IATSE LOCAL 18
The Union Behind Entertainment
MILWAUKEE, WI
History
The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) represents the skilled professionals who power the entertainment industry behind the scenes. From live events and theatrical productions to motion pictures, television, trade shows, wardrobe, broadcast, and animation, IATSE members help bring productions and experiences to life across the United States and Canada.
Today, more than 170,000 entertainment workers are represented through IATSE, working in virtually every area of live entertainment, media production, exhibitions, concerts, and related support industries. The organization was founded in 1893 when stagehands from eleven cities came together in New York to advocate for fair wages, safer working conditions, and professional standards for workers in the entertainment industry.
More than 360 local unions operate throughout the United States and Canada, organized by geographic regions and specialized crafts. Each local union functions independently, maintaining its own leadership, bylaws, membership structure, and democratic processes while supporting the broader mission of the International organization.
Through collective representation, training, safety initiatives, and negotiated labor agreements, IATSE continues to strengthen and support careers throughout the entertainment industry.
IATSE Local 18 has proudly represented entertainment industry professionals in the Milwaukee region for more than a century. Originally chartered in the National Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees on July 20, 1894, Local 18 later became an official member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees of the United States and Canada on July 24, 1902.
As organized labor continued to grow throughout Wisconsin, Local 18 strengthened its role within the labor movement. On May 2, 1903, the Local was admitted to representation within the Wisconsin Federation of Labor, followed by admission to the Wisconsin AFL-CIO on July 23, 1958.
From historic theaters to modern live productions, concerts, conventions, and events, generations of Local 18 members have contributed their skill, professionalism, and dedication to the entertainment industry throughout Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin.
Today, Local 18 continues its commitment to supporting members through advocacy, training, workplace protections, and professional representation while carrying forward a legacy built on solidarity, craftsmanship, and pride in the work behind the scenes.
LOCAL LEADERSHIP
Guided by dedicated professionals committed to the interests of our Milwaukee entertainment community.
IATSE Local 18 Officers
President- William McClaren
President Emeritus- Michael Griebl
Vice-President- Joseph Adam
Secretary/Treasurer- James Luljak
Business Manager/Financial Secretary- Anthony Puglielli
Sergeant at Arms- Anna Janicek
Executive Board
Craig Broemser
Seth Hallett
Natalie Heaton
Daniel Kampa
Local 18 Trustees
James Braun
Benjamin Hague
Dale Kalinowski
MTSE Benefit Fund Trustees
James Luljak
Kate McSorley
LOCAL COMMITTEES
Dedicated members serve and support the continued success of Local 18.
IATSE LOCAL 18 COMMITTEES
Communications Committee
N. Heaton – Chair
E. Acker
C. Geddes
K. Luljak
Examining Committee
K. Turner – Training Coordinator – Chair
J. Adam and B. Miller– Audio
P. Gegenhuber – Carpentry
B. Jostsons – Fly Rail
D. Mroch- Rigging
D. Steidl – Properties
R. Shultz – Electrics
K. Turner – Video
Judiciary Committee
C. Broemser - Co-Chair
S. Hallett - Co-Chair
B. Jostens
K. Justus
C. Mesko
Political Coordinator
J. Pruzin
R. Schultz
Strategic Planning Committee
A. Puglielli - Chair
W. McClaren
K. McSorley
Training Committee
J. Adam - Co-Chair
D. Kampa - Co-Chair
B. Jostens
R. Layman
D. Mroch
R. Sharon
K. Shires
K. Turner
R. Zentner
LOCAL STAFF
Dedicated staff supporting daily operations and continued success of Local 18.
IATSE LOCAL 18 STAFF
Anthony Puglielli
Business Manager/ Financial Secretary
E: tony@stagehandsmke.com
O: (414) 635-1562
Jackie Sunn
Accountant & Payroll Manager
E: Jackie@stagehandsmke.com
O: (414) 272-3540 Ext. 1
Kate McSorley
Administrative & Benefits Manager
E: Kate@stagehandsmke.com
O: (414) 272-3540 Ext. 4
Dispatch
O: (414) 272-3540 Ext 3