Fred Taylor gives Central Massachusetts a voice in one of the largest trade unions in the country, advocating for more than 30,000 members across the region. While the carpenters have been busy enough on numerous multimillion dollar projects, including three valued at more than $240 million in Worcester and Charlton, what sets Taylor and the organization apart is the focus on people.
Ensuring a living wage and supportive benefits is an essential for Taylor. A community-focused lens that comes from his upbringing within Worcester means Taylor is dedicated to the people in the place where he lives and works. He furthers this agenda through ample training opportunities uplifting union members.
Taylor is one of four people representing Worcester on Gov. Maura Healey’s Advisory Council on Black Empowerment and brings the interests of the carpenters union on that council. Through and beyond his role at the NAACP, Taylor works to uplift other professionals who are making a difference in Central Massachusetts, working to sew together the fabric of an inclusive, progressive Worcester.
How should professionals best use the power they wield? “Businesses of all shapes and sizes should use their power by investing in their communities, and by providing diversity, equity, and inclusion to their workforce and leadership … Workers help businesses succeed and develop wealth; business professionals should make sure all of their workers are in return sharing in their success.”
Which other professionals are making a difference in the Central Mass. community? “Parlee Jones and her daughter Sha-Asia Taylor (no relation to me) operate a community center called The Village Worcester. The Village is an Afrocentric community center offering cultural programming and opportunities for communities to explore holistic healing.”
Last laugh: Taylor loves comedy.
