ABOUT JOSEPH & BERNARD
Joseph DiTomo
Joseph DiTomo is a seasoned construction professional with over 30 years of dedicated experience in Bricklayers and Allied Craftsmen Local #1 in Philadelphia. As a third-generation member of this union, which has been a cornerstone of his family’s legacy, Joseph has contributed to some of Philadelphia’s most prominent projects, following in the footsteps of his father, Bernard DiTomo.
Joseph began his career as a Tile Finisher and steadily advanced through the ranks as an Apprentice, Setter, and Foreman. In 2021, he became the Head Tile Instructor at the Local #1 Training Center, where he has used his skills to educate and inspire the next generation of craftsmen. Known for his outstanding interpersonal skills and professional demeanor, Joseph is a natural leader with the ability to manage projects independently or collaborate effectively within a team.
As an instructor, Joseph has expanded his expertise by achieving some of the industry’s highest certifications. His dedication to excellence has strengthened both his technical knowledge and his commitment to the trade.
Beyond his technical and professional contributions, Joseph is a passionate advocate for community welfare, working with the District Attorney’s Office, county councils, and multiple behavioral health organizations to address issues such as recidivism, addiction, alcoholism
Bernard Griggs Jr.
Bernard Griggs Jr. has dedicated over four decades to the construction industry, including 21 years as a full-time union labor leader representing workers in the field. A PCC Journeyman by trade, Bernard has been a member of the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union Local #1 of Pennsylvania/Delaware for 29 years. In January 2000, he made history as the Local’s first full-time Representative of color, supporting 2,500 union members. He continued to break ground in February 2003, becoming a Business Representative for the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council, which represents 44 construction unions and over 80,000 members.
During his 18-year tenure with the Building Trades Council, Bernard helped secure Project Labor Agreements for major construction projects valued at over $4.5 billion, fostering union jobs and spearheading diversity and inclusion initiatives in the workforce. He also coordinated volunteer labor contributions by Building Trades unions to assist various nonprofit projects, including renovations for housing for homeless veterans, playgrounds for special needs children, and facilities for cancer centers and veterans’ organizations.
In July 2020, Bernard was appointed as Bucks County’s first-ever Project and Diversity Officer. In this role, he oversees county capital projects, ensuring adherence to labor standards and fostering a comprehensive diversity and inclusion program in partnership with the county’s Human Resources and Law Departments.
Bernard has been active on multiple boards and committees, including:
• Pennsylvania Commissioner of the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission
• Temple University Executive Oversight Committee
• Bucks County Responsible Contractor Study Group
• Montgomery County Strategic Economic Development Policy Task Force
• Montgomery County Development Corporation Board
• Executive Board of the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists
He has been recognized with numerous awards, such as:
• 2013 NAACP Bucks County Branch Pioneer Award
• 2015 Montgomery County Democratic Committee Bob Cooper Labor Leader of The Year Award
• 2015 Jack Costello Boxing Club Award
Bernard, his wife, and their two daughters live in Chalfont, Bucks County.
VISION FOR THE UNION
Empowerment Through Unity
Joseph DiTomo & Bernard Griggs Jr.'s mission is to foster an environment where every member of the Local #1 Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (PA & DE) has equal opportunities, competitive wages, and access to resources essential for their growth and success. His commitment to unity and equality drives his efforts to create a thriving and supportive union.
Explore Joseph and Bernard's comprehensive strategy for advancing the union and the array of services he aims to provide for the betterment of its hardworking members.
