Organizing results in growth of Central Ohio building trades unions

Dorsey Hager, Executive Secretary for the Columbus/Central Ohio Buildings and Construction Trade Council, joined the show and discussed organizing non-union construction workers,  larger registered apprenticeship classes and the City of Columbus’ Community Benefits Agreement Committee.

Central Ohio is a hotbed for unions to organize non-union construction workers, Hager said. When many non-union construction workers learn about the opportunities offered by a career in the union construction industry, they realize it is a chance to improve their lives. Depending on their skillset, those being organized by C/COBCTC affiliated Local Unions are either joining the industry as an apprentice or, if they test out, as journeymen. As union members, Hager emphasized they will earn higher wages and receive better benefits than those offered by most non-union contractors. 

He also explained how the region’s long-term construction forecast has led most affiliated Local Unions to increase the number of apprentices in their registered apprenticeship programs. The work outlook calls for an increased need for skilled construction workers. Since some JATCs are doubling the size of their programs, they are also expanding their training centers in order to accommodate the larger classes. 

Finally, Hager discussed the City of Columbus’ Community Benefits Agreement Committee who is tasked with evaluating the City’s CBAs and making recommendations for future agreements. 

Listen to the entire episode to learn more about these topics.