I worked for a Buick dealer for several years, then for the county transit system. Both of these were International Association of Machinists Union shops, mandatory at the dealer, optional at the county.
In my opinion, the Union is necessary, but it is only as strong as the members make it.
Here's one horror story.
Under the contract at the dealer, every June 1st we were provided a raise, generally 25-50 cents per hour, maybe a couple bucks thrown into the pension plan and some dollars towards a medical / dental plan. Also the schedule for vacations ran from June 1st through the following May 31st.
So the vacation you earned at $10 in the year preceeding when you took it after June 1st it was paid at $10.50 an hour, the wage you were currently earning. Made life easy. Well the dealers accountant had the owner cut checks for vacation accured and handed to the mechanics on May 31st at the lower rate one year. We went to the shop steward and he spoke with the service manager, we didn't win out because there were only a few of us that complained. The majority were quite happy with their windfall and spent it on TVs, bills etc. During the course of the year they didn't have money to take vacations like a week in Moab because they couldn't afford to take off work without pay (they had spent it already).
Next May 1st the checks came out again and this time there were more folks who complained, but this time the owner said No dice, you accepted it last year. Well it came down to have the business rep come in and get it straightened out.
two things from the above scenario, strength in numbers when you stick together and having a spokesman (rep) who can't suffer daily reprecussions.
Another one;
The Chevy dealer across the street went non-Union, wouldn't sign a contract. The owner offered higher wages than we were getting and the same benefits, except through private insurance not the trust program. The mechanics of course were in debt with mortgages, and car & boat payments. They readily accepted and decided to go non-union. Over the course of the next two years the retirement stopped, hours were extended, medical was cut as were holidays. Most quit, our shop business increased and that dealer eventually went out of business.
At the county joining the union is optional. I remained a member (still pay dues even though I have been recalled to the military for four years), they represent me when I get called on the carpet providing legal assistance.
Unions are a necessary evil, paying Union dues is a pain in the rear. However, the retirement system and other benefits through the Union are better. Most of us do not have the correct discipline to invest the money for retirement wisely and religiously and having that money taken out and put into a trust fund is a good thing. When I turn 55 the pension will be $600 a month by today's dollars, doesn't sound like much but I only worked there a limited time, but it's there.
Just my opinion.
Good luck,
Tom
