Jason B. Engels began his career with Local 1098 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana as a scaffold carpenter in the petrochemical industry as well as a general carpenter in the commercial construction industry. He served in several local and council offices until eventually being hired as an organizer, and in 2005, was elected Executive Secretary-Treasurer.
He served as EST of the Louisiana Council and, subsequently, of the Central South Regional Council for 18 years.
As EST, Engels expanded work opportunities across the Central South by strengthening partnerships throughout the industry. His leadership delivered major wage gains, enhanced benefits, and reduced administrative costs through successful trust fund consolidation.
He advanced healthcare coverage—including expanded support for families—while championing professional development and collaboration among staff. In 2022, he received the Excellence in Leadership Award for improving opportunities and healthcare for all carpenters.
He also drove major training investments, including new state-of-the-art centers across the region. In 2023, Engels was appointed UBC Southern District Vice President and in 2025, he was appointed UBC General Secretary-Treasurer.
As a member of the UBC General Executive Board, Engels continues to advance trust fund consolidation and cross-regional collaboration in order to grow market share for signatory contractors, expand work opportunities for our members, and improve the lives of all working carpenters.
