The Union Difference

BAC members know that when we come together as a union to bargain for higher wages, better benefits, and safer working conditions we are a stronger force for good in our industry and our communities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, on average, workers across all industries who are members of a labor union make 18% more than their non-union counterparts, and in construction that difference is often larger. BAC provides each member an opportunity to advance their skills, their career, and live their best life. That is the “Union Difference.” What makes this ‘union difference’ possible?

The three essential activities that enable unions to deliver the services that members expect and deserve are organizing, collective bargaining, and enforcement/ representation. After workers organize, they bargain collectively with their employers and sign contracts. Members then work under their contracts, making sure they are enforced with union representatives. Success requires that unions continually and actively carry out these three functions in unison.

The core of any union begins with organizing. Our ability to negotiate with an employer or an association is dependent on our ability to provide, or when needed withhold, skilled labor to achieve a just contract that meets the needs of the workers that BAC represents. News in Brief features two of the recent organizing campaigns that BAC local unions have been involved in. While each campaign progressed in unique ways, the common thread amongst both was the willingness of workers to assert their right to join a union to exercise their collective voice on the job.

Jobsite safety has been a focus for BAC as long as our union has been in existence, and it is often one of the primary concerns raised by those workers employed by the non-union contractors that BAC seeks to organize. There are many aspects to safety on the job, but the rise of heat-related illnesses these past several years has been pronounced, particularly with many areas of the US and Canada experiencing extreme temperatures this summer. BAC will remain engaged on this and all other age-related issues to improve conditions on jobsites across our industry. 

BAC prides itself on our members’ skills and the resources we dedicate to ensuring that the next generation of craftworkers is ready to meet our industry’s needs. Our training programs, and just as importantly BAC craftworkers on the job, are essential to mentoring that next generation, many who come to our union from less conventional pathways. Of course, our signatory contractors are vital partners in building that next generation of skilled craftworkers, and we place great value on those long-standing partnerships.

We also value those elected public leaders who stand with BAC. That is why in June the BAC Executive Board joined the AFL-CIO and other labor unions in endorsing the re-election of President Biden. He actively promotes and supports union organizing, registered apprenticeship, fair wages and benefits for construction work, safe working conditions on the job, and the security and dignity of a defined retirement benefit plan. His proven track record in backing BAC members, and all working families, has earned our support.

Brothers and Sisters: Stay healthy, stay safe, and stay cool!