Theresa Haymon, Carpenter - Local 327, New England Regional Council of Carpenters
Years in the industry: 21 years
Why did you choose the Construction Industry? I chose the construction industry because I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands. When I was in middle school, instead of taking sewing and cooking, I chose to take carpentry and electrical. That’s when I got my first taste of construction. I knew then that one day I wanted to work in construction. Fast forward 21 years later, I had the opportunity to join the carpenter’s apprenticeship. At that time I was a single mother, living in public housing, on public assistance. I didn’t think twice about joining. I knew joining the carpenter’s union was a way for me to have a better life for me and my son. 21 years later, one of the best decisions I ever made.
As we enter the spring of 2026, the Rhode Island industrial real estate market stands on stable footing, following several years of resilience fueled by constrained supply, steady demand, and dynamic economic conditions.