Glenn Marek of the NYS Laborers Union spoke to THS Seniors on Tuesday, January 14, about careers in the trades.
What sets an individual up for a successful career in the trades? Work hard, show up on time, and get along with your colleagues and supervisors.
This practical advice, which applies to careers in any field, was just one of the key messages Glenn Marek, NYS Laborers’ LECET Representative, shared with Troy High School seniors during a recent visit. Marek spoke with a group of 12th graders interested in a career in the trades, offering a glimpse into the opportunities and rewards of careers like his.
Marek emphasized that local opportunities in the trades are plentiful, including laborers, electricians, plumbers and steamfitters, bricklayers, carpenters, roofers and waterproofers and more. He highlighted the many advantages these careers offer, including competitive pay, retirement benefits, and paid training programs.
While Marek acknowledged the challenges of the industry, such as layoffs in weather-dependent fields, he reassured students with a simple principle: “Good people work.” He explained that those who are hardworking, eager to learn, and easy to collaborate with will always be in demand.
One of the standout benefits Marek discussed was the opportunity to “earn while you learn” through apprenticeship programs offered by local construction and building trades organizations. These programs provide hands-on experience and specialized training, equipping participants with the skills needed to launch successful careers in a variety of fields.
Marek’s visit left students with a clear message: the trades are not just jobs—they’re pathways to lifelong careers filled with growth and opportunity.
For more information about careers in these industries, visit https://www.laborers190.org/ or https://capitalregionbuildingtrades.org/.