Member Spotlight: Adam Franchino

Local 930 member Adam Franchino is a Lead Art Handler and Mount Maker at the Walters Art Museum, located in the heart of Baltimore City. As a mount maker, Adam is often one of the last people to handle artwork before it’s displayed. Using brass, steel, and other materials, he creates custom mounts that hold and support the museum’s collection, making it possible for the public to enjoy the art safely.

“I really do believe I have the best job in the city,” Adam says. “I get to work with our conservation team and so many talented designers. I love being able to problem-solve and bring new visions to life.”

Adam joined the Walters team six years ago, looking for a more stable schedule that would better fit the needs of his growing family and still allow him to continue his craft. “But like many museum workers, I took a pay cut to do the work I love,” he says. “Before we unionized, I was working side jobs and selling things just to make ends meet and support my family.”

After nearly two years of contract negotiations, workers at the Walters Art Museum secured their first historic union contract this past July. “I was blown away by what we won,” Adam says. “We secured meaningful wage increases and parental leave — two things my coworkers and I had been fighting for over the years. In 2022, when my daughter was born, I took six weeks of unpaid leave to be there for my family. I still remember how hard that time was for us. Thanks to our union, no one else will have to go through that again.”

Adam and his coworkers experienced firsthand the power of organizing together for a better workplace. “If I could give advice to anyone thinking about starting a union, I’d tell them: don’t underestimate the power of a collective voice. Organizing your workplace gives you a real say in how decisions get made.”