"The Brotherhood of the Beam": Paul Wende on Unions, Fence Wars, and the Future of the Trades

On this episode of Atomic Construction, Kevin is joined by Paul Wende, Business Manager of Chicago’s Local 63 Ironworkers Union, for a no-holds-barred conversation about the real state of the trades.

From navigating outdated perceptions of unions to expanding fence work across the country, Paul brings sharp insight, heart, and a healthy dose of grit.

Together, they unpack:

• The surprising truth behind union “mob” myths
• Why fence work is the most underestimated trade in construction
• How contractors and unions can (finally) work as partners
• What "right to work" really means—and why it matters
• And how Local 63 is reshaping the path from high school to high-paying union careers

Whether you’re boots-on-the-ground or behind a desk, this episode pulls back the curtain on the politics, power, and people shaping the construction world.

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• Kevin Hohe | LinkedIn

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Produced by Pineapple Audio Production.

Produced by Pineapple Audio Production

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