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.