Executive Secretary, Houston Gulf Coast Building & Construction Trades Council
Paul J. Puente serves as the Executive Secretary of the Houston Gulf Coast Building and Construction Trades Council, representing construction unions across a 20-county jurisdiction. Elected in January 2013, Paul oversees 18 unions, 15 crafts, and 13 apprenticeship programs, each with a Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC).
A journeyman wireman electrician and member of IBEW Local Union 716, Paul began his electrical career in 1990, earning a degree in Electrical Technology from San Jacinto Jr. College. He's also an Organizer and Assistant Business Manager for his local.
Paul is a proud family man with his wife, Janie, their six children, and two grandchildren. He is active in numerous organizations, including the Harris County AFL-CIO, Houston Business Roundtable, LCLAA, the Maritime Trades Department, and serves as Labor Liaison for Congressman Al Green. He also holds leadership roles in the Building Trades MC3, Port of Houston Small Business Advisory Board, and other key local initiatives.