By International Union of Painters and Allied Trades
Edgar Diaz’s path into the floor covering industry wasn’t traditional. With a background in restaurant management and a family involved in non-union residential flooring, he didn’t plan to build a career in the trades—especially not in his 30s. But when long hours and instability in the service industry no longer aligned with his goals as a parent, he made a change. That decision led him to the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) where he found not just a job, but a future.
Now a respected journey-level floor installer with IUPAT District Council 5, Local 1236 in Portland, Ore., Edgar holds positions on the District Council Trustee Board, his local Executive Board, and served as a delegate to the 2024 IUPAT General Convention. His journey is proof it’s never too late to start over; especially when you’re backed by a union committed to your success.
Discovering the Trade and the Union
Before joining the IUPAT, Edgar had limited exposure to commercial flooring. While his family has some experience working in the residential side, the path to long-term growth wasn’t clear. However, once Edgar entered the union’s apprenticeship program, he was introduced to a structured, supportive system prioritizing skill development and long-term career advancement.
That program became Edgar’s turning point. He completed it in three years and continues to leverage the IUPAT’s training courses to stay up to date. With what he learned through the apprenticeship program and these courses, Edgar has become a leader in both fieldwork and union engagement.
Learning Though Action
Much of Edgar’s learning took place on the job, supported by journeypersons who guided him from day one. One of his earliest projects—a hospital installation—came just two weeks into his apprenticeship. The complexity and responsibility of the job could have been overwhelming, but with the guidance of the other union members the project instead gave Edgar confidence and a deeper understanding of what the trade demanded.
Over the years, Edgar has worked on a wide range of high-profile projects, including installations at Nike headquarters, Portland International Airport, the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers training facilities and Google’s offices. These opportunities, supported by union training and strong mentorship, helped Edgar build a reputation for reliability and leadership on the jobsite.
Support That Extends Beyond the Worksite
Being part of the IUPAT has meant more than access to jobs; it’s given Edgar a role within the union. He began by mentoring apprentices, attending career fairs to promote the trades, and serving leadership roles on local and national boards. Recently, he was offered a career path into the union as part of its staff.
Despite his increased leadership responsibilities and growing experience, Edgar remains humble about his career growth. He continues to see himself as a learner first and foremost, seeking opportunities to grow and help others do the same. His dedication to staying involved and lifting up fellow members reflects a core IUPAT value: The strength of the union lies in its members.
Looking to the Future
In the years ahead, Edgar plans to remain active in the field and union leadership. He currently leads major flooring projects in downtown Portland and sees this as the next step in a career that continues to evolve. Whether through mentoring, organizing or simply leading by example on the jobsite, he’s committed to giving back.
Edgar still has goals on the horizon—certifications to earn, projects to complete and young tradespeople to guide. His long-term vision includes not just personal success; he also wants to strengthen the union and floor covering industry as a whole, now and into the future.
Advice for the Next Generation
For those considering the floor covering trade or union apprenticeship, Edgar’s story offers a clear message: hard work, a willingness to learn and the support of a strong union can lead to a fulfilling career. While the work isn’t easy, the opportunities are real for those who are committed. Edgar is living proof it’s never too late to start again; and with the IUPAT behind you, the path forward is wide open.
