Aurora Bihler, Next Director of Building Union Diversity Program

Construction Forum’s mission is, “To facilitate the collaboration of all the stakeholders in the St. Louis Region’s built environment in creating inclusive, robust employment and economic growth.” The “Forum Focus” podcasts present stories of people who are working to make that vision and mission happen.

When Aurora Bihler graduated from high school her Dad bought her an acetylene welding rig.

The young budding artist was concerned lest she burn down the family garage so she enrolled in a welding class. She earned associate and bachelors degrees in fine arts and went on to work for a state-funded archeological survey.

But when the opportunity arose to put her welding skills to work as a union ironworker she took advantage of it.

Soon, her passion for social equity and social justice, which also began in school, led her to become a mentor and activist for women in the trades and for imprisoned women seeking a fresh start.

Now she has been named to head up the St. Louis branch of the MO AFL-CIO’s Building Union Diversity program known as BUD. Russ Signorino, the current director, is retiring in December.

Let’s listen to our conversation with Aurora Bihler.