News

Nilson Goncalves is a Local 327 member and journeyman carpenter in Boston, currently working for Sweeney Drywall. He is also a dedicated North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund (NASCTF) instructor, where he trains and mentors upcoming carpenters. Goncalves served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve and attained the rank of Sergeant (E-5). He shares his insight and journey to becoming a union carpenter.

Inspiration to join the Carpenters union

Before joining the union, I owned and operated a residential remodeling company for approximately 15 years. A chance meeting with Decio Santos changed the direction of my career. We started talking about construction and my background in residential remodeling. Decio introduced me to the Carpenters union and told me he thought I would be a great fit. He explained the opportunities available through training, benefits, and career advancement. Looking back, he was absolutely right. I’m grateful for that conversation because it opened a door that has had a tremendous impact on my life and career. 

Difference since joining the union

The biggest difference I see in myself since joining the union is a new sense of freedom to chase my dreams and a renewed hunger for success.

The union didn’t just provide me with a career—it surrounded me with people who genuinely wanted to see me succeed. Leaders and mentors like Eric Martinez, Decio Santos, Ziven Drake, and many others encouraged me to think bigger, set higher goals, and pursue opportunities that I may not have considered before.

Their mentorship and support helped give me the confidence to become an instructor, develop a financial literacy program for union members, and work toward making a larger impact both inside and outside of our organization.

The union has shown me that when people invest in you and believe in your potential, it inspires you to do the same for others. Today, one of my goals is to help the next generation of members chase their own dreams and realize what is possible through hard work, education, and mentorship.

The best part about being a carpenter

Being a carpenter is in my blood. My family goes back multiple generations in the trade, so in many ways I feel like I was born to do this. I can honestly say I love what I do. Every project is an opportunity to create something unique that will serve people for generations.

What gives me the greatest satisfaction is standing back and looking at something I built with my own hands. For me, carpentry isn’t just a career—it’s a craft, a passion, and a legacy.

Favorite things about being in the union

What I like most is the sense of brotherhood, professionalism, and opportunity. As a Marine Corps veteran, I immediately recognized many similarities between the military and the union. Both organizations emphasize teamwork, discipline, accountability, leadership, and looking out for one another.

That structure made the transition feel natural to me. The union gave me a sense of belonging, similar to what I experienced in the military, while also providing outstanding training, wages, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

Advice for a young person considering a future in our trade

I believe young people should consider joining the union because it’s more than just a job—it’s a true career and a lifelong brotherhood and sisterhood. The union gives you structure, accountability, guidance, and a real sense of community. You’re surrounded by people who want to see you succeed and are willing to help you along the way.

The skills and training you receive can never be taken away from you. No matter where life takes you, the craftsmanship, leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, and work ethic you develop will always belong to you. In a world where people worry about automation, artificial intelligence, and constant changes in technology, skilled trades remain essential.

The opportunities within the union are endless. You can become a foreman, superintendent, instructor, organizer, business owner, or leader within the organization. The path is different for everyone, but the opportunities are there for those willing to work hard and continue learning. Most importantly, the union gives you a place to belong. It’s a community of people who look out for one another, celebrate each other’s successes, and help each other through challenges.

Things that young people should know about our union

Young people should know that the Carpenters Union is much more than a job—it’s a career, a community, and a support system. The union invests heavily in its members through world-class training, continuing education, strong wages, healthcare, retirement benefits, and opportunities for advancement. If you’re willing to put in the work, the opportunities are there.

For me, the union provided a pathway from Marine Corps sergeant, business owner, and residential contractor to journeyman carpenter, instructor, mentor, homeowner, and financial literacy advocate. It gave me the confidence and support to dream bigger and pursue goals beyond what I originally imagined for myself.

The skills, training, relationships, and experiences you gain through the union stay with you for life. The buildings you help create may stand for generations, but the lessons, leadership, and sense of belonging you gain along the way can shape the rest of your future.

Screenshot