Become A Member
Choose your path to join Wisconsin and Michigan’s
most powerful voice in the finishing trades.
Our Mission
To better the lives of each and every member by being the strongest, most powerful voice in the industries we represent.
One Union
Our strength is forged through unity by every member working together, regardless of individual trades, throughout North America.
One Family
We stand together as one. We support, care for, and respect each other in our union halls, on and off the job sites, each and every day.
One Fight
We fight together for stronger contracts — safer job sites, industry-leading pay, and democracy at work for every worker in our crafts.
Representing nearly 2,000 skilled tradespeople across Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula since 2003. Our members deliver unmatched craftsmanship in painting, drywall finishing, glazing, and allied trades. Join the strongest voice in the finishing trades industry.
Our Five Essential Building Trades
Painter
Apply paints, stains, varnish, and finishes to buildings and structures. Includes surface preparation, paper hanging, and diverse application techniques using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment.
Drywall Finisher
Tape and finish drywall panels, by embedding tape and applying joint compound to create smooth surfaces. Includes texturing, EIFS applications, and decorative finishes.
Glazier
Select, cut, install, and replace all types of glass in residential and commercial settings. Build metal frameworks, install curtain walls, and work with specialty glass systems.
Industrial Painter
Specialize in protective coatings for industrial structures. Includes abrasive blasting, surface preparation, equipment maintenance, and application of specialized industrial coatings.
Sign & Display
Fabricate, install, and maintain traditional and digital signage systems. Includes vinyl graphics, LED displays, wayfinding systems, and modern digital advertising installations.
Start as an Apprentice
Western Great Lakes Finishing Trades Institute offers formal state-indentured apprenticeship programs in cooperation with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Apprentices receive on-the-job training with progressive pay increases starting at 50% of journeyperson rate plus benefits. Classroom training ensures comprehensive knowledge of your chosen trade. Programs typically span 3 years with regular pay step increases as you advance.
Apply for ApprenticeshipJoin as a Journeyman
Already skilled in one of our trades? Join IUPAT DC 7 as an experienced craftsperson and obtain access to our comprehensive benefits package, competitive wages, and strong collective bargaining power. We set the industry standard for quality and professionalism across all finishing trades throughout Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. With full union representation, you'll enjoy job security, career advancement opportunities, and access to continuing education programs.
Apply as JourneymanKnow Your Rights
Knowing your rights during encounters with law enforcement is crucial for your protection. This guide provides essential information for safely navigating interactions with authorities, including immigration agents. Keep this information accessible in your home and share it with family members. Click the image below to download a printable version you can post on your door or carry with you.
