05/22/2026
My Turn | Public dollars should create local jobs in Danville
"The question is simple," Houston Kirby writes. "How can a developer accept local tax dollars while failing to prioritize local labor? How can a publicly supported project bring in an
05/19/2026
🥳Another pre-apprentice has earned his way into a union!🥳
Judah Shelby has always been creative and enjoyed painting and creating. It’s why he took part in our 2024 pre-apprentice program, with an eye on joining Painters Local 363. They didn’t have openings after he graduated, but he got a job in the industry to gain experience, and stayed in close contact, never letting them forget how much he wanted to be a union member.
This week, he started with International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Local 363!! 🥳
“I wanted to be in the union and it’s surreal that it actually happened,” he said. “It’s a good feeling, something I’m excited about, and it shows as long as you keep in contact with the people you meet in this program and get some experience, doors are bound to open for you. Just stick it out! Keep going!”
The 22-year-old has always been creative, even starting his own clothing brand after graduating from Champaign Centennial, loved painting and “being in the business of aesthetics.” His uncle, who is also in the trades, sent him information about our pre-apprentice program, telling him what a great opportunity it could be.
He did union internships and worked as an independent painter, but is now the third pre-apprentice to land a union job from our Summer 2024 class, which was a pre-cursor to our current program.
“I appreciate everyone sticking beside me,” he said. “I wouldn’t have made it this far without them.”
Congratulations, Judah!!! 🥳🥳
Illinois State AFL-CIO
10/02/2025
🚨 NOW HIRING – DRYWALL FINISHERS 🚨
Location: Champaign, Illinois
💰 Pay: $40.86/hr + $19.62/hr in Benefits
📦 Benefits Include:
Health & Welfare
Pension
401(k)
Training Programs
Journeyperson Upgrades
🛠️ Do You Have What It Takes?
Journeyperson-level drywall finishing experience
Ability to use mechanical finishing tools such as:
➤ Bazooka
➤ Boxes
➤ Angle Heads
➤ And More!
📍 Apply in person at:
Painters District Council 58 – Local 363
3301 Boardwalk Dr.
Champaign, IL
📞 Call for details: 217-356-9114
10/04/2024
Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Raul Aceves Cisneros | AFL-CIO
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Raul Aceves Cisneros of the Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).
09/20/2024
Raul joined the DC 58 in 2019.
As a painter, he not only strives for excellence in his craft, but by showing his colleagues the union difference by making it his mission to show up with dignity and respect for all.
09/13/2024
Tune into WCIA tonight at 10pm to hear how building trades unions are working to expand parental leave policies for working families. Hannah Hill, DC 58 member, shares her story as the first woman in her local to use her union’s policy.
06/24/2024
Are you looking for an excellent career opportunity as a painter/drywall finisher? Look no further! We currently have open positions for both experienced drywall finishers and Painters in Champaign, Danville and Mattoon.
As a drywall finisher and/or Painter you will play a crucial role in our team. We offer a competitive starting wage ranging from $19.24 to $38.47 per hour, depending on your level of experience. In addition to a competitive salary, we provide an attractive benefits package that includes Health & Welfare, pension, and 401k options.
If you're new to the industry, don't worry! We value talent and determination, which is why we also offer training for our apprentices. This is a great opportunity to kickstart your career in the field of painting and drywall finishing.
Applications can be filled out at the Painters District Council 58 Local 363 office located at 3301 Boardwalk Dr, Champaign, Illinois. For more information or to inquire about the position, please call 217-356-9114.
Join our dynamic team and take advantage of this amazing opportunity. Apply now to secure your position as a valued member Painters District Council 58 Local 363