Member Highlight: Claire Mulcahy

Being in the trades is a family legacy for Claire Mulcahy of Local 1463 (Omaha, NE). Her uncle, a former business representative for the Carpenters Union, and many of her siblings and cousins proudly carry on the tradition across various trades.

Claire's journey as a union tradesperon started while working as a fire watcher on a millwright job where she was given the opportunity to observe the intricacies of millwright skills and machinery. Through this experience, Claire decided to redirected her focus by signing on as a union millwright apprentice.

   Claire standing outside the St. Paul Regional Council Building

Now a seasoned craftsperson, Claire thrives on working on diverse millwright projects—from setting steel, working in refineries and feed plants, to her current role at Mortenson Construction's data center. She especially enjoys scaling heights on wind jobs where she provides maintenance on energy turbines. "I like to fix what needs fixing," Claire explains, reflecting on her straightforward and succinct approach to work.

Beyond the job site, Claire finds joy in working on old cars, having recently restored a '64 Chevy Impala with skills honed from years in the trades. She is also pursuing a degree in construction management through Bellview University, set to graduate in August 2025.

No job comes without challenges. "Keep your chin up," Claire advises, thinking back on some of the trials she has faced in her own career. "People may try to tear you down, but I stay focused through the ups and downs." 

As a mother and college student, finding strength amidst job stresses is not easy, yet Claire remains steadfast in her commitment to both her family and her career in construction. She is forging her path in the construction industry with unwavering determination and resilience, a testament to her hard work and passion for the industry.