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One Union.

One Family.

One Fight.

IUPAT District Council 7

Representing nearly 2,000 skilled tradespeople across Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula since 2003. Our members deliver unmatched craftsmanship in painting, drywall finishing, glazing, and allied trades.

IUPAT DC7 Story & History

Our Story

IUPAT District Council 7 was chartered on April 25, 2003, as part of a strategic reorganization that consolidated smaller local unions into more efficient regional councils, building upon a proud legacy dating back to 1887 when the Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators was founded in Baltimore.

Established specifically to serve Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula, DC7 was designed to address the unique industrial landscape, seasonal work patterns, and economic conditions of our region while providing enhanced bargaining power, comprehensive training programs, and improved benefit administration.

Today, we proudly represent approximately 2,400 skilled tradespeople—a dynamic blend of multi-generational union families carrying forward time-honored traditions alongside first-generation members bringing fresh perspectives and energy to our ever-evolving industry.

Our History

1887: The Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators of America is founded
1918: Our parent organization helps establish the eight-hour workday and five-day workweek
1940s: IUPAT members contribute significantly to World War II efforts, with thousands serving in armed forces
1960s: The union becomes increasingly involved in political advocacy, contributing to landmark civil rights legislation
2003: IUPAT District Council 7 is chartered to serve Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula
2005: The STAR Program is established to promote workplace safety through advanced training
Present Day: We continue to evolve and adapt to changing industry demands while maintaining our core commitment to worker welfare

ABOUT US

IUPAT DC7 - Our Mission

Our Mission

To better the lives of each and every member by being the strongest, most powerful voice in the industries we represent.

One Union

Our strength is forged through unity by every member working together, regardless of individual trades, throughout North America.

One Family

We stand together as one. We support, care for, and respect each other in our union halls, on and off the job sites, each and every day.

One Fight

We fight together for stronger contracts — safer job sites, industry-leading pay, and democracy at work for every worker in our crafts.

LOCAL UNIONS

Local Unions - IUPAT DC7

Our local unions are the heart of IUPAT District Council 7, serving members across Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Each local represents skilled tradespeople in their communities, providing meeting spaces, local leadership, and direct support for members' needs. From training opportunities to member services, your local union is your direct connection to the benefits and brotherhood of organized labor.

Click Here to Find Your Local Union

OUR TRADES

Our Trades - IUPAT DC7

IUPAT District Council 7 represents highly skilled craftspeople across five essential building trades. From commercial painting that protects and beautifies structures to precision glazing that creates modern architectural marvels, our trades form the backbone of construction and renovation throughout Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Each trade offers comprehensive apprenticeship programs, competitive wages, and pathways to lifelong careers built on expertise, safety, and pride in craftsmanship.

Click to View Our Trades

Latest News & Events

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News Archive

Trades Institute Training Calendar

IUPAT DC7 Training Calendar
October 2025
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Fitchburg
Big Bend
Neenah
Gladstone

World Class Training

From fundamental safety certification to advanced glazier techniques, Western Great Lakes Finishing Trades Intitute delivers hands-on training programs designed by industry experts to advance your career, enhance job site safety, and keep you current with the latest standards and innovations in our trades.

Training Information

One Family.

Ready To Join?

Taking the first step toward IUPAT DC7 membership is easy. Contact our membership team to discuss your background, interests, and the pathway that’s right for you.

Why Choose IUPAT DC7

Our members consistently give our benefits and programs top ratings. Here’s why IUPAT DC7 membership makes a difference:

Contact DC7

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