Carpenters Revolutionize Construction Industry

Chicago, Illinois (May 29, 2019)—The Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters (CRCC) and Skender Foundation are leading the way to develop a program for modular manufacturing in Chicago. “The CRCC was integral in the development of this progressive partnership with Skender,” said Executive Secretary-Treasurer Gary Perinar. “This puts the City of Chicago at the forefront of a new innovative method of constructing multifamily, healthcare, hospitality and commercial projects through modular manufacturing. Our highly trained and skilled carpenters will produce high-quality products that will improve and enhance communities across the city, the Midwest and around the country.

The Carpenter’s Union’s key partner in creating this new building program is Skender, a vertically integrated design, construction and manufacturing firm, and a signatory contractor with the CRCC. Skender’s new 105,000 square-foot facility on Chicago’s southwest side. Pulaski will create more than 150 new jobs; the City of Chicago, Skender and the CRCC will provide job training and employment opportunities for many residents of the city’s communities. Modular manufacturing starts with engineered interior and exterior walls, ceilings, windows and floors being constructed in a manufacturing plant and then transported to a project site where they are assembled and constructed by highly trained and skilled tradespeople.

“Skender has had a longstanding relationship with the CRCC since our founding more than 60 years ago,” said Mark Skender, chief executive officer (CEO), Skender. “Now we are proud to come together on a groundbreaking agreement for the employees of our new advanced manufacturing facility, where we will bring together the design, construction and manufacturing under one roof to forge the future of the building industry.” 

Gary Perinar joined Skender CEO Mark Skender and his father, Joseph Skender Sr., a 60-year Carpenters Union Member, at the ribbon cutting ceremony. For more information, visit carpentersunion.org.