Brian Nathan

Brian Nathan served in the U.S. Navy from 2003 to 2008. He attended Hillsborough Community College and earned a bachelor's degree in philosophy and sociology from the University of Tampa. Nathan's career experience includes serving as an electrician, assistant business manager, and lead organizer at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Nathan has also served on CareerSource Tampa Bay and the City of Tampa workforce development board.[1][2]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I served in the United States Navy as a Cryptologist for six years. During my enlistment, I was stationed at Corry Station in Pensacola, Florida and then onboard the USS MASON (DDG-87) and the USS CARR (FFG-25).

When I separated from the Navy in 2008, my wife, Tonia, and I settled in Tampa. We both attended the University of Tampa on the Post 9/11 GI Bill. I then joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 915 in 2016 where I completed a five year apprenticeship program. There I found my calling as a Journeyman Wireman with the IBEW.

In the union, my family has had fantastic health insurance, a solid middle class lifestyle, and three pensions so my wife and I could retire in dignity. The opportunity to serve my local union came when I was elected to the Executive Board. I then joined the staff as an Assistant Business Manager and Lead Organizer. I have been able to share the same opportunity I had with others to stand with workers in my industry and show them that life is better in a union.

After serving as an IBEW Organizer and Labor Leader, I have been involved in protecting workers on both sides of Tampa Bay. I have worked with members of both City Councils and serve on CareerSource Tampa Bay as well as Mayor Castor’s Workforce Development Board.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Workers are the foundation of Florida. They pave our roads, build our schools, teach our children, and keep the lights on in our homes. They are the reason our state is such an amazing place to live. Protecting workers and making sure that every Floridian earns a fair wage for a day’s work on a safe jobsite is the cornerstone of my campaign.We must be able to afford to live in the communities in which we work. All Floridians ought to be able to buy a house and afford to stay in it while working one good job. This is a basic tenant of the American Dream that is currently out of reach for too many families. I will fight to make homeownership and cost of living manageable for the working class.The government closest to the people serves the people best. This used to be a guiding principle in Tallahassee, but now politicians undermine our local elected officials at every turn. Returning home rule to our cities and counties is the first step in solving the problems affecting the diverse communities in Florida, from the Panhandle to the Everglades.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am personally passionate about workforce development, labor protections, and housing affordability. I believe that expanding access to registered apprenticeships and vocational training is the most effective way to build a strong middle class. I am also committed to addressing the property insurance crisis and ensuring that our local infrastructure keeps pace with the rapid growth of our state.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Luis Viera (Tampa City Council), Rob Kriete (President, Hillsborough County Teachers Association), Stephanie Yocum (President, Polk Education Association), Vote Vets, Engage Y'all, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 915, International Brotherhood of electrical Workers 349, Ironworkers 397, Florida AFL-CIO, Hillsborough County Democratic Veteran's Caucus, Hillsborough County Labor Caucus, Hillsborough County Democratic LGBTQ+ Caucus, Democratic Public Education Caucus of Florida