CISCO’s Hall of Fame Inductees – A Legacy of Excellence and Dedication to the Union Construction Trades
February 7, 2025
BURR RIDGE – CISCO honored two Union powerhouses – Kina McAfee and Maurice King, during its Jan. 31, 2025 Annual Meeting as its FIRST inductees into CISCO’s Hall of Fame. These incredible individuals are retiring this summer after successful careers in their respective trades and after shaping the future of hundreds of Apprentices through their leadership, mentorship and advocacy.
During the induction ceremony, Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council (MACRC) Executive Secretary-Treasurer Kevin McLaughlin expressed his deep admiration for McAfee’s impact on young Apprentices, saying he was truly honored to share his thoughts on McAfee, who has made a deep impact in the Union Carpenters industry.
McAfee is MACRC’s Training Program Assistant Coordinator, and in that role, McLaughlin said she exemplifies what it means to be a leader and an expert in her field. “Her unrivaled skill and extensive knowledge are matched only by her genuine, approachable, and welcoming nature, making her an invaluable asset to our team,” McLaughlin explained.
“Through her wholehearted commitment to training the next generation of carpenters, Kina has equipped her Apprentices not just with technical expertise but has also instilled in them professionalism and integrity— values that define the very foundation of our Union. Her impact goes far beyond the classroom, as she continues to foster relationships that strengthen the Regional Council’s standing in the community,” he said.
Whether collaborating with local organizations or working alongside elected officials, McAfee’s efforts have helped open doors and build lasting partnerships, which benefit both the Union and the broader community. “Kina’s efforts have helped open doors and build partnerships that benefit us all. Please join me in showing a heartfelt appreciation to Kina for her outstanding contribution to leadership,” McLaughlin added.
While McLaughlin’s words were heartfelt and serious, when MACRC’s Apprentice & Training Program JATC Director Craig Triplett spoke, he broke the silence by joking he thought the Hall of Fame induction was a Roast, and had instead prepared light-hearted material for that. “Obviously this isn’t a Roast, so I’ll instead explain that the heartfelt feeling she has for our Apprentices, the dedication she shows for this job, and for the youth she is teaching – is second to none,” Triplett said.
McAfee’s role as MACRC’s Training Program Assistant Coordinator allows her to play a critical role in preparing the younger generations to step into the shoes of retiring Union members. As Triplett noted, “I couldn’t have a better person talking to our youth than Kina McAfee.”
Affectionately referred to her as Miss Mac, she is no stranger to issues and conflicts with Apprentices, but is always available to lend an ear and to work out issues. “While Kina is extremely strict with Apprentices, she’s also extremely fair. When she talks with them, she sets them straight, Triplett explained.
With McAfee set to retire in July 2025, her absence will be deeply felt by her colleagues and students alike. Triplett said, “It’s going to be a tremendous loss for us in July, and we wish her well in her retirement. She’s been a terrific friend for 18 years, and we’re all going to miss her.”
CISCO’s second inductee into its Hall of Fame was Chicago-based IBEW Local 134 Vice President Maurice King, who is also a CISCO Executive Board member and past President and Vice President. Fellow IBEW Local 134 Business Manager/Financial Secretary and friend Don Finn, said King’s unwavering dedication to Local 134 and the Union industry as a whole has made an undeniable impact on lives.
King is IBEW Local 134’s Vice President and IBEW-NECA Technical Institute‘s Assistant Director, and in that role, Finn said King has been, “a pillar of the IBEW Union. He has kicked ass for organizing Labor,” Finn said in his introductions. “Mo actively engages in community outreach and education for youth in schools. His influence extends beyond the classroom, helping to inspire and shape future generations of electricians and Labor leaders.
Unsure what King’s retirement plans were, Finn took King to breakfast where he quickly realized King had everything planned out. “He’s going to Vegas, where he has a house. And he’s going to play pickleball, and golf. I said, ‘That’s awesome!’”
While King transitions into a well-earned retirement, his legacy within the Union will remain. His mentorship has changed countless lives, whether it be Apprentices, journey people, foremen, or general foremen alike. Speaking directly to King, Finn made sure he realized the impact he’s made. “Whether you believe it or not Maurice, you have changed lives. Local 134 organized Labor is all good because of you. I love you.”
McAfee and King’s Hall of Fame induction is a fitting tribute to both of their careers, where they were dedicated to excellence, mentorship and leadership. Their contributions will continue to shape the Carpenters Union and IBEW Union for generations to come, ensuring their legacy endures long after their well-earned retirement.
