The Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Technical Centers have long been a starting point for the next generation of carpenters in the construction industry.
With state-of-the art training opportunities featuring the most current trends in educational technology, the centers – in six Mid-Atlantic states – are committed to training the most highly skilled and efficient workforce necessary to remain competitive in today’s construction market.
On Wednesday, U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer got a first-hand look when she toured the Edison training center with Congressman Tom Kean (R, 7th District) to see firsthand how union-led apprenticeship programs are preparing workers for good-paying, in-demand careers in the skilled trades.
The visit was part of Chavez-DeRemer’s nationwide America at Work tour, which is focused on hearing directly from workers, union members, employers, and community leaders to inform and modernize federal labor policy.
Officials said the visit highlighted the administration’s continued focus on expanding apprenticeship programs and strengthening the workforce.
Chavez-DeRemer said she has been working closely with labor organizations, industries, and community partners to meet the rising demand for skilled workers and to ensure working families are supported.
“Labor has built this country, and the president understands that,” she said. “Most Americans just want good-paying jobs, health benefits, and to go home safe at night. My job as Secretary of Labor is to protect all of those. What we saw today is exactly what the President wants to build on. It’s an honor to represent these workers and report back that we are succeeding in delivering on that promise.”
During the visit, Chavez-DeRemer and Kean met with apprentices and instructors, and observed hands-on demonstrations. They spoke with union leaders about how investments in career and technical training are essential to rebuilding the middle class.
Anthony Abrantes, assistant executive secretary-treasurer of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, said he was thrilled to show what the centers can do.
“Our training centers are where careers begin,” he said. “It was an honor to host Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and Congressman Kean and showcase how our union is preparing the next generation of skilled workers.
“Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s visit underscores the critical role union apprenticeship programs play in building America’s workforce.”
The Edison Training Center is one of many carpenters union facilities that shows how real workforce development should be done, Abrantes said.
The center offers debt-free training using the latest tools and technology, helping people build lasting careers. The EASRCC represents over 43,000 members across the region, including thousands in New Jersey. Its apprenticeship program gives hands-on experience, industry-recognized certifications, and a direct path to a career in the trades.
Kean was impressed.
“From construction and manufacturing to transportation infrastructure, everything built in New Jersey is built by the hands of dedicated tradesmen and women,” he said. “Today’s visit to the Northeast Carpenters Training Center, alongside Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer, was an incredible opportunity to see the next generation of skilled laborers in action.
“The center’s workforce development programs show how strong partnerships between labor, industry, and educators equip students with the skills, leadership, and safety training they need to succeed on the job and return home safely to their families each night. As we invest in infrastructure, innovation, and nationwide projects, New Jersey will continue to lead the way due to its strong and skilled workforce.”
Abrantes certainly agrees.
As the country continues to invest in infrastructure, skilled union workers are playing a critical role in delivering that vision, he said.
“The path to middle-class opportunity runs through skilled trades training — where union values of safety, dignity, and economic mobility are taught alongside craftsmanship,” he said. “The work happening at the Carpenters Union is helping strengthen families and entire communities.”
The first EASCTC was established in Philadelphia in 1945 through the U.S. Department of Labor. The Carpenters currently have seventeen other training centers servicing New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.
