system incentivizes learning and growth while ensuring fair compensation for apprentices' increasing proficiency. Throughout the apprenticeship, aspiring drywall finishers learn the necessary techniques, safety practices, and craftsmanship to excel in their trade and build a rewarding career in the construction industry.
In their day-to-day work, union drywall finishers use a range of specialized tools to achieve precision and efficiency. Common tools in their arsenal include taping knives for applying joint compound, mud pans for mixing compound, drywall trowels for spreading and smoothing compound, corner trowels for finishing corners, sanding blocks or sandpaper for smoothing joints, texture sprayers for adding decorative finishes, drywall saws or utility knives for cutting and shaping drywall, sanding poles for sanding high walls and ceilings, hawks for holding compound, and sanding sponges for detail work. By mastering the use of these tools and techniques, union drywall finishers deliver high-quality results, contributing to the successful completion of construction projects with finesse and expertise.
Jason Miller
Local Union 1178
Illinois
Transitioning from a background in cooking to the world of finishing trades, specifically drywall finishing, has been a transformative journey, especially over the past four years within the union. Embracing the collective strength and camaraderie of fellow union workers has proven to be an unexpected yet cherished benefit, surpassing previous misconceptions about limitations in growth. As both an Instructor and Trustee in the local union, the focus on supporting apprentices and fostering a thriving environment for learning and development stands out as a primary driving force for me. The advice to those unfamiliar with the trade and union echoes a resounding sentiment: making the switch to the union has been an exceedingly positive choice, debunking myths of restrictions and instead illuminating a path of opportunity and shared success.
Dakota Whipple
Local Union 1178
Illinois
Dakota previously worked in the fast food industry and at gas stations. Dakota embarked on a fulfilling journey in the union and at the time of posting this, he was as an apprentice drywall finisher in the Drywall Finishing trade. With a tenure of 3 years, Dakota advocates for taking time and ensuring precision in work from the start, emphasizing the importance of doing it right the first time. The unexpected benefits and connections made with individuals have been standout features of his experience, underscoring the value of networking and relationships within the trade. Looking ahead, Dakota envisions a future where more individuals express interest in less populated trades, demonstrating a desire for growth, diversity, and interest in these areas of work.