Episode 14: Building the Future with Matthew Aracich

President – Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties

In this episode of Policy and Culture, we sit down with Matthew Aracich, a third-generation union member and the dynamic President of the Nassau-Suffolk Building and Construction Trades Council, representing over 65,000 tradesmen and tradeswomen across 37 affiliated unions.

Before leading the NSBCTC, Matt built his career from the ground up — starting as a commercial diver nearly 40 years ago, becoming a heavy equipment operator in the U.S. Navy, and later serving as Business Manager and Financial Secretary of Heat and Frost Insulators Local 12 in NYC, where he oversaw $200 million in benefit funds and led key labor negotiations.

In our conversation, we explore his deep union roots, his powerful journey through the trades, and the evolving role of organized labor in today’s economy. Matt shares insights on workforce development, the future of construction on Long Island, and how unions are adapting to meet the needs of the next generation.

Tune in now to hear how labor leadership and public policy intersect — and why it matters for our communities.

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