Bloomfield Carpenter: Trade Careers Offer ‘Good Living, Dignity’

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — “Good things happen when people get the chance to learn a trade and earn a good living with honor and dignity.” This is part of the philosophy that recently earned Karl Hughes, a sixth-generation carpenter and seasoned mentor from Bloomfield, a special commendation from the Essex County freeholders.

Last month, the Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders paid tribute to Hughes’ lifelong quest to help others realize there’s a career path in the trades, including carpentry.

Born in Ireland, Hughes graduated with a degree in fine arts and communications from Manhattan College. He’s a sixth-generation carpenter and 45-year member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (Local 157), and also serves as an instructor at the New York City District Council of Carpenters Training Center.

In addition to his skills with a hammer, Hughes is an author, teacher and speaker who makes it his personal mission to help laborers find rewarding and successful careers. He’s also been a Boy Scout leader with Troop 22 in Bloomfield for 24 years, earning several Scouting recognitions along the way.

• See related article: Bloomfield Resident Publishes 1st Book: 'Hammering Out A Living'

District 5 Freeholder Carlos Pomares, also of Bloomfield, presented the board’s commendation to Hughes along with a message of thanks.

“It’s important for all of us to know that we need skilled laborers,” Pomares said, adding that “successful career paths do, in fact, exist for those entering the trades.”

• See related article: Teens Train For Car Repair Careers In Bloomfield Despite 'Stigma'

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Don’t forget to visit the Patch Bloomfield Facebook page. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Sign up for Patch email newsletters.