PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Robert Weiss
I was lucky enough to attend ENR’s Award of Excellence Dinner on March 21st, and it was a distinct pleasure to meet this year’s recipient, Vicki O’Leary. A dynamic labor leader, Vicki is the Ironworker International’s General Organizer for Safety and Diversity, and she is taking an active role in ensuring that the proud tradition of union ironworking continues by recruiting the most talented people into its ranks, including women. Recognizing that women can help solve today’s skilled labor shortage in construction, she works tirelessly to draw them into the building trades and to ensure that they have a safe and supportive environment in which to work. Vicki is a pioneer, and it is quite fitting that she is an Ironworker. In my mind, no one has done more to shape the face of our great City than the Union Ironworker, and I am proud to say that my company has been associated with them for almost 100 years. With that in mind, I am particularly excited that the STA will be honoring another great Ironworker at our Annual Awards Dinner, Mr. Bob Walsh.
Currently the Business Manager of Local 40, Bob is a part of a five generation Ironworker family. First donning his belt in 1962, he rose through the ranks to become one of the City’s most respected general foremen, which ultimately led to his election to Local 40’s Executive Board. He went on to serve as Recording Secretary before assuming his present position in 2002. Like Vicki O’Leary, what makes Bob stand out is his undying commitment to his members. As a trustee of the union’s Outreach Program, he has made it his personal mission to help his fellow workers break free from the bonds of addiction and once again live healthy and productive lives. He is the true definition of a modern labor leader and truly deserving of the STA’s award. Please join me in congratulating Bob Walsh on April 11th at the Grand Hyatt in Manhattan. See you there!
Very best,
Robert Weiss
STA President