OUTSTANDING BAC CRAFTSMANSHIP

Erin McNamara 
Administrative District Council 1 of Illinois

With a foundation in sculpting and clay work from the prestigious Chicago Institute of Art, Sister Erin McNamara’s remarkable journey began in 1993 when she was asked to restore the iconic Wrigley Building. Union agents invited her to join their ranks, offering a fair wage, medical coverage, and a pension she did not previously have. Joining BAC as a pointer-cleaner-caulker opened a door for Sister McNamara that would elevate her career to new heights.

Her meticulous attention to detail, combined with a rare ability to match and repair masonry colors, caught the attention of contractors, and Sister McNamara became the go-to restoration specialist in Chicago. From the Wrigley Building to Marshall Field’s, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Chicago Tribune Tower, Sister McNamara’s work has left a lasting mark on the city. 

In 2019, ADC 1 of IL PCC Director Hector Arellano asked Sister McNamara to develop a curriculum on masonry repair and color matching for the next generation of craftworkers. With the same passion and dedication she’s shown throughout her career, Sister McNamara created a comprehensive training program that has since been implemented at the District Council Training Center of Illinois.

For over five years, Sister McNamara was not only an instructor but a mentor, particularly to women entering the trade. Now retired, Sister McNamara leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shape the future of PCC craftworkers.