Oregon Tradeswomen Inc. executive Tiffany Thompson has left to take a position with a union group: the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 75.

Thompson spent the past four years with OTI as director of advocacy programs seeking out new opportunities to usher more women into skilled trades and the construction industry. Her last day at OTI was Monday.

“Tiffany has been a tremendous asset not only to Oregon Tradeswomen, but to our industry as a whole,” OTI Executive Director Kelly Kupcak stated, “and also to the national tradeswomen movement in shifting our conversation from what is wrong to the powerful impact we can have when we collaborate together.”

Thompson said she is both excited for the challenges ahead and sad to leave great friends.

“I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the wonderful experience I have had at Oregon Tradeswomen,” she stated. “I plan to stay an active volunteer and donor of the organization. Most importantly, I know that this move will only deepen the relationship between Oregon Tradeswomen and AFSCME, strengthening our shared fight for respectful workplaces, the rights of working folks, and the leadership of our members.”

AFSCME Council 75 is one of the largest trade unions in Oregon, with over 25,000 members representing public employees at the municipal, county and state levels. The union also represents some private-sector workers, primarily nonprofit employees who perform public service work.

Oregon AFSCME is gaining a valuable team member, according to its executive director, Stacy Chamberlain.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Tiffany to our team at Oregon AFSCME,” Chamberlain stated. “Her commitment to worker rights and experience in leadership development and organizing will be huge assets to our organization.”

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