From Apprenticeship to Leadership: Developing Tomorrow’s Union Leaders
Across the labour movement, one of the most important responsibilities unions have is developing the next generation of leaders. For many in the skilled trades, leadership does not begin in an office, it begins on the tools, on the jobsite, and through the apprenticeship system. The path from apprentice to leadership is built through experience, accountability, and a commitment to supporting others.
Adam Buttazzoni, Business Representative for UBC Millwright Local 1425 in Sudbury, Ontario, is one example of how that path can develop over time. After completing the Millwright program at Cambrian College and working through the trade, Buttazzoni eventually stepped into a leadership role representing members across Northeastern Ontario. His experience has shaped how he approaches leadership today, particularly when it comes to working with apprentices and younger members.
One of the biggest changes he has seen is the growing engagement of apprentices who want to be involved in the union and understand how it works. Creating a supportive environment, he explained, has made a significant difference in participation and engagement among younger members.
“I try to be a familiar face and someone the apprentices can talk to. I work for them and they work for the union. When members feel supported and respected, they want to be involved and be part of the union. We’re seeing more apprentices come to meetings, ask questions, and take an interest in the future of the Local.”
Buttazzoni also emphasized that developing future leaders is not just about technical ability. Being a skilled millwright does not automatically make someone a good leader, and leadership requires professionalism, accountability, and the ability to work with people in challenging situations.
He often tells apprentices that leadership opportunities are available to anyone who shows up on time, works hard, maintains a good attitude, and is willing to learn. Technical knowledge will come with time, but attitude and reliability are what open doors to leadership opportunities within the union and the industry.
Developing leaders also requires cooperation between experienced journeymen and apprentices. Mentorship and guidance are essential to passing on knowledge, skills, and the values that strengthen the union.
Millwright Regional Council Executive Secretary-Treasurer Mark Beardsworth says leadership development is critical to the long-term strength of the organization and the industry.
“Our union was built by members who stepped up, took responsibility, and helped the next generation succeed. Leadership doesn’t happen overnight and it starts during apprenticeship, grows through experience, and continues when members decide to give back and help others succeed. That’s how we build strong locals, strong contractors, and a strong future for our industry.”
As the industry continues to grow and evolve, the future of the union will depend on apprentices and young members who are willing to get involved, take responsibility, and eventually step into leadership roles. By investing in mentorship, accountability, and member engagement today, unions are building the leaders who will guide the industry tomorrow.
About the Millwright Regional Council
The Millwright Regional Council (MRC) is composed of twelve affiliated Local Unions of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) across Canada. The UBC Millwrights are vital partners in diverse industries such as energy, automotive, aerospace, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. ubcmillwrights.ca
For media inquiries, please contact:
Andrew Bredin
Director of Communications
Millwright Regional Council
416-757-5161
abredin@ubcmillwrights.ca
