From Doubt to Determination: Brooke Nichols’ Powerful Path to Becoming a Union Plumber Local 200 NY

Join us as we spotlight Brooke Nichols, a journeywoman plumber with UA Local 200 and one of only 6 women among 1,800+ members.

Brooke’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and purpose. She opens up about growing up with learning challenges, finding her first spark in welding through a BOCES vocational program, and balancing motherhood while raising three daughters. After building and running her own business, she made a bold career shift into plumbing — driven by the understanding that this essential trade safeguards public health and forms the backbone of our communities.

We Discussed:
Going From BOCES welding student to union plumber
Overcoming learning disabilities
Why she chose plumbing over other trades
Balancing three daughters while completing her apprenticeship
Union benefits: two pensions, daycare stipends, free training worth $100K+
Breaking stigmas around women in construction
The importance of vocational education and hands-on learning
Building community through union membership
And much more!

Brooke's message to women: "You're not pigeonholed. Learn these skills—nobody can take them away from you."

--
The ULA Network would like to thank our sponsors and supporters for believing in our mission to support educate and promote our union labor family and our communities.
To learn more visit: https://www.ulanetwork.com/supporters

Connect With ULA
Website: https://www.ulanetwork.com
Facebook: / unionlaboradvisorynetwork
Instagram:   / unionlabora.  .
Linkedin: / union-labor-advisory-network
Subscribe To The Channel: • Union Labor Advisory Network