Back in 1997, the movie Titanic dominated theaters, a gallon of gas cost $1.38, and the Southeastern Carpenters Regional Council was established.

25 years later, the SECRC represents more than 6,000 professional carpenters and consistently achieves annual growth in both work hours and membership. Work is plentiful, training programs are busy, and out-of-work members are at an all-time low.

“I couldn’t be prouder of this organization and the people behind it,” said Tom Jenkins, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the SECRC. “Every day, in each of the five-states we represent, we are working diligently to give our members a great quality of life by keeping them employed with partner contractors who also support our efforts. This is an outstanding Council, and I am honored to be a part of it.”

In addition to the many membership service programs that the SECRC has launched over the past 25 years, the Council operates a robust political program, which recently got the Georgia state legislature to pass a Tax Fraud and Worker Misclassification bill with overwhelming bipartisan support. The Council also provides access to leadership development for its members and supports an active Sisters in the Brotherhood Program.

UBC Southern District Vice President Dennis Donahou said: “I offer to each and every member, staff, officer, and delegate a sincere congratulations on your Council’s 25th anniversary. I believe your success is due to strong leadership, staff, officers, and an active membership. And what makes everything come together is a dedicated group of delegates. It’s clear that you have the people and the programs in place to make your future very bright for the next 25 years.”