The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) is a labor organization representing workers in the finishing trades, including painters, drywall finishers, glaziers, glass workers, sign and display workers, and floor covering installers. Founded in 1887, the IUPAT has grown to become one of the largest industrial trade unions in North America, with more than 140,000 members in the United States and Canada. The union’s primary mission is to improve the working conditions and wages of its members, while promoting safety and skill training. The IUPAT achieves these goals through collective bargaining agreements, training programs, and advocacy for worker rights. The union’s training programs are designed to provide members with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their respective trades. These programs include classroom and on-the-job training, as well as apprenticeships that provide a path to journey-level status. Some of the skills taught include applying coatings and finishes, installing drywall, hanging wallpaper, and installing flooring materials. In addition to training, the IUPAT is also actively involved in political advocacy. The union supports laws and policies that promote job growth and worker rights, and it also engages in community outreach programs to support local charities and organizations. Overall, the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades is a vital organization for workers in the finishing trades, providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed in the workplace.