About Us
The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) is a leading union representing painters, drywall finishers, glaziers, automatic door technicians, hazmat workers, and others across North America.
Established in 1887 as the Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators of America, our union was created to protect workers’ rights, advocate for their safety, and ensure fair wages.
For more than a century, IUPAT has helped shape stronger standards across the trades, opening the door to stable, rewarding careers for generations of skilled workers.
Today, the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades supports thousands of members through training, advocacy, and industry leadership.
IUPAT District Council 46 (DC 46), the Ontario-based council of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, is a diverse and growing union representing skilled tradespeople across the province. DC 46 serves its Ontario members and supports skilled trades workers through local representation, training, and advocacy.
More than 8,000 valued skilled trades professionals across the province of Ontario, representing a strong and growing network of workers.
A wide range of trades including painting, drywall finishing, glazing, automatic door system work, hazmat, EIFS/stucco, and more.
We have local union offices in Toronto, Ancaster, Kitchener, Kingston, Sault Ste. Marie, Thunder Bay, Ottawa, Windsor, and Sarnia/London.
Our training partners include: Finishing Trades Institute of Ontario (FTI) and Interior Finishing Systems Training Centre (IFSTC).
With deep roots in the labour movement, the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades continues to evolve, advocating for fair wages, safer workplaces, and stronger communities.
At IUPAT, we are committed to supporting our members at every stage of their careers.
We do this by:
Our mission is simple: to empower our members with the tools, training, and support they need to succeed.
The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades represents a wide range of skilled trades, each playing a critical role in construction and maintenance projects.
Painters: Apply finishes, coatings, and decorative treatments that protect and enhance surfaces.
Drywall Finishers: Specialize in taping and plastering drywall to create smooth, finished surfaces.
Glaziers: Install and repair glass systems in residential, commercial, and high-rise buildings.
Automatic Door Technicians: Install, maintain, and repair automatic door systems to ensure accessible entryways.
Hazmat Workers: Safely handle and remove hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, and mould.
Other Trades: Support a range of specialized work across the finishing trades, including EIFS/Stucco, Fireproofers, Epoxy Floor Workers, Polyurethane Workers, and Sign Writers.
The leadership team at IUPAT is dedicated to advancing the rights, safety, and opportunities of union members across North America. With decades of combined experience in the trades and labour movement, they guide the organization with a strong commitment to fairness, growth, and community.
James A. Williams Jr. has served as General President of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades since 2021, bringing a renewed vision focused on inclusion, growth, and worker advocacy. A fourth-generation glazier, he has spent decades within the union, championing workers’ rights and leading efforts to combat wage theft and worker misclassification. Under his leadership, IUPAT continues to strengthen its impact across the labour movement.
Simon Hazelwood began his career as a drywall finisher and has remained deeply connected to training and workforce development throughout his career. Now serving as General Vice President for Canada, he plays a key role in supporting training initiatives, strengthening industry partnerships, and advancing opportunities for members across the country.
Bruno Mandic brings over 20 years of industry experience to his role, having started as a drywall finisher before moving into leadership. As Business Manager and Secretary-Treasurer of District Council 46, he is instrumental in advocating for workers’ rights, supporting benefit programs, and strengthening the union’s presence across Ontario.
What is the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT)?
The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades is a labour union representing skilled workers in painting, drywall finishing, glazing, and related trades across North America.
What is IUPAT District Council 46 (DC 46)?
IUPAT District Council 46 (DC 46) is the Ontario-based council of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. It represents and supports members across the province through training, advocacy, and local union representation.
Who can join IUPAT?
Anyone interested in building a career in the skilled trades, whether they’re just starting out or are already experienced, can apply to join IUPAT.
What does IUPAT do for its members?
Where does IUPAT operate?
The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades operates across the United States and Canada, including Ontario through District Council 46.
Whether you have questions or need support, IUPAT members are never on their own. Our team is here to help you navigate your career, access resources, and make the most of your membership because in IUPAT, we stand together as one union, one family, one fight.
Reaching out is the first step! If you have questions about joining, training, or advancing your career in the trades, we are here to help every step of the way. Our team can guide you through the available opportunities, from apprenticeships to ongoing training and career growth.
By reaching out to us today, you are well on your journey toward building a successful career and a solid future with IUPAT.
