Mike DiNapoli for Portland

hool tech changes like dialup modems were already changing the workforce and our classrooms. The technology revolution of the 90’s paved the way to into Communications Workers of America, CWA Local 7901 for me. While with the CWA, I learned what goes into engineering, furnishing and maintaining a utility telecom infrastructure system. These skills and training gave me the insight into building and planning for 25, 50 and even looking at 100 years in longevity. Regulatory changes in the telecom space through the 90’s broke up long standing utility exemptions leading to safer building codes and licensing. These changes also opened the door for a new partnership for me with the local electrical union, the International Brotherhood of Electrical workers, IBEW Local 48, as a Sound & Communications Low Voltage Electrician. I have worked for businesses, contractors and owners all across the city and country and I've worked with good and bad employers and union and non-union companies. I can tell you from experience that safer and healthier communities exist in a cities when there's a vibrant middle class. I know to well the challenges families face trying to raise a happy, healthy and safe households. I've raised my family on a working class income that often never went far enough to cover everything and leaving me, like so many others, to make tough decisions. Economic hardships that came from the 'dot com' stock market crash in 2000 and then again with the housing bubble crash in 2009 were pivotal times of innovation and transformation in our communities and, the start of my path of entrepreneurship. Working in the ‘gig economy’ I have provided support with a variety of maintenance, security and event technology projects around the region. I eventually found my way into the Oregon’s film and television production renaissance and found my partnership with IATSE - the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. I'm a small business owner and founder of People’s AV. We are an event technology company where we setup and manage Audio, Video, Streaming and Recording for corporate meetings, trade shows, private party’s, concerts and networking events. Also Program Director at The Studio which is a recording space for audio and video sessions like voice overs, podcasts and audiobooks. As your voice on City Council I will be a voice for a government transparency and accountability. Together we Reboot and Revitalize the Rose City!