Never Too Late to Start: The Inspiring Rise of Vincent Alu and Local 66's Impact on Long Island
Vincent Alu's story proves that it's never too late to transform your life through union membership. At 40 years old, this Long Island native went from working as a neighborhood landscaper to becoming the business manager of Laborers Local 66, representing 600 hard-working men and women who build the infrastructure that keeps Nassau and Suffolk counties moving forward.
From Landscaper to Labor Leader
Alu's journey began in Massapequa, where he grew up "digging holes and pushing wheelbarrels." His path to union leadership started with a chance encounter with a Local 66 shop steward who pointed him toward the apprenticeship program. Despite the year-long application process, Alu persevered and entered as a 40-year-old level one apprentice-a decision that would change his life forever.
"I finally felt like I was part of an organization that really had my back," Alu reflects. "Sometimes in a small and non-union world, it's every man for himself. And I don't think that's fair."
The Power of Local 66
General Building Laborers Local 66 serves as the Nassau Suffolk affiliate of the Laborers' International Union of North America, part of a 550,000-member organization nationwide. With 80 years of history on Long Island, Local 66 has built the region's critical infrastructure-every public school, mall, train station, and airport.
The local specializes in the challenging work that others often avoid: concrete, major demolition, and complex construction projects for hospitals, schools, and public works. As Alu puts it, "We typically do the stuff that nobody else wants to do and we do it well."
Creating Pathways for the Next Generation
What sets Local 66 apart is its commitment to developing future leaders and creating direct pipelines into union careers. Through partnerships with Long Island school districts, they've pioneered skills training programs for high school students-making them the first in New York State to implement such pathways.
"The most important thing that leaders of any organization have as their number one responsibility is to get the next generation, next crew of leaders behind you ready to go," Alu emphasizes.
The local has also brought apprenticeship standards to Long Island townships, requiring municipalities to utilize apprenticeship programs for public projects. This ensures quality work while creating more opportunities for skilled trades training.
Union Labor: The Ladder to Middle Class
Alu's personal experience illustrates why union membership remains crucial for working families. Coming from a union family-his mother and grandmother were both union members-he understands the difference organized labor makes.
"At some point you want to expand and grow your own family and take part in this middle class economy and life here on Long Island. It's really hard to do without the support of organized labor," he explains. "It's the ladder out of just getting by paycheck to paycheck."
Preparing Leaders Through Education
Local 66's commitment to education extends throughout the organization. Members are encouraged to participate in training at every level, with Alu himself becoming a certified instructor for the international union. The local takes seriously the responsibility of preparing the next generation of leaders to ensure smooth transitions and continued strong representation.
Through the International Union's Learn Program, Local 66 has expanded their educational mission to include high school students, creating full-circle opportunities for young people to discover union careers early in their academic journey.
Looking Forward
At 57, Alu plans to spend his remaining years in leadership preparing the next team of Local 66 leaders.
His focus on workforce development and job training reflects what he calls his "sacred mission"— ensuring that union opportunities remain available for future generations.
The challenges facing union leadership today make platforms for sharing positive stories more important than ever. As Alu notes, "We are doing the best we can and we need our friends and partners with platforms to elevate the good intentions that we put out there."
Local 66's work continues to demonstrate that union labor isn't just about individual careers-it's about building communities, supporting families, and creating the infrastructure that keeps Long Island thriving. Whether you're a student exploring career options, a parent considering opportunities for your
children, or someone ready for a fresh start like Vincent Alu was at 40, the door to union membership and a middle-class future remains open.
For those interested in learning more about apprenticeship opportunities with Laborers Local 66, their commitment to training, education, and member support continues to make them a vital part of Long Island's workforce development landscape.
To Learn More Visit: www.local66.org
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