Women’s History Month: Calderon’s journey from baker to union leader

The Director of Health and Safety for the International Association of Bricklayers and Allied Crafts, Liliana Calderon, joined the America’ s Work Force Union Podcast to talk about her journey into the trade and how she adapted to the physical demands of the job. Calderon also discussed her work with the BAC Sisters RISE group and the women’s health programs available through the union.

Joining the Bricklayers wasn’t Calderon’s initial plan. She was working at a bakery when she visited a career fair and found the Bricklayers Apprenticeship Program. Calderon talked about what led her to the program and why she believed she would succeed. She then talked about her experience and what she needed to do to adapt to the physical demands of the work. Calderon shared her passion for the work and how the projects she’s worked on can be used to showcase her 17-year career.

Calderon serves as a leader of the BAC Sisters RISE group. The group supports women in the Bricklayers who seek advice and try to develop leadership skills. Calderon talked about the tools and training available to women in the union and how this group is helping to retain more women in the organization. As the union works to increase the number of female members, Calderon's work helps guide the Bricklayers union on ways to help support and develop women.

As Director of Health and Safety for Bricklayers International, Calderon discussed the programs available to women in the union. She spoke about the maternity benefits available to women in the organization to help offset prenatal care expenses and even time off to help with recovery. Calderon also spoke about the discounts available from the BAC that help men and women in the union with childcare costs. There has been a major increase in member interaction in the programs the Bricklayers are using to help with women's health equity making it easier for women to stay in the trade and become leaders.

Listen to the show above to hear more about Calderon’s journey and what the Bricklayers are doing to