Painters, drywall finishers, glaziers, and allied trades workers across Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. back Jawando for County Executive
Montgomery County, MD - Will Jawando today announced the endorsement of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 51, which represents painters, drywall finishers, glaziers, and allied trades workers across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
Jawando toured DC51’s registered apprenticeship training facility, where members train on real-world infrastructure, including bridge and industrial painting, that keeps Maryland and the nation’s infrastructure running.
“We stand behind leaders who stand with working people. That’s why we support Will Jawando, who prioritizes policies that expand economic opportunity, protect workers’ rights, and invest in the industries that keep our communities strong,” said DC51 Business Manager Brian Courtien.
“DC51 members build the infrastructure that keeps Maryland running, and they deserve a County Executive who has their back,” said Jawando. “As County Executive, I’ll make sure our public investments prioritize union labor, pay prevailing wages, and expand apprenticeship pipelines so every kid in Montgomery County knows there’s a path to a good career without taking on debt.”
“Will Jawando has been a champion for labor. His dedication to equality, inclusion, and social justice aligns with our core values as a union,” Courtien added. “Throughout his career, he has tirelessly advocated for working families — promoting fair wages, safe work conditions, and access to healthcare. His support for labor rights, combined with his experience in public service, positions him as a leader who understands the challenges we face every day. Having individuals like Will here that are supportive of unions, supportive of prevailing wage, and the things that the union stands for is important — not just for the IUPAT, but it’s going to be very important for Montgomery County.”
DC51’s endorsement adds to Jawando’s growing coalition of labor support, which includes SEIU Local 500, 32BJ SEIU, 1199SEIU, LiUNA, AFGE District 14, and the Montgomery County Education Association (MCEA).
About IUPAT District Council 51
The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 51 represents painters, drywall finishers, glaziers, floor coverers, sign and display workers, and allied trades across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. DC51 operates registered apprenticeship programs that provide debt-free pathways to careers with family-sustaining wages, healthcare, and retirement benefits. IUPAT is affiliated with the North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) and the AFL-CIO.
About Will Jawando
Will Jawando is an At-Large member of the Montgomery County Council, first elected in 2018. A civil rights attorney, former Obama White House official, and author, Jawando has dedicated his career to expanding opportunity for all. On the Council, he has championed legislation to support working families, increase affordable housing, improve public education, and advance racial equity. He lives in Ashton with his wife and four children.
Media Contact: Shawn Mingo (301-392-7750) | info@willjawando.com