There's always an incredible demand for construction workers. For example, over 418,659 welders work in the United States, according to Zippia. Everyone wants to ensure they're being paid and treated fairly, which is why many are part of a union - in this case, a field construction union. Here's what this union is and what its purpose is:

Group Structure

Each union has a specific number of members. They also may be split up among specialties, like welders being in one union and pavers in another. No matter the group, each has delegates who negotiate for the wider group. In addition to these delegates, there is an overarching structure for leadership as well. For many in a field construction union, they can look to their president or vice president for advice and advocacy. Internal elections decide who will lead for the term.

Safe Work Conditions and Fair Wages

There's no denying that construction can be dangerous. The workers use equipment that, if not handled right, can injure them or worse. Their job can also require them to go up great heights and unfortunately, there's no safety net at the bottom. That means that they need to have the safest conditions possible and the best equipment. Their field construction union regularly negotiates with management to keep those conditions and also to pay them fair wages. By standing together and making these requests, it ensures that all members of the union are treated fairly for their work.

Job Openings

The union looks to serve its members not just in the present, but in the future as well. Many union members find their next contract through channels that the union creates. They negotiate to have a number of jobs open at a construction site. In addition, union members may have priority in hiring. It ensures that union members are taken care of, not just by being hired but making sure there are no workman shortages.

In the past, management often saw the workers as expendable and easily replaced. Today, unions strive to prevent that from ever happening again. Unionizing gives power back to the workers. That way, they can do the best possible work in the safest conditions. Are you interested in learning more about a field construction union? At Boilermakers Local 107, we provide the education, advocacy, community, and tools for success that any construction professional needs. Contact us today!