Anthony Abrantes – Local 254

ES

Phone: 732-589-3014
Email: aabrantes@eascarpenters.org

Anthony Abrantes is an accomplished professional currently serving as the Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer for the Eastern Atlantic State Regional Council of Carpenters. In this role, he provides invaluable leadership and oversight for the council, which proudly represents approximately 43,000 Union Carpenters across New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Washington D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia.

With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of organizational dynamics, Anthony plays a pivotal role in managing the day-to-day operations of the regional council. He effectively oversees numerous critical components, including the council’s departments, 18 training centers, 200 staff members, 25 local unions, and 15 regional offices.

His political prowess, comprehensive policy experience, and exceptional business development acumen has fostered the unique ability to navigate complex political landscapes, craft effective policies, and foster strong coalitions. His strategic vision and leadership have been pivotal in driving growth and fostering collaborative efforts across the construction industry. Anthony’s commitment to excellence and his ability to bring together various stakeholders make him a distinguished figure in his field.

Anthony’s dedication to the construction industry extends beyond his role as Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer. He is an Executive Board Member for the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, where his expertise is instrumental in shaping the council’s strategic direction. Additionally, he serves as the Vice Chairman of the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenter Technical College and the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenter Benefit Funds overseeing $11 billion dollars in assets, further contributing to the growth and development of the industry.

Moreover, Anthony’s extensive involvement in various organizations and committees demonstrates his commitment to community engagement and public service. He serves on the Board of Directors for NJ Transit, Choose New Jersey, Board of Trustees for Montclair State University, Board of Trustees for Bloomfield College, the Carpenters Contractor Trust, the Mid-Atlantic Regional Council of Carpenters Benefit Fund, Executive Board of NJ AFL-CIO, Boy Scouts of America (Patriots Path), Board Member of Building One America and Member of the Hudson County Affordable Housing Taskforce. Additionally, he holds leadership positions as Vice Chairman of Progress 360 and President Emeritus for the Northwest Jersey Central Labor Council. He is also a proud member of Tau Kappa Epsilon and the Pennsylvania Society.

Throughout his career, Anthony has held several notable positions within the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, including Organizer, Council Representative, Team Lead, Senior Council Representative, Political Director, and Director of Organizing. These roles have allowed him to develop a comprehensive understanding of the council’s operations and cultivate valuable relationships within the industry.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Anthony is highly regarded for his contributions to the community. He has served as Commissioner for the Morris County Park Commission and Trustee for the Union County College Foundation. Furthermore, he has been an active Board Member of various organizations, including the Cornerstone Family Programs, Morris County Alliance for Action, Morris County Planning Board, Parsippany Police Athletic Association, Morris/Sussex/Warren Workforce Development Board, and Morris County Economic Development Committee. Notably, he was the Founder and President of the Northwest Jersey Central Labor Council.

Anthony’s commitment to education is evident through his academic achievements. He has a Mini-MBA from Rutgers University. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Montclair State University and has earned Executive Certificates from prestigious institutions such as Harvard Law, The Wharton School, Cornell, and Rutgers. Prior to pursuing his education at Montclair State University, he showcased his talent as a division 1 baseball player on a scholarship at Central Connecticut State University.

As an industry expert, Anthony has penned numerous articles and op-eds for various business and political publications. He has been interviewed by several news networks, showcasing his extensive knowledge and insights. Anthony also co-hosts the podcast – Labor Lounge.

Before embarking on his career with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Anthony gained valuable experience as an intern in the New Jersey Office of Attorney General’s Division of Criminal Justice – Organized Crime and Racketeering Bureau, where he worked as an investigative analyst.

Anthony’s remarkable contributions have garnered recognition within the industry. He has received accolades such as the Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Citizen Award and has been named on the Insider New Jersey Labor 100 Power List. Additionally, he has been honored as the Essex County Democrats Labor Leader of the Year, Hudson County Building and Construction Trades Labor Leader of the year, Building One New Jersey Powerful Ally of the Year, the Essex/Hudson County CLC Labor Day Parade Grand Marshal, and the Hispanic Heritage Labor Union Leader of the year, further solidifying his reputation as a respected professional.

Originally from Newark, NJ, in Essex County, Anthony now resides in East Hanover, NJ, in Morris County, with his wife, Nicole, and their two children, Nicolette and Anthony Jr.