Member Highlight: Haley Powers

For Haley Powers (Local 231 – Pewaukee, WI), her path to becoming a union carpenter began in high school, when she enrolled in the Launch program at Watoosa East High School. The Launch program gives students the opportunity to explore different trades and potential career paths after graduation. At first, Haley was unsure of what direction she wanted to take, but by the time she completed the program, she not only knew she wanted to pursue a career in the construction industry she had also built valuable connections that helped her get started.

“The best part of my Launch experience was meeting and interacting with individuals actively working on job sites,” Haley said. “It gave me the chance to ask a lot of questions and get real-time, real-world answers.” 

Throughout the program, her interests evolved week by week as she was introduced to new skills and projects. Of all the hands-on work, wood framing stood out as the most rewarding to her. “Watching plans come to life and transform into 3D structures right before our eyes was incredibly satisfying,” she shared. 

Haley considered other trades, but ultimately chose carpentry because of the variety it offered. “The idea of constantly changing what I was doing day-to-day fit perfectly with my always-moving personality,” she explained. 

Thanks to the connections she built through the Launch program, Haley’s path to the union was incredibly smooth. With the guidance of union business representatives and training center staff, she was able to complete her paperwork before graduating high school allowing her to begin working full time right away. 

Now an apprentice, Haley enjoys the learning mindset that comes with her role. “I’m allowed opportunities to test my knowledge and skills, while also having the space to admit when I don’t know something,” she said. “The journeymen I work with and my mentors have been great about encouraging me to ask questions and learn through the process.” 

Her current work focuses on concrete forming which can be physically demanding. As a smaller woman in the trade, Haley acknowledges the challenges of lifting heavier or awkwardly shapedobjects. Still, she views it as an opportunity rather than a setback. “There are often things I can do that larger guys can’t, like fitting into small spaces,” she noted. 

Looking ahead, Haley hopes to combine her passion for carpentry with her love of teaching. Having taught karate for over eight years, she sees herself one day mentoring apprentices or even stepping into a foreman role. 

When speaking with high school students, Haley emphasizes the stability and security that come with a union career. “A lot of people my age feel uncertain about the economy,” she said. “But at twenty years old, I’m living on my own, I’ve fully paid off my truck, and I have great benefits. Being able to provide for myself at this age is something I’m very proud of.”