Every union member has a story, a reason they chose representation, solidarity, and a better future. For Enrique Garza, that story begins with perseverance and grows into a commitment to helping others build the stability he once searched for himself.
Union work isn’t just employment for Garza and his family; it’s stability, opportunity, and long-term security.
Originally from Mexico and in the United States since the age of 2, Garza navigated DACA, secured his work permit, became a legal resident, and is now working toward full citizenship. His journey reflects resilience and a deep appreciation for opportunity.
Garza began working in construction in 2016 on the non-union side as an interior systems carpenter specializing in metal framing, drywall, and acoustical ceilings. At first, the pay seemed good.
“At 18 or 19, you think, ‘This is good money,’” Garza said. “But then you start realizing it’s not just the money that’s important.”
Working for labor brokers, he received cash payments and little to no protections.
“If you get hurt on the job, it’s like, ‘good luck,’” Garza said.
He recalls a worker being injured on a project and coworkers being asked to pass a hat to help financially.
“That’s when you realize there’s no security. No representation,” he said.
In 2020, a friend encouraged him to join the union. The difference was immediate.
“It’s so different working union because you have representation,” Garza said. “You have benefits. You have access to training. It’s safer. It’s guaranteed.”
After working for a union contractor in Austin, Garza joined the union council staff. Though he initially preferred field work, encouragement from his wife led him to take the leap.
Today, as a council organizer serving the Houston market, Garza recruits new members, coordinates staffing for contractors, connects members to training opportunities, and works directly with the local membership.
“I assist and push them, but essentially it’s the members who keep the local running,” he said.
What drives him most is educating members about their rights, benefits, and collective strength.
“You’ve got to see it as a career, not just a job,” Garza said. “What are you going to do when your body can’t do this work forever?”
That long-term perspective also shapes how he views political engagement. Garza believes strong representation at the state level directly impacts working families across Texas.
“We support the ones who support us,” he said of the Council’s endorsements of James Talarico for Texas Senate and Montserrat Garibay for the Texas House. “They understand the working class. They’re willing to fight for better wages and safer working conditions.”
For Garza, union work and political advocacy are intertwined.
“One helps the other,” he said. “When leaders are willing to stand with working families, we stand with them.”
At home, Garza and his wife, a sixth-grade math teacher, are raising their young son with stability in mind. Union benefits have made a meaningful difference for their household.
“When you’re married and have kids, those benefits matter,” Garza said. “That’s one less thing you have to worry about. It’s stability for your family.”
If he could leave members with one message, it would be simple: “Educate, agitate, and organize!”
Because when members understand their power, they strengthen not only their local, but the entire community. For Garza, that’s what this work is truly about: building something stronger, not just on the jobsite today, but for generations to come.