Jeremy Diaz
UA LOCAL 78 BUSINESS MANAGER

Jeremy Diaz doesn’t hide his gratitude for the opportunities he was afforded as a young person, opportunities that opened doors to his rewarding and successful career in the trades. His gratitude is so strong, in fact, that he has committed much of that career to ensuring others have the same opportunities, no matter their gender, race or means.

A proud second-generation plumber, Diaz began his apprenticeship with UA Local 78 in Los Angeles in 2006 and after turning out began quickly ascending the ranks of the local, from serving on the Finance and Apprenticeship committees to election to the Executive Board. In 2014, he started as an organizer for Southern California Pipe Trades and two years later was elected business representative and apprenticeship coordinator. And in 2019 he became business manager of Local 78.

Diaz joined IAPMO 10 years ago and his impact has been noteworthy. Elected to the Board of Directors last year, he chairs IAPMO’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. His leadership and advocacy efforts have been pivotal in fostering a more inclusive environment, ensuring that all members have equitable opportunities regardless of their background. With Local 78, Diaz has championed initiatives that promote diverse hiring practices, support underrepresented groups, and create a workplace culture where everyone feels valued and respected. His work in this area reflects a deep commitment to not only improving representation but also addressing systemic barriers that may hinder the progress of diverse individuals in the trade.

Recently, he was instrumental in maintaining IAPMO student memberships for the plumbing apprentices throughout Southern California’s local unions as well as implementing ASSE International student memberships for Local 78 apprentices. His work has been especially progressive where it concerns promoting women in the trades — he serves as board secretary for Women in Non-Traditional Employment Roles. He also sent one of Local 78’s most accomplished female plumbers to participate in IWSH’s most recent project on the Navajo Nation and ensured her attendance at this conference here today.

By advocating for fair practices and supporting underrepresented groups, Diaz has helped foster a more collaborative and supportive workplace. His leadership in DEI efforts underscores a broader vision of a unified and forward-thinking industry that values every member's contribution and perspective.

In honor of his efforts, IAPMO is very pleased to recognize Jeremy Diaz as the recipient of 2024’s President’s Green Oval Award.

“This is obviously a big surprise, thank you all,” he said. “I’m lucky enough to do this for a living and I believe every person should have the opportunity to do what we do.”