A Northwest Indiana Life in the Spotlight: Eric LaBorde
Born and raised in Northwest Indiana, Eric LaBorde serves as the business agent for Plumbers Union Local 210.
In his role, LaBorde handles dispatching and manpower requests, communicates with union membership contractors, conducts regular jobsite visits, supports organizers and coordinators, represents members in disputes, enforces the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), and more.
“I enjoy helping my fellow union members,” he said.
LaBorde has been a plumber for 26 years. So far, he has been in the Plumbers Union Local 210 for half those years.
“I was non-union for a while, and between the wages and benefits, there’s no comparison,” he said. “It’s the union’s better way of life.”
LaBorde knew early on that he always wanted to be a plumber.
“I knew that I didn’t want to go to college, and I liked working with my hands,” LaBorde said.
The training to officially become a licensed plumber, otherwise known as a journeyman, totals five years. One must pass a state exam and 5th year final exam upon completing the training as well.
“You are an apprentice for five years. If you pass your exams after that, then you’re officially a journeyman,” LaBorde said.
As an apprentice, you can work alongside a journeyman at a client site. This allows the apprentices to learn on the job under supervision.
LaBorde’s current role as business agent required him to be elected by the union’s membership. Before he was elected, LaBorde was very involved with the union and served as an instructor in the union’s apprenticeship program.
“I was an instructor for five years at the union hall,” he said. “I instructed 2nd and 3rd year apprentices.”
LaBorde shares many hobbies with his son, which helps to keep LaBorde very active outside of work. Many of these hobbies are outdoor activities.
“I have a 5-year-old son,” LaBorde said. “We love to hunt and fish and be on my parents’ boat.”
LaBorde is also involved in charitable and non-profit work led by Plumbers Union Local 210.
The Union supports organizations like Mothers Against Driving Drunk (MADD), local high school sports teams, Buddy Walk, many groups that focus on giving back to veterans such as Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and the Indiana Plan Apprenticeship Readiness Program.
As a business agent, LaBorde is very busy with several different tasks and leadership activities. Nevertheless, he finds time to get involved in activities that support local organizations and spend time with his family.