The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE SERVICE OF KEVIN VAN BUSKIRK
______
HON. MARK DeSAULNIER
of california
in the house of representatives
Friday, September 3, 2021
Mr. DeSAULNIER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of an esteemed leader in Contra Costa County, Kevin Van Buskirk, and congratulate him on his retirement from the Contra Costa Building & Construction Trades Council and Sheet Metal Workers' Local Union No. 104.
Kevin was born in Pleasant Hill, California, to Joel and Deanna Van Buskirk. After graduating in 1979, he became a Teamster and worked as a tire man in San Leandro. After his apprenticeship with Marelich Mechanical at the Chevron Campus, he became an official sheet metal worker. While working as a journeyman, foreman, and general foreman, Kevin actively organized with Sheet Metal Workers' Local Union No. 104 by attending meetings, events, union pickets, and protests.
In November of 1995, Kevin was appointed as the union's first full-
time organizer. As an example of the important work he has done, his efforts to hold a particular non-union company accountable led to the involvement of the Santa Clara County District Attorney and the revelation of ongoing wage theft. In 2000, Kevin was elected Business Representative for Sheet Metal Workers' Local Union No. 104. He also served as a delegate to the Contra Costa Building and Construction Trades Council, as well as a delegate to the Contra Costa Central Labor Council. In 2007, Kevin became President of the Contra Costa Building & Construction Trades Council and Vice President of the Contra Costa Central Labor Council.
In these capacities, he has negotiated numerous project labor agreements and has assisted many young men and women, as well as our returning veterans, into the trades.
Kevin firmly believes that becoming a unionized tradesman has resulted in the success of his career and the ability to provide for his family.
I wish Kevin well in his retirement and thank him for his enduring commitment to the rights of all workers. Please join me in honoring Kevin Van Buskirk for his many contributions to our community.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 153
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