From Apprentice to Leader: How Savy Francis is Empowering Women in the Union Trades

By ULA Network | Supporting, Educating, and Promoting Union Labor & Our Communities

Building a Career—and a Community—Through Union Opportunity

At the Union Labor Advisory Network (ULA), we are proud to highlight the real stories behind union careers—the stories that inspire, educate, and create pathways for the next generation.

We recently had the opportunity to connect with Savy Francis of UA Local 537 in Boston at the DEWALT Innovation Center in Maryland, during the NYC Tradeswomen Meet-Up on March 28th—an event that brought together hundreds of women across multiple states to celebrate, connect, and advance opportunities in the skilled trades.

Savy’s journey is more than a career story—it’s a blueprint for empowerment through union apprenticeship, leadership, and community.

From Pre-Apprenticeship to Purpose-Driven Career

Savy began her journey in 2013 through the Building Pathways pre-apprenticeship program in Massachusetts—an initiative designed to introduce individuals to careers in the construction trades.

With a clear vision and determination, she applied to the UA Local 537 Pipefitters apprenticeship program the moment applications opened. What followed was a fast-paced and transformative experience that shaped both her career and her future.

• Completed her apprenticeship and served as class president
• Gained hands-on training and industry experience
• Built a strong foundation through union mentorship and solidarity

In 2018, Savy officially journeyed out—and within just two weeks, she achieved a milestone that reflects the true power of union careers:

👉 She purchased her first home just outside of Boston

Union Careers Create Real-Life Impact

Savy’s story reinforces what union labor continues to deliver for working families across the country:

• Family-sustaining wages
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits
• Retirement security
• Career stability and upward mobility

As Savy shared, union membership provided not just a paycheck—but the ability to put food on the table, support her family, and build a future with confidence.

This is the real, measurable impact of apprenticeship programs and collective bargaining—creating pathways to the middle class and beyond.

Turning Success Into Service: Supporting Women in the Trades

What makes Savy’s journey even more powerful is her commitment to lifting others as she climbs.

Following the pandemic, she helped establish the UA Local 537 Women’s Committee, focused on:

• Retention and support of women in the trades
• Community outreach and mentorship
• Creating inclusive pathways for new entrants

She also co-founded Boston Union Trade Sisters, a rapidly growing network of over 1,000 women across Massachusetts who are united by shared experiences, support, and opportunity.

Through this initiative, Savy and her fellow tradeswomen are building more than careers—they are building a movement grounded in solidarity, mentorship, and empowerment.

Creating Access Through Community Engagement

Savy actively encourages women interested in the trades to take the first step through accessible, community-driven initiatives like:

👉 Tradeswomen Tuesday (Roxbury, MA – First Tuesday of every month)

These events provide:

• Direct access to union resources
• Education on apprenticeship opportunities
• Networking and mentorship from experienced tradeswomen

By meeting people where they are, Savy and her peers are breaking down barriers and opening doors for the next generation.

A National Movement: NYC Tradeswomen Meet-Up at DEWALT

Our conversation with Savy took place at the NYC Tradeswomen Meet-Up hosted at the DEWALT Innovation Center in Maryland on March 28th—an inspiring event that brought together over 200 tradeswomen from across the country. 

The event highlighted:

• Innovation in tools and technology
• Cross-union collaboration
• The growing presence and leadership of women in the skilled trades

ULA Network’s Mike and Stefanie Fina were proud to be in attendance—supporting, documenting, and amplifying the voices of women who are shaping the future of the industry.

Why Stories Like Savy’s Matter

At ULA Network, we believe that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to:

• Educate communities about career opportunities
• Promote the value of union labor
• Inspire the next generation of skilled professionals

Savy Francis represents what’s possible when opportunity meets determination—and when success is shared with others.

Call to Action: Take the First Step

If you’re exploring a career path—or know someone who is—consider the union trades:

✔️ Earn while you learn through apprenticeship
✔️ Build a lifelong, in-demand skillset
✔️ Access strong wages, benefits, and retirement security
✔️ Join a community built on solidarity and support

👉 Learn more about union apprenticeship opportunities in your area
👉 Attend local workforce events like Tradeswomen Tuesday
👉 Follow and support organizations like Boston Union Trade Sisters

Disclaimer

This content is intended for educational and informational purposes only. ULA Network does not provide employment placement services or guarantees of employment. Individuals are encouraged to contact local unions, apprenticeship programs, and workforce development organizations directly for specific application requirements and opportunities.

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About the Union Labor Advisory Network (ULAnetwork)

The ULA Network is dedicated to honoring the strength and solidarity of union labor by educating, connecting, and empowering individuals through shared experiences, opportunities, and support. Our mission is to uplift families and communities by promoting the value of union careers, economic development, and workforce resilience. Through collaboration and storytelling, we aim to build a future where every person understands the power of unity, dignity in work, and the promise of a better tomorrow. http://www.ulanetwork.com Subscribe to the ULA Network for more interviews, insights, and inspiration about union labor, skilled trades, and the opportunities waiting for you in the construction industry!

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