Rosemary Foutts was working as a maintenance supervisor for a property management company. Unable to afford medical benefits to cover her family and dissatisfied with the gender pay gap in her profession, she began researching a more suitable career path. She reached out to Oregon Tradeswomen, who assessed her experience, and referred her to the Carpenter’s Union and thus began her journey as a dedicated Union Carpenter.
Now a fifth term apprentice with Local 503, she’s found not only a valuable career, but a new way of life. Her involvement with Sisters in the Brotherhood introduced her to organized labor politics. She immediately began volunteering her time. She canvassed religiously during the 2022 election cycle supporting Tina Kotek for Governor, which landed her a face-to-face meeting with President Biden last October, and a personal invitation to Kotek’s inaugural ceremony in early 2023. She is now Chair of the Local 503 Political Action Committee.
In addition to her political commitments, she is also a Steward, and an apprentice ambassador for PNCI performing student outreach at local high schools. On top of her full-time job, and Union extracurriculars, she still makes room for fun. She recently joined the Motorcycle Association, becoming the first female member to join, making a mark with her pink 1983 Yamaha Maxim 400.
In addition to the fair and transparent wages, family medical insurance and other benefits, she found belonging in her Union.
To view her story watch the video above or Click Here.