Syd Hyer, Vice President and Executive Board member of the Park City Professional Ski Patrollers Association, discussed the ongoing efforts to unionize the bike patrol at Park City Mountain. Hyer outlined the reasons behind the unionization push, the current status of the process and the support from existing unions.
The bike patrol employees, many of whom are also winter ski patrollers, are seeking union representation to address issues such as summer wages and recognition for their skilled work. Hyer explained that bike patrol staff perform dangerous tasks requiring medical certifications and specialized skills, similar to their winter counterparts. He said the unionization effort aims to secure better compensation and protections for these workers, reflecting the value of their expertise and the risks they face.
Currently, the National Labor Relations Board has acknowledged the bike patrol's petition to unionize. An upcoming vote will determine whether the union will be ratified. Hyer expressed optimism about the vote's outcome but noted potential challenges, such as the requirement for in-person voting within a limited timeframe. The Park City Professional Ski Patrollers Association has been actively involved in supporting the bike patrol's unionization efforts, providing guidance and advice throughout the process, he said.
The push for unionization has garnered local media attention and support from larger unions such as the Communication Workers of America. Hyer emphasized the importance of collective action for outdoor recreation workers, encouraging them to advocate for themselves and transform seasonal jobs into sustainable careers. He said the unionization effort follows the successful actions of the winter ski patrol union and represents a growing trend of workers in the outdoor industry seeking better working conditions and compensation.
To hear more about the Park City bike patrol's unionization efforts, listen to the full episode featuring Syd Hyer on the America's Work Force Union Podcast.