My first health and safety struggle (and success) was the removal of the lead based solder used on the joints between the windshield post and the roof of cars. Our "Get The Lead Out" campaign helped prevent blood disease, liver problems and birth defects for men and women on the line. When the plant closed, I became a mechanic at Westinghouse Electric. An affirmative action hiree, I found that not all the guys welcomed me there, but within a year of hard work, I was elected recording secretary of the local. Working with toxic chemical like TCE, I took up the effort to get better protective equipment. It was during this effort that I learned about and joined the Santa Clara Center for Occupational Safety and Health (SCCOSH). I served on the board for 10 years until coming to the San Mateo County Labor Council.

I have been at the Labor Council for 19 years and at its helm for over 8 years, and am also a Vice-President of the California Labor Federation. My interest in health and safety has not waned. Our council has a program called: Health@Work which serves to assist workers with Health and Safety issues as well as chronic disease management. I hope to serve as part of the ongoing labor and community efforts to protect workers and the environment from harmful exposures. The CalCOSH board is composed of wonderful, dedicated people and I am honored to serve with them.