Any IBEW members on here?

[jwitten82]

Should I make the jump from open shop to Union?

 

[nightrain]

Should I make the jump from open shop to Union?

Depends on a lot of factors. I have worked with and know many Local 3 members here in NY. Many shops in this territory have to take mandatory furlough of about 8 weeks annually. They call it a workshare program and it is usually implemented when there is not enough work to keep all members working for 52 weeks.

They make good money, have good benefits and get a pension from the Union. The furloughs are tough on the members, but they seem to cope by taking vacation and doing side work. They maintain their medical benefits through the furloughs.

 

[rags747]

Depends on a lot of factors. I have worked with and know many Local 3 members here in NY. Many shops in this territory have to take mandatory furlough of about 8 weeks annually. They call it a workshare program and it is usually implemented when there is not enough work to keep all members working for 52 weeks.

They make good money, have good benefits and get a pension from the Union. The furloughs are tough on the members, but they seem to cope by taking vacation and doing side work. They maintain their medical benefits through the furloughs.

Why wouldn’t the Union just not carry as many members? Let the old die off or retire and not replace, No?

 

[nightrain]

Why wouldn’t the Union just not carry as many members? Let the old die off or retire and not replace, No?

I would have to guess that they want to maximize their numbers ($dues) while still being able to keep guys working for the majority of the year.