The Central Midwest Carpenters are dedicated to giving back to the communities in which we live and serve. Throughout 2025, there were many projects, volunteer opportunities, and community engagements that took place. These few examples are just some of the ways that CMRCC Members are constantly stepping up and lending a helping hand to those who need it around us.
The Central Midwest Carpenters is, in its essence, is a family. We are bound together with brotherhood and sisterhood. Some members claim a deeper connection with their fellow members – having multiple generations in the CMRCC. These quotes are from a few of them who are especially appreciative of the fact that they get to carry on the legacy of being a union carpenter with their last name.
Outreach Specialist with the Central Midwest Carpenters, Gavin Gottfried, along with three others across the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC), were given an award for the unwavering support that they have provided to the Military Veterans Program (MVP). They were presented a Flag of Valor by Executive Director of the UBC Millwright/Pile Driver Labor Management, Mark Benacquisto, at the UBC Millwright Leadership Conference held at the Carpenters’ International Training Center in Las Vegas.
In the Newburgh area, 2021 was all about growing market share and building community – something members in this area excel at. Members worked on big projects, including the Evansville Aquatic Center, St. Vincent Hospital, Deaconess Hospital, a pool at University of Southern Indiana and on a bridge over Green River.
Next year’s work forecast looks solid. Members are working on an ongoing simple cycle project at Tennessee Valley Authority, where AZCO is installing three simple cycle gas turbines. This project kicked off in October. At its peak it will have around 60 carpenters and 15 Millwrights on the project.
Members are looking forward to the Toyota/Lexus line expansion, which is set to begin in early 2022. This $840 million-dollar project will create plenty of man hours. In March, Pratt Industries Paper Mill is coming to Henderson, KY. This $340 million-dollar project will also increase man hours.
In addition to growing market share, members in Paducah are also building the community. Local 357 members are finishing work on a McCracken County Habitat for Humanity home. This is the fourth home they’ve helped build for the organization that helps families and individuals in need of decent, affordable housing achieve their dream of homeownership. Carpenters did the framing, set trusses, roof decking and will set the windows and complete the vinyl siding.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, carpenters mobilized and held a canned food drive. The food drive was so successful, they’ve decided to do it again in 2021 and are currently taking canned food and Christmas toy donations for families in need.
Jerome Stanford completed the apprenticeship program with hundreds of others from Indiana and Kentucky and were honored with a completion ceremony in December 2015. As the selected speaker to represent the graudation class, Jerome addressed the members and guests that night.