Why Union?

Do You Have What It Takes to be Elite?

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
Unions were built on the idea that when workers band together in solidarity their voices are heard, and action is taken on issues that matter to them. Union workers negotiate contracts together to achieve the best interests of the collective.

HIGHER WAGES, REDUCED INCOME INEQUALITY
According to the Economic Policy Institute, on average, union workers earn 10.2% more in wages than non-union peers working in the same industry, with the same level of education and experience. Unions also reduce gender and racial wage gaps: Female union workers earn 4.7% more on average than non-union peers, black union workers earn 13.1% more, and Hispanic union workers are paid 18.8% more than non-union peers.

BETTER BENEFITS
More than 90% of union workers are covered by employer-sponsored health insurance, and union employers are more likely to offer matching retirement plans than non-union employers. Union workers are also more likely to have paid vacation and paid sick days.

INCREASED WORKPLACE SAFETY
In the construction industry nothing is more important than safety. Workplace safety regulations and guidelines largely exist thanks to unions, who worked hard to establish the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.

A STRONGER ECONOMY
Areas with a higher density of union jobs tend to have higher wages and better benefits for non-union workers as well. This is because non-union employers must raise their standards to attract and retain employees. Unionized workers make more money, which means they have more money to spend in local economies. And research indicates union workers and their families use fewer government-funded public benefits.

DIVERSE REPRESENTATION
Unions stand for inclusion and equal opportunity, representing workers of all genders, races, ethnicities, and levels of education.

Are You Elite?

• Drive, determination and a willingness to learn

• On time and responsible

• Functional math and mechanical skills

• Able to communicate effectively and work in a team environment

• Good hand-eye coordination, spatial/form perception and manual dexterity

• High school diploma/GED

• Reliable transportation