LAKE ELSINORE, CA – Today, the Oliver Unaka campaign announced it has received the official endorsement of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), District Council 36. Representing thousands of skilled tradespeople across Southern California, District Council 36 joins a growing coalition of labor and community leaders backing Unaka for the Riverside County Board of Education, Trustee Area 1.

The IUPAT District Council 36 is known for its advocacy of fair wages, worker safety, and robust vocational training—values that align with Unaka’s career-long commitment to expanding educational opportunities and workforce development.

"I am deeply honored to have the support of the hardworking men and women of IUPAT District Council 36," said Oliver Unaka. "The trades are the backbone of our economy, and our schools must do more to ensure every student has a clear pathway to a high-paying, dignified career. Whether that path leads to a university or a specialized apprenticeship, I am committed to ensuring Riverside County students are prepared for the workforce of tomorrow."

This endorsement highlights the bridge Unaka has built between educational excellence and the local workforce. During his tenure managing bond measures for the Inglewood and Pomona Unified School Districts, Unaka secured nearly $500 million in funding—a direct investment that modernized crumbling classrooms for students while ensuring high-quality, prevailing-wage jobs for local tradespeople. 

"Our campaign is about building a future where every child in Trustee Area 1 has the resources they need to thrive," Unaka continued. "Having District Council 36 standing with us reinforces our mission to champion both academic excellence and vocational strength."

The election for the Riverside County Board of Education, Trustee Area 1, will take place on June 2, 2026. For more information about the campaign, please visit www.voteunaka.com.

About Oliver Unaka

Oliver Unaka is a longtime resident of Eastvale. With decades of experience in higher education and K-12 governance, he is running for the Riverside County Board of Education to prioritize student success, fiscal accountability, and expanded career technical education. He currently serves as a member of the California State Bar Association Board.

About IUPAT District Council 36

The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 36 represents over 11,000 men and women in various specialized trades, including painting, glazing, floor covering, and drywall finishing. They are dedicated to improving the lives of their members through collective bargaining, safety training, and community engagement.