FROM A LEGAL VIEWPOINT

Maybe you’ve read all you care to about our current economic condition or the impact it is having on our members. If so, I suppose you have already set this newsletter down and have maybe turned on the T.V. But chances are that the T.V. is full of the same topic. Yes – it’s inescapable. It’s everywhere and our reactions to the situation are as unique as each of you reading this article.

When we face troubles of this size, we have to recognize that much is beyond our control. That realization is a burden lifted in itself, but it doesn’t mean we do nothing. So where can we begin? Let’s look at the Union as an organization first.

Over 115 years ago Sidney and Beatrice Webb published the History of Trade Unionism (1894). Their predominant view was that a trade union “…is a continuous association of wage earners for the purpose of maintaining or improving the conditions of their employment.” This definition was appropriate and timely, because two years later, in 1896, the International Union of Operating Engineers was formed. Ever since, the Union’s core mission has been to serve the common interest of its members. More than ever, I think it is fair to say these interests are steady employment and acceptable standards. So how can the Union maximize these goals?

Communicate

Local 49 understands that jobs are the top priority. We are communicating daily with project owners, general contractors, other Locals and elected officials. We are delivering and repeating the same message: Operating Engineers Need Work Now. Some might grow tired of our drum beat, but anybody in a decision-making role is our target audience. We remain visible and vigilant in order to increase the work opportunities for our members.

Attend to Contractors too!

It’s true that we have partnership relations with some of our union contractors, while others still believe the Union is the enemy. But we hold true to our founders’ principles to “try all just means to promote harmonious relations with our employers….” (By-Laws, pg. 1).

These are not empty slogans. Union contractors must succeed if they are to employ our members. Since we want steady employment, our contractors usually welcome any help we can provide to ensure that they are getting jobs and operating successfully. However, this does not mean that we stand by if an employer is trying to get ahead at the expense of the worker. Our contract is the foundation of the relationship and that is where we achieve acceptable standards. We expect the Union employers to honor the contract and respect the workers. In turn, the Union must do all it can to help the contractor succeed.

Gain Political Influence

Here I where some member’s eyes gloss over. Others might just quit reading. But we need to constantly state our purpose here. Local 49 must be effective and influential in politics to maximize jobs for our members. The vast majority of our members earn a living by building, repairing or maintaining the public’s infrastructure. Public dollars fund all public infrastructure jobs. These jobs require contractors and sub-contractors who, in turn, hire many of our members. The trail is simple: politics = jobs.

Organize

The greater the percentage is of unionized contractors that work in our area, the greater the number of our members that will find steady employment. This alone is why organizing in our industry is key. But as we know, this is no easy task. It is an endeavor that requires market analysis, client appraisal, value assessment, and follow-through. In other words, what is out there? What is needed? What is valued? And, how are we doing? Organizing is probably the biggest challenge facing Unions in the last 40 years and it never ends.

What can the individual member do to improve the outlook?

Educate

Learn the true reasons jobs are being held up, funds are being cut off and layoffs are being ordered. The wisest man knows that his knowledge is limited. So investigate about your career. Ask questions about your industry. Check websites that explain the status and potential of regional projects. Talk to Union Business Representatives about the work outlook. Most importantly, attend your area Local 49 meeting every month.

Sharpen Skills

Whatever your work skills, you can always improve or broaden them. Utilize classes and training at Local 49’s training center to bring greater value to the job site. Don’t ever rest on what used to work – expand your opportunities by expanding your abilities. A hard-working operator who is reliable and versatile will have a much greater chance at gaining steady employment than one who believes himself to be a unique specialist.

Get Political

Your jobs and industry depend on the elected officials who understand construction. The politicians that we support believe in community infrastructure, successful projects and fair living standards. They put people ahead of profits when business grows greedy. But they also know the value of local businesses that hire and buy locally. These are the elected officials that need your support. Study the issues; register to vote; and, exercise your voice in supporting those that support you.