In August, delegates from across the United Brotherhood of Carpenters convened in Vegas for the 43rd General Convention. The UBC-Canadian District was represented by 217 Delegates from various councils, including the Atlantic Canada Regional Council, the Carpenters’ Regional Council, the Conseil Régional Québécois, the National Construction Council, and the Millwrights Regional Council. The event was significant because it was the first in-person General Convention held since 2015; a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event saw General President Douglas J. McCarron and his team, including Canadian District Vice President Jason Rowe, unanimously re-elected to lead the UBC for the next five years. With no opposing nominations, the election demonstrated strong support for McCarron’s bold leadership over the past 30 years and confidence in his vision for the future.
The convention featured a variety of speakers and presentations that informed delegates about the progress achieved over the past five years. Key highlights included notable investments that strengthened the UBC’s financial position following the COVID-19 pandemic, such as:
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- The reacquisition of 101 Constitution Ave. in Washington DC, the UBC’s largest non-pension asset, valued at over $400 million and generating $26 million annually in net operating income
- The development of two hotels at the ITC, which increased program capacity and diversified revenue streams
- The creation of a union index fund in the Russell 3000, projected to generate more than $1.5 billion in additional revenue in the next 15 years
- The UBC’s assets have grown by nearly $100 million since the last convention in 2020
The UBC Canadian District was thrilled to host Canadian Night for all delegates attending from across Canada. It was inspiring to see Canadians from coast to coast come together as brothers and sisters of the UBC. There was true pride and motivation amongst all the delegates in the room, reinforcing the collective goal of making our union stronger and more unified.
The convention also featured several exhibits, including a presentation on the history of the UBC founder Peter J. McGuire and a display showcasing how members are adapting to the latest tools in emerging industries. As is the case with every convention, the 70-year-old tradition of pin trading was a popular activity, with members exchanging pins that featured designs from Locals and Councils across the USA and Canada.
The 43rd General Convention celebrated the UBC’s achievements under General President McCarron’s leadership over the past five years, reaffirming unanimous support for his continued leadership in the next five-year term.
“The Future belongs to those who built it!”
