Local 359 (Arizona) sheet metal worker Leticia Bejarano worked nonunion for 10 years — her mental health suffered, and she considered quitting the industry altogether. That’s when she met the Local 359 apprenticeship coordinator. Now, as a union sheet metal worker, she not only enjoys the fruits of her labor — she works to help spread the word to others in her community. Learn more in her sister story:
What unique strengths do you bring to your trade?
I love learning and I pick up new skills very fast. I have been in the industry for a while and have been doing community outreach as well, so I love being a team leader and promoting the trade. I also enjoy pushing others to perfect their skills and learn new things
What do you love to do when you are not at work?
One of my favorite hobbies is silversmithing. I have my own business called Saguaro Blossom Jewels where I get to put this into action. I also have my own organization called Weld Her Workshop, where I teach other women how to weld. I also love going to classic car shows and doing photoshoots as a pinup model.
Goals in the future — any ambitions or changes to your career, growth or education?
I really love learning, so I would love to take some journeyman upgrade classes. I already know how to weld, so maybe service or TAB classes.
What surprised you about your trade?
What surprised me most about being an HVAC installer is how little people actually know about what sheet metal is! I find it really fun being able to explain what I do to them.
What do you find frustrating about your job/trade?
I am a petite woman, and the most frustrating thing is getting doubted by other people because of my size. I don’t work out for nothing, and I am more than capable to do the things I need to do for my job.
What’s the coolest job you’ve worked on?
My first jobsite when I joined the union was a Children’s Hospital, and I got to weld some of the grease stuff and stainless steel exhaust. Being a woman, it was cool getting that kind of recognition from the guys. I think I earned some brownie points on that one!
What traits do you think a good sheet metal worker has?
A good sheet metal worker has quality over quantity. You want to be proud of the work you install after you walk away. Being punctual is another one: It is important to show up on time to work every day, willing to learn and adapt.
Why sheet metal?
Before I joined Local 359, I was welding for 10 years doing structural manufacturing work. My mental health was so bad, so I decided to quit my job and take a few months off work to focus on myself. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to continue in the trade, but after researching different unions, sheet metal stood out to me. The apprenticeship coordinator that I connected with helped me realize that I belong in this industry and helped me join this industry. I am forever grateful because I have made great friends and learned a new skill.
Tool you can’t live without?
Impact, snips and hammer!
Best advice you got as an apprentice?
Sometimes you have to create your own opportunities.
Speak confidence into yourself.
Learn all that you can and pass it forward.
Best advice for an apprentice?
Quality over quantity. Be punctual and show up every day. Be willing to learn all that you can.
What do you think about Tradeswomen Build Nations?
Tradeswomen Build Nations is the most empowering, inspirational sisterhood event one can be involved in. I was finally able to meet women that I followed for years after being social media friends for so long. I look forward to this event every year because as we all know, construction can be mentally and emotionally draining, and this event keeps me motivated and inspired to keep going.
Are you active in trade-related activities such as career fairs, volunteer work or SMART Army events? Can you elaborate on one you participated in?
I am the organizer and social media gal for our women’s committee. Because I have my own organization teaching women how to weld, my local has me go to career days with them at different events. I get to speak to different communities about my experience as a tradeswoman, and now I get to shine light on my local.