On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, two representatives from the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399—Business Agent Pat O'Gorman and Organizer Jesus Ramirez—shared insights into the Local’s efforts to organize in Chicago’s labor landscape. Local 399 represents over 10,000 skilled maintenance employees working across hospitals, hotels, schools and more throughout Illinois and Indiana. The discussion focused on the union’s diverse jurisdiction, educational pathways for the trades, the realities of recruiting young workers and highlights from a major organizing campaign at Advocate Healthcare.
IUOE Local 399 encompasses a diverse range of maintenance roles in both public and private sectors, including building operations and mechanical systems at facilities such as hospitals, data centers and government complexes. O'Gorman explained how the union is divided between hoisting and portable operators, as well as stationary engineers, with Local 399 on the stationary side. He added that the Local is also recognized for its robust HVAC training program, partnering with a Chicago community college to create educational opportunities that lead to associate and advanced degrees. O’Gorman said this approach challenges the traditional notion that skilled trades are only for those not seeking higher education, placing career development and lifelong advancement at the center of the union’s mission.
Recruiting younger members into the trades is an ongoing challenge, especially in light of rising student debt and persistent social pressures to pursue college degrees. O'Gorman described his own journey, emphasizing regret over the accumulation of student loans compared to the value of his career in the trades. To address this, Local 399 actively engages with Chicago public schools and community colleges by participating in career fairs, encouraging students to consider vocational paths that offer financial stability and growth. O’Gorman said this outreach aims to shift perceptions and demonstrate that entering a skilled trade through the union is not just a job, but a viable and rewarding career for life.
Finally, Ramirez discussed the organizing campaign at Advocate Healthcare, which he said showcases the harsh reality of unionizing efforts in today’s healthcare industry. Ramirez, who transitioned from non-union to union work, detailed his personal journey and ongoing work organizing over 500 skilled maintenance workers across several hospitals. Both Ramirez and O'Gorman stated that Advocate Healthcare employed anti-union tactics, including firing workers, objecting to election results and exploiting delays in the National Labor Relations Board’s process. Despite these obstacles, the union is committed to supporting workers who seek fair pay, safe working conditions and a stronger voice on the job.
For more from O’Gorman and Ramirez and the work being done by IUOE Local 399, listen to the full episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast above.
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