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Brotherhood Members Focus on Training, Politics, Activism
CARPENTER Brotherhood Members Focus on Training, Politics, Activism 2011 ITC : A Decade of Success | 14 CARPENTERS.ORG ‘McCarron Team’ Re-Elected | 18 BL-14 7.25x9.5C 3/2/11 9:40 PM Page 1 ADVERTISEMENT NEW SPORTS TECHNOLOGY New electronic lure may catch too many fish; one state bans it. Blinks blood red to mimic an injured prey. A bass every seven minutes in test. YALESVILLE, CT – A new fishing technology that set a record for catching bass in Mexico is now showing its stuff in the U. S. It has out-fished shrimp bait in Washington State and beat top-selling U. S. lures three to one in Florida. The new technology is so effective by Mike Butler one state, Wyoming, has banned its use. The breakthrough is a tiny, batterypowered electrical system that flashes a blood-red light down a lure’s tail when its moved in water. Fish think it’s an injured prey and strike. Some fishing authorities, like those in Wyoming, think that gives fishermen too much of an advantage. They may be right. Three fishermen using a flashing lure in Mexico caught 650 large-mouth bass in just 25 hours. That’s a bass every seven minutes for each person, and a record for the lake they were fishing. They said the bass struck with such ferocity they hardly lost a strike. In Florida two professionals fished for four hours from the same boat. One used a flashing-red lure; the other used some top-selling U. S. lures. The new, “bleeding” lure caught three times as many fish. Blinks Blinks blood blood red red U.S. and international patents pending New technology uses a blinking red light to create appearance of a live, bleeding prey. Triggers a genetic strike response in fish. Then I phoned an ichthyologist (fish expert) for his opinion. “Predators - lions, sharks,” he said, “will always go for the most vulnerable prey. Fish are predators, so if a fish sees a smaller fish bleeding, it knows it’s weakened and will strike. There’s a Works when others don’t Three fishermen in Washington State used a popular lure baited with shrimp and caught nothing after fishing three hours in cold wea ther. One of them tried a flashing lure he was asked to test and 30 minutes later caught a thirty-pound steelhead. A Tournament fisherman on a lake in Florida tried everything in his tackle box and had no bites. He switched to a flashing lure and caught a bass on his first cast, and had his limit in 45 minutes. Before reporting this, I asked a veteran fisherman in my office for his opinion. Monday morning he charged into my office yelling “I caught six monster fish in an hour with this thing! Where did you get it?” New lure flashes blood red to attract fish. Blinks a different presentation each cast. survival program built into predators that says ‘Grab a meal when you can. It may be a while before the next one.’ “If a lure could appear to be a live, bleeding fish, a few fishermen could probably empty a lake with it.” I told him three almost did. Different presentations Because the technology reacts to move- ment, every retrieval generates a different kind of flash; so if a fish passes on your first cast, it sees a new presentation on your next one, and so on. The technology is so new I could find only one distributor in the U. S. that offers a finished product. It’s called Bite Light® and has several international patents pending. It comes in a kit of three. There is a U.S. company that offers a kit of three blinking lures (one each for shallow, middle and deep water) called the Bite Light® Each lure is a different color. They work in fresh or salt water, contain rattle attractants inside and last 300 hours in the water. I suggest you cast one near some structure. If there’s a largemouth dozing there, based on what I’ve seen and heard, it’s a sure catch. One kit of three Bite Lights® costs $29.95, two or more kits cost $25.00 each. Each kit has the same three models, but in different colors: S/h is only $7.00 no matter how many kits you buy. To order, go to www.fishingtechtoday .com or call 1-800-873-4415 anytime or day and ask for the Bite Light® lure (Item # kbl). Or send your name, address and a check (or cc and exp. date) to NGC Sports (Dept. BL-284), 60 Church Street, Yalesville, CT 06492. The company gives your money back, if you don’t catch more fish and return your purchase within 30-days. BL-14 © NGC Worldwide, Inc. 2011 Dept. BL-284 Union Driven... …And Organized at Or Ca de rp r en N te ow rs .o rg Keep your cargo in check with this great UBC gear! Eliminate Trunk Junk Sturdy Trunk Organizer boasts a trio of compartments to hold tools, clothes, and more. Can be quickly secured to prevent sliding. Folds for easy storing. Adorned with a printed UBC emblem. 34" long x 14" wide x 10.5" tall. $39 - FS570 Union Made! On The Go Made with strong and sturdy construction, this convenient Folding Tote Bag is handy for lugging your stuff. The UBC emblem is imprinted and visible when folded or open. $14 - FS569 Order these products and many others online at carpenters.org. Order While There’s Still Time UBC merchandise makes a great gift for Mother’s Day (May 8), Father’s Day (June 19), or any day. Men’s Wristwatch $105.00 - FS434 Women’s Wristwatch $105.00 - FS435 Or, to order directly from the UBC Union Store, send order and payment – check or money order – to: CARPENTERS Attn: Insignia Products Department 14110 Sullyfield Circle Chantilly, VA 20151 Or call (703) 378-9000 Please add $7.95 shipping and handling. Make checks payable to United Brotherhood of Carpenters. All prices listed are in U.S. dollars. From the General President Build a Better Tomorrow By Standing Strong Today Hay que construir un La inteligencia demejor los futuro al mantenernosayuda unidos hoy carpinteros durante We Refuse to Be Deterred in the Face of Challenges Nosotros nos rehusamos a desalentarnos al enfrentar retos he theme of our 40th General Convention was “Standing Strong, Building Tomorrow,” four words to remind us what the UBC has been about for 130 years—and what it will always be about. T At the convention your delegates overwhelmingly affirmed our commitments to area-standard wages, unparalleled training opportunities, and grassroots political involvement. That, in short, is how we are building tomorrow. And the “All members must crew on this job needs to realize that they have include all half-million of us the power to protect who make up this proud our union’s hard-fought Brotherhood. Carpenters, millwrights, and gains, and they need to industrial workers know how to prepare now to take work hard. They also know that big projects require many advantage of the hands—and there is no bigger opportunities the future project today than making sure always provides.” the UBC stands strong. All members must realize that they have the power to protect our union’s hard-fought gains, and they need to prepare now to take advantage of the opportunities the future always provides. When the UBC confronts an unfair contractor, everyone who can pick up a sign should be on the line. We must defend area standards because an attack on one worker is an attack on all workers. While times are slow we need to take advantage of the unrivaled training that will put us back to work more quickly when the economy turns. We keep our tools sharp, and the same must hold true for our skills. If vital worker protections or infrastructure investments are at risk in Congress or Parliament, legislators need to get an earful from all of us. Only by raising our voices will we be heard. Fortunately, this Brotherhood is full of men and women who refuse to be deterred by today’s challenges and strive to shape a future where jobsites are more fair, government is more responsive, and there are more opportunities for UBC members. You can read some of their inspiring stories in this issue of Carpenter and at the members’ side of carpenter.org. And you can join them in this essential effort by standing strong, building tomorrow. 2 2011 tiempos difíciles carpenters.org muestra cómo General La página l temaWeb de nuestra Cuarentava Convención EH fue “Manteniéndonos Unidos con Fuerza, ay que trabajar de manera más inteligente. Construyendo el Futuro”. Estas palabras nos Los aprendices y los jornaleros aprenden recuerdan lo que la UBC ha sido por cerca de ciento esta importante lección cada día en nuestro treinta años – y nos recuerda lo que siempre será. centro capacitación JATC.con Enapoyo el trabajo, losafirEn la de convención sus delegados abrumador carpinteros de la unión se distinguen utilizar del sus maron nuestro compromiso hacia los salarios de por los estándares área, hacia las oportunidades de capacitación sin paralelo y hacia la cerebros para ser más productivos. participación al primer Tambiénpolítica es la forma en lanivel. que manejamos nuestros negoes la manera resumen, estamos construyendo el ciasEsa cuando se tratacomo, de lasen operaciones en nuestra Hermandad. futuro. Lostiempos miembros del equipo queimportante tienen esta que labornunca necesitan En estos difíciles es más que incluirnos a todos, al mediointeligente millón queyformamos esta Hermandad trabajemos de manera que nos aseguremos de utillena orgullo.recursos al lizarde nuestros Los carpinteros, los tra- “Todos los miembros deben máximo. bajadores molino losreEstade edición dey la darse cuenta que ellos trabajadores industriales vista Carpenter muestra tienen el poder de proteger saben cómo trabajar arduaesta filosofía en acción con mente. Ellos también saben la cobertura de nuestro lo que nuestra unión ha que los proyectos grandes rerenovado sitio Web ganado con ardua labor y quieren muchas manos – y carpeenters.org. que no hay un proyecto Actualizar nuestromás sitio que ellos necesitan grande e importante hoy que prepararse ahora para Web nos permite contar elmejor que selarelaciona aseguhistoriacon de la aprovechar las oporturarnos que la UBC perHermandad, tanto a los manezca fuerte y sólida. nidades que el futuro miembros como al Todosylos miembros público; esta unión tiene siempre proporciona”. deben darsehistoria cuenta que una gran queellos contienen el poder de proteger lo que nuestra unión ha ganado con tar. arduaLos labor y que ellos necesitan prepararse ahora para aprovechar miembros encontrarán noticias acerca de sus herlas oportunidades quede el la futuro siempre proporciona. manos y hermanas unión, actualizaciones de entreCuandoque la UBC se enfrenta a un contratista injusto, todos los namientos se están desarrollando, así como información que pueden recoger una pancarta deben estar en la demostración. sobre cómo la UBC está luchando por ellos. Debemos defender los estándares área porque un ataque Explorar nuestro sitio Web del ayudará a quienes tomansobre las deun trabajador es un ataqueysobre los trabajadores. cisiones en los negocios en eltodos gobierno a entender nuestra Aunque las cosas están con sin mucha actividad necesitamos unión y su compromiso la seguridad, laahora, productividad y la aprovechar las oportunidades de capacitación sin paralelo que nos capacitación. pondrán de regreso el trabajode más la de acEs parte de la en naturaleza losrápidamente carpinteroscuando ser gente economía tome positivo. Nosotros mantenemos nuestras herción, y no sóloun degiro palabras. Sin embargo, necesitamos ramientas listas y afiladas,mismos y lo mismo aplica a nuestras definirnos a nosotros si no queremos quehabilidades. otros lo Si las protecciones vitales de los trabajadores o las inversiones hagan por nosotros. El sitio Web, el cual fue desarrollado sin vitales infraestructura se encuentran en riesgo en el Congreso o añadirenpersonal, proporciona una manera eficiente para decirle elalParlamento, entonces los legisladores necesitan escucharnos mundo quiénes somos y porqué luchamos. hastaEl al Internet cansancionos a todos nosotros. nuestrasque voces permite hacer Sólo esto al deelevar una manera es seremos escuchados. económica—sin costos de imprenta, podemos dedicar más reAfortunadamente llena ya de que hombres y cursos al mensaje—yesta queHermandad también es está efectiva, más permujeres que se rehúsan a desalentarse con losenretos de hoy y que sonas estarán recibiendo la información línea. luchan para forjara un con deWeb trabajo más justos, un Los animo quefuturo visiten la sitios página carpenters.org y agobierno más receptivo, y más y mejores oportunidades para los que lo hagan de manera regular porque se publica nuevo conmiembros de la UBC. tenido constantemente. Pueden leer algunas historias deinformados inspiracióncon en este El mantener a los miembros las número últimas de lanoticias revista Carpenter el sitioy para miembros de carpenter.org. acerca de ysuenunión el educar al público acerca de Además, unirse a yellos en este esfuerzoson esencial al mantennuestrapueden productividad profesionalismo herramientas imerse unidos,para construyendo portantes mantenerelafuturo. la UBC fuerte y a nuestros miem- CARPENTER The United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America General Officers General President Douglas J. McCarron General Vice President Douglas J. Banes General Secretary-Treasurer Andris J. Silins 1st Vice President Emeritus Paschal McGuinness 1st Vice President Emeritus Dean Sooter District Vice Presidents Frank Spencer (Eastern) P.O. Box 375 Haddonfield, NJ 08033 (856) 428-1650 Bobby J. Yeggy (Midwestern) 6910 N. Main St. Unit 9, Bldg. 27B Granger, IN 46530 (574) 273-9314 Charles Danny Maples (Southern) 900 S. Gay St. Knoxville, TN 37902 (865) 673-4549 Michael V Draper (Western) 805 S.W. Industrial Way #1 Bend, OR 97702 (541) 388-2342 James E. Smith (Canadian) 5799 Yonge St., #807 Willowdale, Ont. M2M 3V3 (416) 225-8885 Carpenter Magazine 6801 Placid St. Las Vegas, NV 89119 (702) 938-1111 ext. 2500 Editor: Andris J. Silins Executive Director of Operations: Mario Waters Managing Editor: Doug Puppel Contributing Editors: Rosemarie Bahr Barbara Doherty Bruce Greenlaw Tom Schram Editorial Assistant: Shari Underhill Design: Barbieri & Green, Inc. Advertising Sales Office: The Sales Department 7910 Woodmont Ave., Ste. 530 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 652-8862 Fax (301) 907-8132 The Carpenter (ISSN-008-6843) is published by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, 101 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001. POSTMASTER: please send address changes to: Carpenter Magazine, 4801 Viewpoint Pl, Cheverly, MD 20781. © 2011 Printed in U.S.A. Canadian Publication Mail Agreement #40032998 Return undeliverable Canadian copies to: Toronto Station A, PO Box 640 Toronto, ON, M5W 1G2. f2pix.com photo: Cashman Pro V O L . 1 3 1 N O. 1 2 0 1 1 18 ‘McCarron Team’ Re-Elected UBC General President Doug McCarron, flanked by General Vice President Doug Banes, left, and General SecretaryTreasurer Andy Sillins, greets delegates at the UBC’s 40th General Convention after re-election of the “McCarron Team” slate of general officers and district vice presidents. Convention coverage begins on Page 18. Con Español Features 6 SISTERS BUILD ON SUCCESSES 10 MEMBERS LOBBY FOR JOBS 26 MAINTENANCE MEANS WORK Departments [ Quotable ] “We definitely changed some minds. I think the union should do that a lot more.” Henry Harrison Local 72 member who helped lobby to make sure a Miami stadium project was built union 2 FROM THE GENERAL PRESIDENT Con Español 4 UP FRONT 10 FIRST THINGS FIRST 25 NOTE TAKEN 26 CANADA Avec français 32 IN MEMORIAM 33 WE ARE THE UBC 26 Carpenter Ad Policy Carpenter is a union publication and promotes union values, and its advertising must reflect that. It accepts advertising, as it has since its first issue in 1881, as a way to defray publishing costs for the members of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. Our policy is to accept advertising for products made in the U.S. or Canada. We do not accept advertising from companies involved in boycotts or other disputes with organized labor or from nonunion companies in industries that employ UBC members. The magazine reserves the right to decline any advertisement. Advertising in Carpenter does not imply endorsement or warranty by the magazine or the United Brotherhood of Carpenters. We welcome comments from members on our advertisers and our policies. Potential advertisers should contact: The Sales Department, 7910 Woodmont Ave., Ste. 530, Bethesda, MD 20814 Tel: (301) 652-8862 Fax: (301) 907-8132 Cover photo by Peter Arathoon of Marble Street Studios See related story on Page 25 10 A CAREER IN MAINTENANCE NOTE TO READERS: This is the only issue of Carpenter planned for 2011. Keep up with Brotherhood news at carpenters.org. Up Front T he players in Congress might have changed, but the Brotherhood’s game plan remains the same. When the 112th Congress got down to business in January, more than 100 new members took their seats in the House and Senate in one of the biggest turnovers in decades. The bulk of the freshmen class belonged to the Republican Party, which posted gains in both chambers, including taking control of the House. The reshaped environment affirms the wisdom of the Brotherhood’s bipartisan Carpenter Politics, which focuses on issues that affect UBC families and not on party labels. Only through support from both parties were strong majorities achieved in closely watched votes defending Davis-Bacon prevailing wage protections. In February, a bipartisan majority in the House voted 233–189 to defeat a bid to repeal the Davis-Bacon Act, which requires that workers be paid prevailing wage on federal projects. Earlier in the month, three Senate Republicans joined with Democrats in defeating in a 55– 42 vote an amendment to strip workers of Davis-Bacon protections on Federal Aviation Administration projects. “Those votes by solid majorities in both houses should lay down a marker that Davis-Bacon must remain the law of the land, just as it has been since 1931,” said UBC General President Doug McCarron. “We’re thankful for lawmakers in both parties who realize that in these challenging times, they should be looking for ways to create opportunities for working people instead of trying to cut their wages.” Blaine Stiger Carpenter Politics Helps Turn Back Attacks on Davis-Bacon Protections Other federal issues on the Brotherhood’s radar include: support for needed transportation infrastructure investment and opposition to an unneeded free trade pact with South Korea. One way to foster opportunities for working people is passage of a new federal highway bill, which would generate construction jobs and boost the economy through a more efficient highway system. President Barack Obama has proposed at $556 billion, six-year continued on page 8 Member Named to Top Labor Post in Connecticut s a political activist and top UBC official in Connecticut, Glenn Marshall is no stranger the state labor commissioner’s office in Hartford. These days he’s enjoying the view from behind the desk. Gov. Dan Malloy, a firstterm Democrat elected last year, named Marshall to the Cabinet post in January. In announcing the appointment, a statement from the governor’s office said Marshall enjoys “recognized respect as a leader who has worked well with both organized labor and Connecticut businesses.” Marshall, president of Local 210, is a product of a long tradition of political involvement by 4 2011 Sam Kittner A the UBC in the Nutmeg State. Members volunteered for Malloy’s campaigns when he was mayor of Stamford and were early supporters in his run for governor last year. “All members in Connecticut and around the UBC should take pride in Glenn’s appointment,” said Mark Erlich, executive sec- Local 210 member Glenn Marshall, left, meets with Sen. Joe Lieberman, independent from Connecticut, at right, on Capitol Hill. Marshall began work March 1 as Connecticut’s new labor commissioner. retary-treasurer of the New England Regional Council. “It’s testament to the quality of people in the Brotherhood and of the respect our union has earned among elected officials.” For his part, Marshall said he intends to work for consensus in his new position, which enforces wage and safety laws, mediates labor disputes, handles unemployment benefits, and identifies and promotes worker training programs. “Gov. Malloy has spoken frankly and honestly about the unique ways in which we need to get the labor and business communities around the same table on behalf of the people of Connecticut,” he said. “That will be my guiding principle as I begin this next phase in my career.” Marshall, who most recently had been Connecticut regional manager for the New England council, closed out his many years of service as a staff representative and council Executive Board member before beginning work at his new post on March 1. ‘This Is Our Generation’s Moment to Fight’ he protests and legislative battles that erupted across the Midwest in February showed that worker rights can come under attack anywhere, even in states long friendly to unions. And while the salvos were generally aimed at state and municipal workers, the emboldened opponents of organized labor are also looking for ways to undermine private sector unions such as the UBC. Anti-union lawmakers tried to make Indiana the 23rd right-to-work state, but backed down in the face of protests by workers and their allies in the Legislature. Even then, advocates for the measure promised to revive it later. “This is our generation’s moment to fight and protect the gains won by those who came before us and to preserve opportunities for those who will follow,” said UBC General President Doug McCarron. Brotherhood members gained an important weapon in this battle with the launch last year of the UBC E-Activist program. After creating an account at carpenters.org, members can gain powerful tools to reach out to lawmakers, be kept in the loop on vital issues facing the UBC, and be notified when their help is needed. For initial registration, members need to provide their last names, last four digits of their Social Security or Canadian Social Insurance number, and their UBC identification numbers. Once they’re signed up, users can click on the E-Activist logo shown on this page and within minutes be part of the fight for the future of our Brotherhood. Cashman Pro T ©2011 WD-40 Company E-activism helps the Brotherhood be heard. CARPENTER 5 Up Front ince the launch of the Sisters in the Brotherhood movement less than a decade ago, a generation of women members has been energized about the bright futures available through the UBC. S They’ve founded women’s committees at more than a dozen councils, increased the number of women serving as convention delegates and alternates by nearly 600 percent, reached out to mentor other women, and are working to influence federal regulations to promote more diversity in the trades. Just don’t ask what they plan for an encore. To them, they’re just getting started. “No other union has ever made a commitment like this to women before,” said Elizabeth Skidmore, a member of Local 118 of Raymond, N.H., who presented the Women’s Committee report to the UBC’s 40th General Convention in August. Sisters’ Successes Show UBC’s Commitment to Women Sisters from the New York City District Council rally against Tristate Drywall in an areastandards campaign. 6 JUNE 2010 Above and on Page 7, New England Regional Council sisters join in a protest in support of workers at WGBH, the Boston TV station and show producer that’s the largest affiliate in the Public Broadcasting System. David Koch, the billionaire foe of organized labor, sits on the station’s board. “Sisters throughout the UBC should be heartened by the support shown by General President (Doug) McCarron and the delegates at the General Convention. Now it’s up to all of us to make the most of this opportunity.” Skidmore and JoAnn Williams of Local 795 in the St Louis & Vicinity District Council have been charged by General President McCarron with directing a new effort to improve outreach to women and assist councils in their efforts to support women in their ranks. (See “A Gathering of Sisters,” Carpenter, July 2010.) “Our goal is to make this a stronger union, which benefits everyone,” said Williams. “A key part of our outreach is to let women know that we all have a stake in the Brotherhood, we can all contribute, and that our union prospers when we pull together.” Since the founding of the Sisters in the ■ Working with the Obama administration Brotherhood prior to the UBC’s first on regulatory and enforcement issues to Women’s Conference in 2002, they have increase diversity in the trades. been active on a variety of fronts: ■ Creating the UBCSisters.org website. ■ Developing a partnership with Helmets to Hardhats to assist women who are interested in working in construction after leaving the military. ■ Helping pass an ordinance in Boston that created an online database showing compliance with city hiring goals for diversity in the trades. ■ Participating in pickets against unscrupulous contractors that underpay carpenters and undercut area-standard wages. ■ Building Habitat for Humanity womenbuilt houses throughout the U.S. ■ Hosting regional carpenters women’s conferences. ■ Using developers’ interest in workforce diversity to turn jobs union. ■ Establishing mentoring programs. ■ Working with union leaders and contractors to improve compliance with the goal of 6.9 percent women on all federally funded projects. ■ Working with the International Training Center to develop programs in leadership development, mentoring, and fighting harassment. CARPENTER 7 Up Front Payroll Fraud Fight Rolls On Gains in the States, Federal Setback BY BARBARA DOHERTY he Brotherhood’s effort to combat payroll fraud in the construction industry took several steps forward and a half-step back in recent months. With the help of activist members, states as diverse as Hawaii and Nebraska enacted laws to go after unscrupulous businesses that shortchange their workers and the communities in which they operate by paying workers off the books or misclassifying employees as independent contractors. T At the federal level, a measure to force denizens of the underground economy into the light was dealt a setback by lawmakers who feared it overburdened legitimate small-business operators. Part of last year’s health-care overhaul required taxpayers with business income to report to the IRS all vendors from whom they purchased more than $600 of goods and services in one tax year. The goal was to corral some of the $300 billion yearly “tax gap” the federal government faces because of underpayment. That hurts UBC members because tax evasion schemes give dishonest contractors a competitive advantage over those that play by the rules. An outcry from the business community over additional paperwork burdens found receptive ears in the new Congress, which 8 2011 put its skepticism of government regulation ahead of a pro-law enforcement initiative. Various repeal measures were being considered early this year in Washington. President Barack Obama has recommended modifying the reporting requirements to cover only services, something that would still target businesses that abuse employees by committing fraud. “We will continue to monitor the situation in Congress and build on our successes in the states, which helped make this issue part of the national discussion,” said UBC representative Matt Capece, who coordinates the Brotherhood’s campaign against payroll fraud. “A majority of states have recognized that payroll fraud is significant, that it is unfair to law-abiding employers and their employees, and that it steals revenue.” Since 2003, 32 states have passed 85 measures improving law enforcement, he said. Recent efforts have added new provisions in several states—including first-ever laws in Hawaii, Nebraska, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Wisconsin, and other states. Following the pattern set in many states, the new Hawaii law created a task force to study enforcement; the group’s report will be used to create enforcement policies. Nebraska’s new law—notable in a reliably conservative state—prohibits misclassification and off-the-books payments in construction and creates a “presumption of employment,” which puts the burden on the employer to prove its workers are not traditional employees. Pennsylvania’s 2010 law came after a hard-fought battle and imposes fines and potential criminal penalties and stop-work orders on construction employers who improperly classify workers. And while crime doesn’t pay, fighting it does. Anti-fraud units are finding that revenue collections from increased enforcement far outstrip the costs. In Washington state, the workers’ compensation anti-fraud unit collects $8 for every dollar spent on enforcement, according to the state’s department of labor and industries. New York and Iowa report similar successes. ————————————————— Congress continued from page 4 plan to fund federal highway projects. For years these vital initiatives have been funded through a series of short-term measures, the most recent of which passed in March. The UBC is letting lawmakers know a multiyear plan would bring certainty to the process, giving contractors more reasons to hire. On the trade front, lawmakers will soon be considering a free trade agreement with South Korea to lower tariffs between the two nations. The UBC opposes the measure because U.S. jobs would be lost; outside of agriculture, few sectors of the U.S. economy would benefit; and a lack of worker protections would be a drag on wages in both countries. The Economic Policy Institute, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank, predicts the measure would cost nearly 160,000 U.S. jobs and calls enacting it while the economy is weak “foolish and self-destructive for the United States.” Benny van der Wal Training Update John Marconi, a technical coordinator at the International Training Center, leads a group from the Associated General Contractors of America through the ITC’s shop. ITC Shines ITC Turns 10 / 14 When Construction Industry Visits Las Vegas hen the construction industry came to Las Vegas in late March, the Brotherhood opened the doors of the ITC to some of the largest construction employers in the U.S. and Canada. The annual meeting of the Associated General Contractors of America and the huge Conexpo-ConAgg trade show were held simultaneously, bringing 125,000 construction executives and suppliers to town. Many found their way to the UBC’s International Training Center, which hosted tours and meetings throughout the week. “The construction industry knows that returning to profitability requires improved productivity,” said General President Doug McCarron. “We are proud to showcase our International Training Center, which is dedicated to making Brotherhood members the W most productive on the jobsite.” General President McCarron spoke at an AGC panel discussion on issues facing the industry, where he was joined by International Union of Operating Engineers General President Vincent Giblin. Additional seating needed to be brought in to the forum, during which General President McCarron gave a PowerPoint presentation showing how a small boost in productivity can make a big difference in a company’s profitability and increase its opportunities to win more business. “Our members work only when our contractors work,” he said. The ITC also hosted a meeting of the National Construction Alliance II attended by more than 40 of the largest contractors, industry associations and consultants per- forming infrastructure, industrial maintenance and power generation construction. The NCA II is a partnership between the UBC and the Operating Engineers committed to working with contractors to provide them with a skilled, dedicated workforce under a competitive collective bargaining agreement. The attendees at the three-day event discussed the challenges and opportunities of increasing union market share with General Presidents McCarron and Giblin and industry association representatives Participants expressed their appreciation for the hospitality shown them at the ITC, and particularly for the extended commitment of time by top union officials to a discussion of issues of mutual concern and, as one contractor put it, the UBC’s willingness “to treat us [contractors] like customers.” Green Groups Endorse Brotherhood Training ucked at the bottom of a page in Awareness: Green Building, a manual for UBC members, are two logos that speak volumes about the quality of training available through the Brotherhood. Two leading advocates of sustainable building—the U.S. Green Building Council and the Green Building Initiative—approved the course materials created to compliment the training offered to members of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters. The manual, published last year by the Carpenters International Training Fund, developers of training for the UBC, supplements the union’s already intensive craft-skills training with an overview of the green build- T ing philosophy and how it is changing the construction industry. “The skills of our members are easily transferrable to a green job site,” said Bill Irwin, executive director of the Carpenters International Training Fund. “The Awareness: Green Building manual is intended to provide a bigger picture of the sustainable building philosophy.” The manual covers a broad array of topics, including components of green building; maintaining indoor environmental quality; job-site waste reduction; and an overview of government regulation. It is used in a six-hour course available for use at any of the union’s 200-plus training centers across the United States and Canada. The U.S. Green Building Council is perhaps best known as developers of the LEED green building certification system. The council also recognizes third-party education providers whose materials have passed a rigorous review. The USGBC approved the Awareness: Green Building training, designated the Carpenters International Training Fund as a USGBC Education Provider, and lists the manual as a course in its curriculum guide. The materials are now accredited for use in continuing education of LEED-credentialed professionals in the United States and Canada. The accredited materials provide one credit toward LEED professional accreditation. The manual also was submitted to Green Building Initiative, which reviewed and endorsed the material. Green Building Initiative markets the Green Globes building certification in the United States. Green Globes, a rating system similar to LEED, originated in Canada but is now being used in the United States as well. CARPENTER 9 First Things First It’s 4,000 miles between Wa STORIES BY TOM SCHRAM Locking Up Jobs Tim Albright, Neeser Construction Things are heating up for UBC members in Alaska, and it has nothing to do with the end to the long northern winter. It has to do with carpenters getting politically active. And that warm glow they are feeling comes from jobs. Through outreach to their elected representatives, hard work during the campaign season, and support of the Alaska Regional Council’s political activities, members helped make sure their union brothers and sisters are working on a major prison construction project and a state crime lab. Those members also stand ready to benefit when the state begins to appropriate monies from a UBC-backed ballot measure that voters approved to raise $400 million for school construction. “Our members know how to use all of the tools in the box,” said John Palmatier, executive secretary-treasurer of the Alaska Regional Council. “Political involvement gives us a louder voice to speak out on work opportunities, needed infrastructure investments, and fairer job sites.” Thanks in part to efforts by Brotherhood members who contacted their government representatives and supported their council's political activities: A $240 million, 1,536-bed, medium-security prison is being built by UBC members in Wasilla, Alaska’s fourth largest city in the south-central part of the state. And $400 million Continued on page 12 Member activism: Key to prison project work. 10 2011 ... but Brotherhood members stand shoulder when it comes to asilla, Alaska, and Miami … Landing the Marlins Political action and relationship-building by UBC members helped them reel in work on a half-billion-dollar baseball stadium for the Florida Marlins with the promise of quality training and jobs for area residents. “The Carpenters Union really came to the forefront with a strategic plan,” said Claude Delorme, executive vice president for ballpark development for the Marlins. “They got in front of the parade.” Construction of the $515 million, 37,000-seat, retractable-dome stadium has been an ongoing soap opera in South Florida for nearly 15 years. City and county officials wanted to make sure that construction was performed by local workers without cost overruns. The Marlins just wanted a playing venue that was modern and fanfriendly. Delorme said that the National League East team didn’t care whether the job was done union or nonunion. “This was a competitive bid process,” he said. “We didn’t want to favor one over the other.” Early on, the regional council recognized this as an opportunity and encouraged members to attend a seemingly endless stream of city and county commission meetings on the stadium. Henry Harrison is a 31-year member of the Brotherhood who works out of Local 72 in Hialeah. He did general carpentry work for more than four months on the stadium in 2009. “It was one of the biggest projects coming down in this area, and I needed a job,” said Harrison, 60. Continued on page 13 Robin Hill in those far-flung cities to shoulder fighting for work. Henry Harrison: Made pitch for baseball stadium. More Members Standing Strong / 22 CARPENTER 11 First Things First Alaska Continued from page 10 RISE Alaska in funds for school construction was approved in the November election when statewide bond measure Proposition B was passed. The prison work came after Neeser Construction, a UBC signatory contractor, was able to make the low bid because it got assurances that a sufficient number of skilled local workers were available. Alaska law mandates that a $75 per-day fee be paid to any worker who lives more than 65 miles from the project site. Scott Hansen, business manager for the state’s largest local, 1281 in Anchorage, assured Neeser that he had the nearby skilled workers, and Neeser was able to win the work. Then funding for the prison became a political football. “Neeser wanted letters of support to the governor,” Hansen said. “We asked our members to call and write letters. We told our members how big of a project it was and how important it would be.” The campaign worked and nearly 300 jobs were created at the prison, which is now scheduled to open in late summer, ahead of the original November projections. And some of the prison’s residents might end up there because of the UBC: Member involvement also led to the funding of the new $70 million Statewide Crime Lab, currently under construction in Anchorage. Hansen asked members to contact their representatives, and the legislation was passed in early 2010. “We always tell the members that when they are active, when they lobby and vote for projects like these, they are really voting for jobs.” Scott Hansen Local 1281 business manager 12 2011 “We always tell the members that when they are active, when they lobby and vote for projects like these, they are really voting for jobs,” Hansen said. Proposition B, the measure to fund school construction, was on the union’s radar long before the election. “It was brought up in every one of our local meetings for at least six months prior to the election,” Hansen said. “It was in our newsletters. It was $400 million and that’s hugely important right now.” Carpenters wrote letters and called their representatives. PAC fund dollars were put to use in support of the proposal. In the end, it received 59 percent of the statewide vote. Educating his own members was a key, Hansen said. “Some carpenters see in the media that if you vote for these bonds, it’s going to increase the property taxes by $30 a year. To them, it’s just going to cost money. Many of them get it, but there are a number of guys I talk to all the time about the basic economics: That if you put $100 million into projects around the town how it comes back ten-fold.” Most of the Prop B funds are still on the drawing board. “But we’ve already got a couple of the projects, and there are a number of others out there to bid,” Hansen said. “I anticipate that we will get a majority or better share of that work.” Florida Continued from page 11 “Our members deserve a lot of credit for creating work opportunities through their political action.” Robin Hill Jerry Rhoades EST, Florida Regional Council He attended meetings of both the City of Miami and Dade County commissions when the Brotherhood was trying to make sure the work was done by well-trained, fairly paid residents of South Florida. Harrison said some commissioners were initially cool to the union, but that changed after UBC members spoke up. “We told them about the program we had training people and our health and welfare programs,” Harrison said. “We definitely changed some minds. I think the union should do that a lot more.” Miguel A. Fuentes, political director of the council, encouraged local businesses and other members of the community to join the effort. “We first started getting involved by working with community groups trying to figure out how to make a positive longterm economic impact for Miami and Dade County residents,” Fuentes said. “So we committed to 50 percent local hiring policy and that we would be the training provider to make sure the job is done safely and productively.” The public officials agreed. The community responded. The Marlins were happy. And by Opening Day 2012, there will be a new, as yet unnamed baseball-only ballpark in Miami. Furthermore, the model was incorporated by the Miami Works program, a municipal effort to connect area residents and local small businesses with construction opportunities. That effort will ensure local hiring on any future public projects and use the council facilities for training. “We are now taking that model and expanding it to other big-ticket projects in the state,” said Jerry Rhoades, executive secretary-treasurer of the Florida council.. “Our members deserve a lot of credit for creating work opportunities through their political action.” Delorme said that he admired the initiative that the UBC took. “The Carpenters Union understood that there was a lot more at play than just the Marlins ballpark,” he said. “Yes, it was a $515 million project and yes, they wanted to get their members some work, but they also understood establishing relationships was critical to creating work long-term. “They were very smart in their approach in saying let’s get very involved in the community, let’s show we’re here for the long term and let’s work with the local partners.” CARPENTER 13 f2pix.com Up Front I TC tu A Decade of Making a Difference “This remarkable facility and the commitment of the students, teachers, and staff showcase what the United Brotherhood of Carpenters has to offer.” UBC General President Doug McCarron 14 JULY 2011 urns 1O Since its 2001 dedication, the Carpenters International Training Center has fostered ideas that built a better Brotherhood. Initiatives developed at the 12-acre Las Vegas campus made UBC members safer and more productive, energized a new generation of Brotherhood leaders, and helped the union’s continued on page 16 administration better serve the membership. CARPENTER 15 General President Doug McCarron dedicates the ITC in 2001. Reaching out to tribal partners in 2008. Industry conferences at the ITC showcase the crown jewel of Brotherhood training. Sen. Edward Kennedy toured the center in 2005 and said, “This is a dreamer’s facility—the result of a vision. I haven’t seen anything like it.” The Data Center securely stores Brotherhood membership records. Jim Laurie f2pix.com f2pix.com Keith Shimada continued from page 15 “This remarkable facility and the commitment of the students, teachers, and staff showcase what the United Brotherhood of Carpenters has to offer,” said General President Doug McCarron. More than 70,000 craft-skill instructors, elected union leaders, rank-and-file members, and staff from around North America have received training in the 38 classrooms and 60,000 square feet of shop space at the center. The International Training Center is the hub of the nearly $200 million annual investment the UBC makes union-wide to improve its members’ safety and productivity. It’s where instructors come to learn how to teach in-demand skills back home and where the Carpenters International Training Fund develops new courses and textbooks. Also at the center, the union’s Department of Education and Training has created and delivers innovative programs that support the union’s strategic priorities of growth, skill and professionalism, and improved administration. These courses provide instruction to important groups from across the Brotherhood, including thirdyear apprentices, foremen, council delegates, financial secretaries and trustees, and staff. “Over the last decade, business and political leaders from the United States and Canada have toured the International Training Center and left with greater respect for our Brotherhood,” General President McCarron said. “And as impressed as they were with the facility, it was the attitude of our people that made the difference.” Here are some images from the ITC’s decade of achievement: Jim Laurie Up Front ITC Marks 10 Years Spent Building a Better Brotherhood Comfortable-but-modest accommodations await ITC guests. A vibrant, growing ITC is a good sign for the UBC. A mural in the cafeteria tells the story of the Brotherhood. 16 2011 The ITC hosted the i Jim Laurie Jim Laurie Keith Shimada Additional classrooms and expanded meeting space were added in 2007. Jim Laurie Audra Dempsey Nearly 13,000 millwrights have trained at the center. Jim Laurie Sisters in the Brotherhood rally in 2010. Jim Laurie Then-Sen. Hillary Clinton visits the first UBC Women’s Conference in 2002. inaugural Drywall Olympics in 2010. Superintendents graduate after intensive training at the center and on the job back home. f2pix.com f2pix.com Kristy Barton General Convention delegates tour the center in 2010. Third-year apprentices learn about their union, their industry, and their important role in both. f2pix.com A new room tower, in rear, gave the center nearly 300 dorm rooms when it opened in 2008. CARPENTER 17 REPORTS FROM: The Brotherhood’s 40th General Convention W hen delegates gathered for the Brotherhood’s 40th General Convention the theme was “Standing Strong, Building Tomorrow.” When they filed out of the convention hall four days later the mood was moving ahead, preparing for the future. In between: They unanimously re-elected General Presi- dent Doug McCarron and the “McCarron Team” of general officers and district vice presidents; and they renewed commitments to member training, political involvement, and area standards. The 2,077 delegates and alternates focused much of their energies on measures to put UBC members back to work, including calling for passage of a federal highway bill, demanding reform of one-sided trade deals, and endorsing continued investment in the UBC’s unrivaled training. “There’s no question that this recession is beyond what anyone in this room has experienced,” General President McCarron said in his keynote address, but “we are ready now, and we will be ready continued on page 20 Warren Wong Leadership Re-Elected ‘We Are Winning’ Cashman Pro We are in shape for the job ahead because of the work we’ve done restructuring our union, rebuilding our training programs, and reaching a new generation of members. There is no question that this recession is beyond what anyone in this room has ever experienced. It’s an economy that our real enemies predict we can’t survive. But General President they’re wrong. We are Doug McCarron winning work with companies who haven’t worked union in years, some who’ve never worked union at all. And we’re winning because now more than ever they need to make every dollar count. They can’t afford delays, and they can’t afford mistakes. They have seen what we do and how well we do it. We are ready now, and we will be ready when the economy turns around. While everyone else is blaming someone else and trying to get back on their feet, we’ll be on the job, bags on, ready to work. Standing strong, building our union, building our future, building tomorrow. 18 2011 General President Doug McCarron and his leadership team won re-election unanimously and without opposition at the 40th General Convention. Along with General President McCarron, General Vice President Doug Banes and General Secretary-Treasurer Andy Silins won new five-year terms. Also re-elected without opposition were all five district vice presidents: Mike Draper (Western), Danny Maples (Southern), Jim Smith (Canadian), Frank Spencer (Eastern), and Bob Yeggy (Midwestern). In the two days leading up to the vote, delegates heard speakers praise the “McCarron Team” for its efforts to bring in new members, preserve Davis-Bacon prevailing wage protections, and expand opportunities for women in the UBC. In turn, General President McCarron, in his keynote address, credited delegates from the 2005 convention with “doubling down” on area-standards campaigns, training and education, and cost controls. “When that convention was gaveled to a close, we left the hall and went back to an economy that was booming,” he said. “That was a dangerous time for us. It would have been easy to relax.” Instead, the general president said, the union kept working hard, preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities through training and political action and fighting for worker justice. “We are organized and we are fighting,” he said. “We’re not just defending Delegates congratulate General President Doug what we have; we are winMcCarron, center, General Vice President Doug Banes, left, ning back what we lost.” and General Secretary-Treasurer Andy Silins. Cashman Pro Excerpts from UBC General President Doug McCarron’s keynote address to the convention: La Cuarentava Convención General de la Hermandad uando los delegados se reunieron para la Cuarentava Convención General de la Hermandad, el tema fue “Manteniéndonos Unidos con Fuerza, Construyendo el Futuro”. Cuando se reunieron otra vez en el centro de convenciones cuatro días después, el ánimo general indicaba el deseo de seguir adelante, preparándose para el futuro. C Durante la convención ellos unánimemente reeligieron al Presidente General Doug McCarron y al “Equipo McCarron” de oficiales generales y vicepresidentes de distrito, y además regeneraron su compromiso a la capacitación de los miembros, a la participación política y a los estándares del área. Los dos mil setenta y siete delegados y alternos enfocaron muchas de sus energías en medidas para poner a los miembros de la UBC de vuelta en el trabajo. Esto incluyó un llamado para la aprobación de la propuesta de ley federal para caminos, el demandar la reforma de los tratados comerciales que sólo benefician a una de las partes y el apoyar la inversión continua en la capacitación sin rival de la UBC. Attitude Called Key To UBC’s Future Cashman Pro General Vice President Doug Banes had a vital message for delegates at the 40th General Convention in Las Vegas in August: “We are building a union that will succeed because we are giving our members the skills to succeed. And the most important skill is attitude.” General Vice President Doug Banes Banes told the delegates that improving attitudes improves the lives of members by making signatory contractors more productive and more likely to win work. “We had to reject the old idea that the contractors were the enemy and begin treating them like our partners. We had to make it clear that productivity was something to be proud of, the sign of a truly skilled craftsman. And it had to start with our union recognizing what every member on the job already knows: In construction, if you don’t produce, you’re down the road. Our members know it. Our contractors know it. And we know it.” Banes, a millwright, pointed to the training that nearly 13,000 UBC millwrights have received at the International Training Center in Las Vegas, where classes focus on both attitude and aptitude. That kind of emphasis on training and productivity is the key for the union’s continued success, Banes said. “That is our challenge in the next five years. And I am confident we will succeed.” AND THE WINNERS ARE … Winning re-election without opposition as Brotherhood general officers and district vice presidents were: General President: Doug McCarron (Local 1506) General Vice President: Doug Banes (Local 2158) General Secretary-Treasurer: Andy Silins (Local 67) District Vice President/Canadian District: Jim Smith (Local 27) District Vice President/Eastern District: Frank Spencer (Local 1578) District Vice President/Midwestern District: Bobby Yeggy (Local 413) District Vice President/Southern District: Charles Danny Maples (Local 50) District Vice President/Western District: Michael V Draper (Local 2961) “No hay duda que esta recesión va más allá de lo que cualquiera en esta habitación había experimentado”, dijo el Presidente General McCarron en su ponencia principal. Sin embargo, “estamos en forma para llevar a cabo la labor frente a nosotros gracias al trabajo de restructuración que hemos hecho en nuestra unión, a la reforcontinuación a la página 20 The history display featured an 1835 carpenter banner, which was made into the poster at left. See Page 33 to learn more about this piece of labor history and how to get a copy of the souvenir poster. Brotherhood History Inspires Delegates History teaches by example, and delegates to the UBC’s 40th General Convention were apt pupils. Adjacent to the convention floor was the Standing Strong exhibit that featured a museum-quality display documenting how overcoming challenges has been part of the Brotherhood’s DNA since its 1881 founding. The exhibit told the story of how the UBC has endured economic downturns, anti-union assaults, and technological changes before. When at its best, the union has stuck to its founding principles and strengthened members through training and political action and by reaching out to all carpenters. The display featured historic items such as images of letters from Peter J. McGuire—a reminder of the UBC founder’s early efforts to bring the union to life. Select convention ribbons on display from the turn of the century symbolized the important role of the delegates. And antique tools from all over the world were dispersed throughout the exhibit floor—coupled with images of the union’s recent training initiatives— demonstrating the value of embracing change. Many of these items came from the University of Maryland Libraries’ archive of UBC records and materials. Exhibit visitors found more detailed descriptions of some of these historic pieces at three digital touchscreen kiosks. CARPENTER 19 Cashman Pro Cashman Pro Featured Speakers JOHN WILHELM International President UNITE HERE Cashman Pro “Most dangerous of all, these corporations are using their global leverage to tell all of us that we can take it or leave it.” Senate Majority Leader HARRY REID Cashman Pro “We can’t continue down the road to recovery if we don’t reject ideas that will take us backward, back to the same mistaken policies, misguided politics, and misplaced priorities that got us here in the first place.” VINCENT GIBLIN General President of the International Union of Operating Engineers “We are not looking for handouts in this world. We just want the privilege to go to work.” Pain Relief JERRY BROWN since elected California governor “Put our people back to work, whatever it costs. And it’s going to cost good wages in decent union work, and all of us pulling together.” Negotiating a contract for a fair day’s pay for a fair’s day work is something the Brotherhood practices all of the time. But convention delegates heard committee reports about a winning contract that had nothing to do with the construction industry. Using economies of scale and the collective power of the union’s health and welfare funds, the UBC negotiated a two-year extension to its pharmacy benefit agreement, saving more than $400 million without reducing benefits. That’s strong medicine in the battle against medical inflation. continuación de la página 19 when the economy turns around.” Delegates approved a committee report calling for a robust defense of area-standard wages through whole-market campaigns to shame subpar contractors and create opportunities for those that treat their workers fairly. “These campaigns are designed Highway jobs on the agenda. to protect economic standards of him. And he was there for you.” union carpenters and elevate the Several labor and political leadstandards of unrepresented carpen- ers also spoke to the convention, ters,” the report said. including: Vincent Giblin, general The spirit of longtime Brother- president of the International Union hood ally Sen. Edward Kennedy of Operating Engineers; UNITE loomed large over the convention, HERE President John Wilhelm; which paid tribute to the “AmeriSenate Majority Leader Harry Reid, can hero,” as General President D-Nev., and Jerry Brown, who McCarron called him. went on to be elected Attorney and entrepreneur governor in California. Edward Kennedy Jr., the late senator’s eldest son, told Read more on the Brotherhood’s delegates: “On issue after 40th General Convention at issue, you were there for carpenters.org/convention2010 mulación de nuestros programas de capacitación y a los esfuerzos por alcanzar una nueva generación de miembros”. Los delegados aprobaron un reporte de comité que pedía una defensa robusta de los salarios de los estándares del área a través de campañas de mercado entero para avergonzar a los contratistas que se encuentran bajo los estándares y para crear oportunidades para aquellos que tratan a sus trabajadores de forma justa. “Estas campañas están diseñadas para proteger los estándares económicos de los carpinteros de la unión y para elevar los estándares de los carpinteros que no tienen representación”, dijo el reporte. El espíritu del Senador Edward Kennedy, el aliado de la Hermandad por mucho tiempo, Blaine Stiger continued from page 18 20 2011 se hizo presente durante la convención, la cual dio tributo a un “héroe americano”, como lo llamó el Presidente General McCarron. El abogado y empresario Edward Kennedy Jr., el hijo mayor del difunto senador, le dijo a los delegados: “Una y otra vez, cuestión sobre cuestión, ustedes estuvieron ahí para él y él estuvo ahí para ustedes”. Varios líderes laborales y políticos también hablaron en la convención, incluyendo a Vincent Giblin, presidente general de la Unión Internacional de Ingenieros Operativos; el presidente de UNITE HERE John Wilhelm; el Líder de la Mayoría del Senado Harry Reid, DemócrataNevada; y Jerry Brown, quien pasó a ser elegido como gobernador en California. Delegates Honor Kennedy Cashman Pro Sen. Edward Kennedy was a great champion of social justice, working people, and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters during his nearly 50 years in Congress. So it was fitting that at the 40th General Convention, the Brotherhood paused briefly from union business to remember the legacy of the Massachusetts senator who stands as one of his nation’s great political figures. “He was truly an American hero,” said General President Doug General Secretary-Treasurer Andy Silins Veterans Strengthen UBC The Helmets to Hardhats program to help veterans break into the construction industry has brought more than 4,000 men and women into the UBC, including two who took their Oath of Obligation onstage at the General Convention. UBC General Secretary-Treasurer Andy Silins, a Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War, administered the oath to Samuel Hill of Detroit and Jessica Drake of Louisville, Ky., during a commemoration of the Brotherhood’s support of veterans. “We owe our veterans so much,” Secretary-Treasurer Silins told the convention. “We owe them a chance to prove themselves at home like they did in the service.” The new members of the Brotherhood said they relished the opportunities the UBC and Helmets to Hardhats provide. “Both organizations have rolled out the red carpet for me,” said Hill, a Marine veteran of the first Gulf War. Helmets to Hardhats helps deployed and returning troops to learn about construction careers and get on the fast track to training and steady work. Since the program was launched in 2003, the Brotherhood has brought in more participants than any other labor organization. Supporting the Troops During convention registration, delegates helped fill boxes with snacks, T-shirts, copies of Carpenter magazine, other everyday items—and notes of appreciation for the sacrifices being made by members of the military. From there the boxes made a nearly two-month trip across the globe, providing troops a little bit of home and demonstrating the big heart of the Brotherhood. Marine Master Gunnery Sgt. Lorenzo Jones expressed gratitude on behalf of the Regimental Combat Team 2, which received some of the packages during its deployment in western Afghanistan supporting the troop surge in Helmand Province. “The Marines of Headquarters, Communications Platoon were surprised and appreciative by your kindness and generosity,” Jones wrote in an e-mail, adding that it was the first mail in a while for some at the base. “I received the packages Thursday 21 October and distributed them to every Marine aboard Camp Delaram II.” Cashman Pro Cashman Pro General President McCarron and Ted Kennedy Jr. McCarron in introductory remarks for the main speaker of the convention’s second day, Ted Kennedy, Jr., the senator’s eldest son. Kennedy said that the three primary issues that consumed his father, who died at age 77 in 2009, were health care, civil rights, and fairness for working people. “Those were the issues he cared about. He really felt that it was his job to look after the people society left behind.” Those issues mirror the concerns of the UBC, a fact that was not lost on the younger Kennedy. “My father’s values and agenda were your values and agenda,” he said. “He always knew the UBC had his back. My father loved the Carpenters Union.” A video tribute left delegates with smiles tinged with sadness, particularly those in the Massachusetts delegation. “Ted Kennedy was always a friend,” said Richard Trahan of Local 33 in Boston. “You’d just tell him you were a carpenter and he went out of his way to help you.” CARPENTER 21 Members Standing Strong BY BARBARA DOHERTY he theme of the Brotherhood’s 40th General Convention —Standing Strong, Building Tomorrow—provides the winning formula for today’s UBC members, just as it always has, just as it always will. Only through fierce dedication to the Brotherhood cause and a belief in a better future have members prevailed in difficult times. Across North America, thousands and thousands of members are standing strong on behalf of their union and working for a better future for their families. Here are a few of their stories. More stories about members making a difference can be found at carpenters.org. Jim West T Ready for Anything Jim West Whatever the future throws at Jenny Shroufe, it’s a pretty good bet she’ll be trained to meet it. Trying to fashion a living in the economically challenged state of Michigan, Shroufe began her apprenticeship at the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters’ Fennville Training Center in 2006. She earned upgrade certificates in door hardware, advanced layout, solid surface, health-care best practices, and more. “I’m pretty sure I have all the upgrades I could take,” she said. Then Shroufe, her husband, Michael, also a member of Local 1004, and four kids moved from the Grand Rapids area in western Michigan to the central part of the state to take advantage of work opportunities in more diverse geographic areas. And in August, she began a new apprenticeship program in the UBC’s INSTALL floor-laying training at the Mason Training Center. “The council prides itself on the Michigan member Jenny Shroufe sharpens her broad range of training we provide, floor covering skills with instructor Tod Sandy and it’s heartening when someone at the Mason Training Center. takes full advantage of the opportunity,” said Mike Jackson, executive secretary-treasurer of the Michigan Regional Council. As the economy of the Great Lakes State improves, so do Shroufe’s prospects. “It’s been a crazy year, with the move and now getting back to training and work,” Shroufe said. “But I’ll be very glad to get involved in the union, now that I’m more aware of what it stands for and what it does. I’ve always been a glass-half-full kind of girl.” She’s been trained that way. 22 2011 Voices Heard in Hawaii Eunice Montenegro Jackson Fujikawa understands that area standards bring better value and a better product—and, thanks to him and his union brothers and sisters, so do hundreds of others. “If we do this right, the whole community can benefit,” said Fujikawa, who spends 30 hours each week at one of Local 745 Hawaii Carpenters Union’s bannering sites. For Ron Taketa, financial secretary and business representative for the Hawaii Carpenters, Fujikawa and the others standing up for fair play display the best of the Brotherhood. “These men and women are letting their neighbors know that everyone has a stake in seeing workers treated fairly,” Taketa said. Fujikawa’s five-days-a-week turn as a vocal union activist began as he UBC members, left to right, John Gary Bennett, Ronald Smith, Cathy Pike, and Danny McKenna at the Antigonish Town Hall. North Star An outside contractor and underpaid crew made waves with UBC members in the northern Nova Scotia village of Antigonish when they showed up to work on a bridge project in the community. Ronald Smith and his fellow Local 1392 members decided to fight for local labor, and, while they were not able to stop the project, they built a bridge of their own. Their education campaign drove home the idea of local jobs for local projects to the area’s residents and politicians and resulted in a town council resolution promoting that ideal. With help from the Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island Regional Council, the campaign got going last summer when a major bridge-building contractor from Ontario brought in low-wage, low-skilled out-of-towners to build the $4 million bridge. “The members of Local 1392 stood up for what is right,” said Simon Pitts, executive secretary-treasurer of the Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island Regional Council. “If they didn’t before, our elected officials now know that UBC members can make their voices heard.” Smith and fellow members picketed the construction site with homemade signs reading, “Our Local Jobs Today … Tomorrow Who’s Next?” They went to the town’s newspaper to solicit support, and they showed up several days a week at the local office of Antigonish’s provincial MLA, or Member of the Legislative Assembly. “At one point I asked the MLA if he would want a skilled carpenter to build his house or an unskilled one,” Smith said. “I guess we drove the point across to him pretty good.” refused to be idled, even as work slowed two years ago. “In my whole life, I never thought I’d be in a situation like this, where I didn’t have work. But here I am,” said Fujikawa. “Things are coming back, but they’re coming back slowly. At age 60, I’m starting all over.” During his career, Fujikawa faced the challenges of high-rise construction work and helping to destroy the U.S. chemical weapons stockpile on a tiny Pacific atoll. Now he brings that hard work and dedication to a new challenge—fighting for Brotherhood values. “I believe in the union. It’s not so much about the money, but in anything you do, you need representation. When employers want to mess with you, you need your union.” Eunice Montenegro Michael Hawes Jackson Fujikawa, right, joins apprentices Ty Kauweloa , center, and Rodney Kwock in a protest for area-standard wages. Ronald Smith CARPENTER 23 Generation Next Monsour’s Photography Members Standing Strong “I want to show all the members that I can handle the job and maybe run for something else later on.” When General Convention delegates amended the UBC Constitution last year to allow apprentices to run for union office, they had members like Greg Hebert in mind. When he was voted in as recording secretary of Local 1075 in Lake Charles, La., Hebert, a 22-year-old who joined the UBC in 2007, became one of the first apprentices to take advan- Local 1075 recording secretary and third-year apprentice tage of the opportunity to play a greater role in their union. Greg Hebert is flanked by two of his mentors, instructor David Racca, left, and council representative Dick E. Allen. “Recording secretary may not be the most glamorous position,” Hebert said, “but it does carry responsibility. What I write down at meetings could get referenced in the important a strong union and robust Change Agents future. I want to show all the members that I can handle construction industry are to their UBC apprentices can get things own futures. (See “Tools for a the job and maybe run for something else later on.” done. After all, they must balance the Stronger Brotherhood,” Carpenter, Hebert had sometimes filled in as recording secretary demands of work, training, and, for April 2010) for Local 1075 and was recruited to stand for election to many, family. The program includes a questionthe then-vacant post. For evidence, check out the UBC and-answer session with UBC Gener“We need to get more of the younger people involved,” Constitution, which now allows ap- al President Doug McCarron, and said Jason Engels, executive secretary-treasurer of the Cenprentices to run for union office. several participants, including Greg tral South Regional Council, which covers Louisiana. “We ask Delegates at the 40th General Con- Hebert who is profiled here, asked our apprentices to be good students and hard workers— vention approved amending the that the constitution be changed so qualities that can only strengthen the Brotherhood.” constitution, but apprentices provid- they could contribute more to their So it is with Hebert. He is a rock-solid presence at ed the catalyst. union by holding office. every Local 1075 event. The Third-Year Apprentice ProThat prompted the drafting of a “Some guys don’t go to the meetings; I don’t know gram: Helping Build Our Industries proposed amendment, and, after due why,” Hebert said. “The meeting is where all the real busibrings participants to the Internaconsideration by the delegates, it was ness happens, where you get to hear what’s going on betional Training Center to learn how approved. Unanimously. hind the scenes.” Mark Hirsch Always in the Race Local 2704 activists Keith Hartman, who is the local’s president and Linda Krogman, the local’s conductor, knock on doors to get out the vote in Dubuque, Iowa, on Election Day. 24 2011 Keith Hartman can pinpoint to the day when he knew the long hours he spent volunteering on political campaigns were worth it. That moment came Jan. 19, 2004, when Hartman, president of Local 2704 in Dyersville, Iowa, dragged himself home after helping Sen. John Kerry win the state’s Democratic presidential caucuses. Waiting for him was a handmade sign from his 6-year-old son—a crayoned likenesses of Kerry and Hartman presented with the words, “Congratulations, Dad.” For Hartman, his years of political activism go hand-in-hand with his work as president of his local, an affiliate of the Carpenters Industrial Council. He and his 180 fellow local union members work at Modernfold, a manufacturer of operable walls in Dyersville and pride themselves on their political involvement. In the fall of evennumbered years politics can (almost) rival Hawkeye football as a topic of conversation. “Frontline political activists are invaluable,” said Mike Pieti, executive secretary-treasurer of the Carpenters Industrial Council. “They can energize fellow members and make elected officials aware of how issues such as unfair trade can affect working families in their community.” Talking to people about trade policy is big with Hartman, who has held the top elected office of his local for 18 of the last 21 years. “With so many jobs going overseas, the Brotherhood’s manufacturing members look hard at candidates’ positions on trade,” he said. Note Taken Al Sundstrom Peter Arathoon, Marble Street Studios Picture Perfect in New Mexico Karl Nordin has kept busy in retirement folding money, making puzzles, and baffling his friends. A Puzzling Retirement K arl Nordin’s “Almost” Impossible Wooden Puzzles and folded dollarbill creations are brain candy for carpenters. One look at the retired UBC member’s handmade trinkets often leaves visitors stumped. “If you know the answer, you go, ‘Oh sure, I knew that,’” said the 82year-old who lives in West Long Branch, N.J. “But it’s so much better if you figure it out for yourself.” Before retiring, Nordin, a 54-year member of Local 2250 in Red Bank, N.J., built shopping malls and houses, including the home he shares with his wife of 63 years. “I make all the big decisions, and she makes all the small decisions,” Nordin said. “So far we haven’t had any big decisions.” Armed with a plane, a hammer, and a chisel, it takes Nordin about half an hour to fashion each puzzle. And wood isn’t his only weapon. After seeing a dollar bill folded to look like a shirt, Nordin branched out into money-folding. Like the puzzles, it engages his hands and mind and keeps him on his toes trying to come up with new ways to work a greenback. “You can’t just sit around in a rocking chair. You have to keep busy; otherwise, you just fade away,” he said. Michigan Members Put Detroit Auto Show in Gear risk business at this year’s North American International Auto Show demonstrated that the economy is picking up speed—even in hard-hit Detroit. More than 735,000 people attended this year’s show and pumped nearly $400 million into the Michigan economy, both figures well up from a year earlier. Also on the upswing was the contribution that members of the UBC make to this important showcase for the world’s auto industry. To turn Cobo Center into the world’s biggest auto showroom took the work of 550 union carpenters from the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights. “There were 30 percent more carpenters working at the 2011 show over a year earlier,” said Mike Jackson, executive secretary-treasurer of the Michigan council. Union carpenters manufacture the bulk of the auto displays for the show, and the exhibits are then used by automakers at other events around the world. B t is said that a picture is worth 1,000 words, but it would be hard to improve on the few words visible in Carpenter’s striking cover photo. “United Brotherhood of Carpenters” and “Labor omnia vincit,” Latin for “Labor conquers all,” can be seen in the award-winning image. In it, Local 1506 members Placido Castaneda Jr., left, and Enrique Castaneda polish the UBC emblem embedded in the concreteterrazzo floor of the Southwest Regional Council’s new training center in Albuquerque, N.M. The photo by Peter Arathoon of Marble Street Studios in Albuquerque was named one of 2010’s top construction photos, as determined by judges from Engineering NewsRecord magazine. The Albuquerque training center, which held its grand opening in July, deserves plaudits of its own. The 100,000-square-foot, twostory, state-of-the-art facility contains four large classrooms, a multipurpose room, a 3,800-square-foot meeting hall, and offices. The heart of the facility is the 70,000square-foot shop that hosts a wide variety of skill training, including instruction in carpentry, concrete forms, bridge work, drywall hanging and finishing, scaffolding, and acoustic ceilings. The training center also makes good a commitment made several years ago, said Southwest Regional Council Executive Secretary-Treasurer Mike McCarron. “When the state of New Mexico became part of the Council in 2006, we told our signatory contractors and union carpenters that we would provide the resources necessary to lead the construction industry in skill and productivity. I am proud to say that we have fulfilled our promise.” I CARPENTER 25 Canada A Career in Maintenance? It’s In the Numbers t may take four or five years to build a major industrial facility such as a refinery or upgrader but it then operates for four or five decades. These industrial behemoths require major maintenance and, in the process, generate much work for skilled UBC members. In 2010 alone, across Canada, carpenter/scaffolders worked nearly 5 million hours and millwrights worked almost 1.5 million hours. I These maintenance hours record work performed under the General Presidents Agreement (GPA) and National Maintenance Agreements (NMA). These agreements are negotiated collectively by International Unions recognizing that in the industrial sector maintenance is as important, if not more important, than construction in terms of employment hours for our membership. “We have to take the long-term view that is best for our membership, signatory contractors and major industrial clients like oil companies, manufacturers, and mining 26 2011 companies,” said Canadian Vice President, Jim Smith. “While we want to do the construction projects, the significant hours of work over time are on the maintenance side of the equation. That is why we work every day to make sure our signatory contractors have well-trained, safe, productive and professional members to ensure the plants of major clients are well maintained.” There is also an important connection between current maintenance and future construction. A well-maintained plant generates a revenue stream that allows a company to expand existing facilities or build new facilities. If that revenue stream is interrupted or does not produce to expectations due to maintenance problems then shareholders and other investors move their money elsewhere and anticipated construction is mothballed. From a member’s perspective, maintenance work has a major advantage. While new construction is subject to the peaks and valleys of the business cycle, maintenance is steady. Whether it’s boom or bust, plant maintenance must be performed. In fact, the maintenance schedule is often accelerated in down times so the plant can return to full capacity when the economy bounces back. “Having members dedicated to working maintenance is a win-win for the United Brotherhood” said Smith. “They are rewarded with steady work and some of the profits they help create are invested in future construction for our members working in construction.” Bob Akester Millions of Hours Millions d’heures UBC Work Hours Across Canada Heures de travail de la FUCMA dans tout le Canada 7 6 Total 5 4 3 Carpenters Charpentiers 2 1 Millwrights Mécaniciens d’entretien 0 2008 2009 2010 Une carrière dans l’entretien? afin de garantir que les usines de nos principaux clients sont bien entretenues. » Il existe aussi un lien important entre les travaux d’entretien actuels et les travaux de construction futurs. Une usine bien entretenue génère un flux de revenus qui permet à une entreprise d’agrandir les installations existantes ou de construire de nouvelles installations. Si ce flux de revenus est interrompu ou ne remplit Songez-y sérieusement... pas les attentes en raison de problèmes d’entretien, les actionnaires et les autres investisseurs se retirent, et les travaux de construction prévus sont suspendus. a construction d’une installation industrielle majeure telle qu’une Du point de vue d’un membre, les raffinerie ou une usine de traitement prend peut-être quatre ou cinq travaux d’entretien offrent des avantages ans, mais elle fonctionne ensuite pendant quatre ou cinq décennies. significatifs. Alors que les nouveaux travaux de construction subissent les hoquets du cycle d’une entreprise, les Ces « géants » de l’industrie pour ce qui est des heures de travail que travaux d’entretien, eux, sont stables. qui exigent d’importants travaux d’entre- cela représente pour nos membres. Quelle que soit la période économique, tien engendrent beaucoup de possibilités « Nous devons adopter la perspective pour les membres qualifiés de la FUCMA. à long terme qui est la meilleure pour nos les travaux d’entretien doivent être exécutés. En fait, le calendrier des travaux En 2010 seulement, dans tout le Canada, membres, pour les entrepreneurs signad’entretien est souvent accéléré durant les charpentiers/monteurs d’échafaudages taires et les principaux clients industriels les périodes d’inactivité afin que l’usine ont effectué près de 5 millions d’heures de tels que les sociétés pétrolières et puisse retrouver sa pleine capacité au travail et les mécaniciens d’entretien, près minières, et les fabricants », déclare Jim moment de la reprise. de 1,5 million d’heures. Smith, vice-président pour le Canada. « Avoir des membres qui se consacrent Ces heures d’entretien reflètent le tra- « Bien que nous voulions assumer les vail accompli dans le cadre de la General projets de construction, la majeure partie aux travaux d’entretien est une situation gagnante pour la FUCMA, explique Jim Presidents Agreement (GPA) et des Nades heures de travail au fil des années se tional Maintenance Agreements (NMA). trouve dans le domaine de l’entretien. C’est Smith. Ils sont récompensés par du travail régulier, et certains des profits qu’ils conCes conventions sont négociées collective- la raison pour laquelle nous travaillons tribuent à engendrer sont investis dans ment par des syndicats internationaux chaque jour pour nous assurer que les des travaux de construction futurs dont reconnaissant que l’entretien dans le entrepreneurs signataires disposent de profitent nos membres travaillant dans secteur industriel est aussi important, personnel bien formé, productif, profesvoire plus important, que la construction sionnel et travaillant de façon sécuritaire, ce secteur. » L CARPENTER 27 Canada A message from UBC Canadian District Vice President Jim Smith “Without the right attitude, all our training, skills, and dedication to safety are wasted. Attitude is the critical element.” Actions, Not Words, Define Our Attitudes Members Should Lead By Example five-year report of UBC activities in Canada prepared for our 40th General Convention this past August proclaimed proudly our enormous investment in training centres across Canada. The report indicated how many of our training centres have gained accreditation to deliver apprenticeship programs in addition to journeyperson upgrades. The report concluded, rightly, that the United Brotherhood in Canada is positioned to remain the premier organization of skilled craftspeople. A In the past five years, we took that commitment to training a step further and introduced a “Commitment to Excellence.” We were not only going to be the union with the most skilled tradespeople. We were going to be the union that supplied safe, skilled, and productive workers. But in our commitment to training, in our commitment to safety and in our commitment to productivity, there was a missing element—attitude! Without the right attitude, all our training, skills, and dedication to safety are wasted. Attitude is the critical element. I recently had the pleasure of sitting across the boardroom table from Arthur Irving, the patriarch of Irving Oil. It was a moment for frank discussion. I wanted Irving Oil to know what the membership of the United Brotherhood can bring to the job. I spoke of training, skills, safety, productivity, and then I mentioned “attitude.” He seized on the word attitude immediately. Attitude is what he desired most. For Arthur Irving a union member whose skills may not yet be complete but who possesses the right attitude is a valued employee. 28 2011 During one of our third-year apprentice meetings at the International Training Centre, one of our contractors appealed directly to the apprentices assembled there, “You are the face of my company. If you look sharp and ready to go, my company looks good.” He was talking about attitude. What are the characteristics of the right attitude? It’s how we approach the job. Are we positive? Are we determined to get the job done? Are we ready to work as a team? Do we take pride in our work? Or ... do we cut corners? Linger on breaks? Leave initiative to others? Are we satisfied just getting along? Attitude is measured by behaviour, not words. We answer these questions every day on the job by how we conduct ourselves. Attitude is also contagious! We have all had the experience of working with a crew where everyone is upbeat, pitches in, helps out. No shirking. The days go by quickly. We feel good at the end of the day. We have all experienced the opposite—grumbling, griping, blaming. No teamwork. No spirit. The day drags on. We can’t wait to get offsite, and we dread returning. How do we make sure that all our crews adopt the right attitude? The answer is simple. You can make the difference. In my experience the difference between a crew with the right attitude and a crew with the wrong attitude is a matter of initiative. If a few individuals lead by example, they set the standard and the right attitude spreads. Be the difference maker. Take the initiative. Arrive on the job with the right attitude and set the standard. As General Vice President Doug Banes challenged our convention delegates: “Think about the contractor who terminated our agreement, or the owners who won’t use our people on their jobs. “Was it ever a question of skill? Or, was it attitude?” MAKING UNION MEMBERS WAGES GO FURTHER Union Savings benefit suppliers are names you trust such as Bell Mobility, BMO, RBC Insurance, ACE, and Royal LePage. $2,500 of Accident Insurance Free – Low Rates for More Accident Insurance low premiums, excellent coverage Long Term Care Insurance benefits of up to $100,000. Critical Illness Insurance allows you to focus on recovery. Toll Free: 1-877-534-3655 Exceptional Coverage and Preferred Group Rates Multiple discounts available Auto Insurance (not available in Manitoba, Saskatchewan or British Columbia) Multiple payment options Accident protection Accident benefits Home Insurance Three coverage packages Sewer back up coverage (Canada wide) Guaranteed replacement cost Toll Free: 1-800-Royal-29 (1-800-769-2529) Underwritten by RBC General Insurance Company or RBC Insurance Company of Canada. ® Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under license. A Better Wireless Plan- $20 monthly, 250 Free Minutes more features, lower rates BONUS one time $50 billing credit Free call display and full voice mail Unlimited evenings and weekends (6pm-8am) Toll Free: 1-866-375-3111 For service in French please call 1-866-908-4555 Please note this program is not available in Manitoba or Saskatchewan. Get Smart Mortgage Advice for Free providing complete guidance in obtaining the best rates available Let the mortgage experts work for you No risk, no fees, no obligation Toll Free: 1-866-599-9799 Lower Interest Rate – More Benefits MasterCard 10% Commission Rebate When You Buy or Sell a Home lower interest rate, lower fees, including CashBack or AIR MILES substantial savings not available to the public. Emergency strike skip payment privileges Extended Warranty Insurance 24-hour out-of-country emergency assistance Payment grace period Toll Free: 1-800-263-2263 No cost comparative Market analysis Regular print and local media marketing Open Houses Toll Free: 1-866-965-5252 and ask for Steven DiGiovanni. For service in French please call 1-866-239-9511 YOUR UNION JUST BECAUSE YOU’RE A MEMBER OF United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners America For more details, please visit www.unionsavings.ca MARCH, 2010 Canada Message de Jim Smith, vice-président de district pour la FUCMA (Canada) « L’attitude revêt une importance cruciale. Si nous n’avons pas la bonne attitude, notre formation, nos compétences et notre engagement envers la sécurité ne servent à rien. » Les actes, et non les mots, définissent nos attitudes Les membres devraient montrer l’exemple ans un rapport sur cinq ans des activités de la FUCMA au Canada, préparé pour notre 40e congrès syndical qui s’est déroulé en août dernier, on proclamait avec fierté l’investissement énorme dans nos centres de formation, dans tout le Canada. Le rapport indiquait le nombre de centres de formation qui ont obtenu l’agrément nécessaire pour offrir des programmes d’apprentissage, en plus des possibilités de recyclage pour les compagnons d’apprentissage. Le rapport concluait, à juste titre, que la FUCMA au Canada est positionnée pour rester la première organisation de gens de métier qualifiés. Au cours des cinq dernières années, nous sommes allés encore plus loin dans notre engagement envers la formation en introduisant un « Engagement envers l’excellence ». Nous allions non seulement être le Syndicat qui regroupe les travailleurs les plus qualifiés, mais le Syndicat qui fournit du personnel productif, qualifié et travaillant de façon sécuritaire. Cependant, il manquait un élément dans notre engagement envers la formation, la sécurité et la productivité – l’attitude ! L’attitude revêt une importance cruciale. Si nous n’avons pas la bonne attitude, notre formation, nos compétences et notre engagement envers la sécurité ne servent à rien. Dernièrement, j’ai eu le plaisir de me retrouver en face d’Arthur Irving, le patriarche d’Irving Oil, lors d’une réunion. C’était le moment d’avoir une discussion franche. Je voulais qu’Irving Oil sache ce que les membres de la FUCMA peuvent apporter. J’ai parlé de formation, de compétences, de sécurité et de productivité; puis, j’ai mentionné le mot « attitude ». Immédiatement, il a relevé le mot : l’attitude, c’était ce qu’il recherchait le plus chez un travailleur. Pour Arthur Irving, un membre syndiqué qui ne possède peut-être pas encore toutes les compétences requises, mais qui a une bonne attitude, est un employé précieux. Au cours de l’une des réunions à l’intention de nos apprentis en 3e année qui s’est tenue au Centre international de la formation, l’un de nos entrepreneurs s’est adressé directement aux apprentis présents : D 30 2011 « Vous êtes l’image de mon entreprise. Si vous êtes malins et travailleurs, mon entreprise reflète une bonne image. » Il parlait de l’attitude. À quoi reconnaît-on une bonne attitude? C’est la façon dont nous abordons le travail. Avons-nous une attitude positive? Sommes-nous déterminés à exécuter le travail? Sommes-nous prêts à travailler en équipe? Sommes-nous fiers de notre travail? Ou... prenons-nous des raccourcis? Des pauses plus longues? Laissonsnous les autres prendre des initiatives? Nous contentons-nous de faire le minimum? L’attitude se mesure au comportement, non aux mots. Nous répondons à ces questions chaque jour, par la manière dont nous nous comportons au travail. Une bonne attitude est aussi contagieuse! Nous avons tous eu l’occasion de travailler au sein d’une équipe où tout le monde est enthousiaste, travaille dur, est prêt à aider. Pas de tire-au- flanc... Le temps passe vite, et on se sent bien à la fin de la journée. Nous avons tous vécu le contraire ‒ des ronchonnements, des reproches. Pas de travail d’équipe. Pas d’énergie positive. Les journées n’en finissent plus de passer, et l’on a hâte qu’elles se terminent. Comment s’assurer que nos équipes adoptent une bonne attitude? La réponse est simple : selon moi, la différence entre une équipe qui a une bonne attitude et une équipe qui a une mauvaise attitude est une question d’initiative. Si quelques personnes montrent l’exemple, elles établissent la norme, et la bonne attitude se propage. Soyez cette personne. Prenez l’initiative. Arrivez au travail avec une bonne attitude et établissez la norme. Voici ce que Doug Banes, vice-président général, a déclaré à nos délégués lors du congrès : « Réfléchissez à l’entrepreneur qui a mis fin à notre entente, ou aux propriétaires qui ne feront pas appel à nos membres pour leur proposer du travail. Était-ce une question de compétences? Ou plutôt, était-ce une question d’attitude. » VALEUR AJOUTÉE AUX SALAIRES DES SYNDIQUÉS Les fournisseurs des services offerts par Pouvoir syndical, tels Bell Mobilité, BMO, RBC Assurances, ACE et Royal LePage, sont dignes de confiance. 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Pour des services en français, composez le 1-866-239-9511 YOUR UNION UNIQUEMENT PARCE QUE VOUS ÊTES MEMBRE United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners America Pour plus de détails, visitez www.pouvoirsyndical.ca MARCH, 2010 Cashman Pro In Memoriam During last year’s Brotherhood General Convention, UBC Chief of Staff Monte Byers receives from General President Doug McCarron a bronze casting of “The Carpenter” by artist Robert Byron Gottschall. At left is UBC General Vice President Doug Banes; General Secretary-Treasurer Andy Silins is second from right. Monte Byers: Longtime UBC Chief of Staff onte Byers, longtime chief of staff for the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, died last fall following a lengthy illness. He was 51. M Byers, a member of Local 2961 in St. Helens, Ore., had earlier held a variety of other positions within the union, including editing Carpenter magazine. “No one worked harder on behalf of the members of this Brotherhood,” said UBC General President Doug McCarron. “Monte’s contributions toward the restructuring of the union, development of the International Training Center, and building our political operation can’t be overstated. “And he had such drive and enthusiasm that those around him wanted to work hard, too.” Byers’ last major assignment was in August at the Brotherhood’s 40th General Convention, where he kept the event’s many moving parts in synch. Participants said it was the bestrun convention in memory. He operated from behind the scenes, but was called to the lectern by General President McCarron to receive the union’s thanks for more than 20 years spent improving the lives of UBC members. In response, Byers spoke only 40 words, concluding with this message to his union brothers and sisters: “You know, you have been my life’s work—and it has been worthwhile. Thank you.” With that, delegates rose to cheer and, after a wave, Byers went backstage and returned to work. The In Memoriam list of deceased members can now be found on the members’ side of carpenters.org. 32 2011 Letters We Are the UBC Carpenters Wage a Timeless Fight hile these Philadelphia carpenters don’t have UBC cards in their wallets, they do exhibit the spirit of the Brotherhood by demanding workplace justice. This protest banner from 1835, almost five decades before the founding of the UBC, shows carpenters leading the fight for a 10-hour workday in the City of Brotherly Love. Their battle cry was “Six to Six” as they demanded a shift beginning at 6 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m., with two hours off for lunch and breaks. W ! ' !# % # %! ! % #!% # !! #" % #$ !& % !# (!# # &$% " #" % #$ ! % $ # & #% $ # $% * # $%# !# !&# (!# * #! %! " ( % %(! !&#$ !# & # $ #!& % %* $ !" " #$ $" * % - ) %! ). %% #* ( !($ *!& $% #$ % ! $ $ ! ! % ! $% # !# #$ ) $% % + ) %! ), " % !' $ &$ %! # # !&# # % % $%#& $ % % !# % The hand-painted silk banner—one of the oldest pieces of U.S. labor heritage still in existence and now stored in the Brotherhood archives at the University of Maryland—was displayed at the UBC’s 40th General Convention as a reminder that their fight is our fight. A 22"x 28" commemorative poster featuring the banner and describing its role in labor history is available free to UBC members, with $7.95 for shipping and handling. To order, go to the merchandise link at carpenters.org and search for “poster.” CARPENTER 33 RED, WHITE & BLUE from America’s Heartland Since 1869, through five generations, Vaughan tools have been made exclusively in the U.S.A. Although we have grown to become one of the largest manufacturers of striking tools, what hasn’t changed is our dedication to quality! Tools proudly made in Bushnell, Illinois USA. VAUGHAN & BUSHNELL MANUFACTURING CO. 32%R[0DSOH$YH+HEURQ,/ )D[ ZZZYDXJKDQPIJFRP
