UA — United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry
Founded in 1889
Mission and purpose
The UA describes its standard around quality, professionalism, integrity, workplace safety and productive delivery across the piping industry.
History
The organization traces its history to 1889 and represents plumbers, pipefitters, sprinkler fitters, HVACR service technicians, welders and related trades across North America.
Represented work
Plumbing, pipefitting, steamfitting, sprinkler fitting, HVACR service, welding and related piping work.
Member benefits and resources
Registered apprenticeship and continuing training for skilled pipe trades
Collectively bargained wages and benefit programs, which vary by local agreement
Workplace representation and a union voice on safety and job conditions
Paths to specialty certifications and leadership development
IBEW — International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Founded in 1891
Mission and purpose
The IBEW states that its longstanding goal is to promote excellence in the electrical industry and improve members’ lives through representation, training and professional standards.
History
Ten electrical workers met in St. Louis in 1891 to form a national union for a demanding and dangerous craft. The union now represents workers across construction, utilities, telecommunications, broadcasting, manufacturing, railroads and government.
Represented work
Electrical construction and maintenance, utilities, telecommunications, broadcasting, manufacturing, railroads and government work.
Member benefits and resources
Collectively bargained contracts and workplace representation
Industry training and apprenticeship through local and partner programs
Safety standards, education and leadership development
Pension, death and disability benefits for eligible members under applicable plans
SMART — International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers
Formed in 2008 from unions with roots in 1868 and 1888
Mission and purpose
SMART says it advocates for fairness in the workplace, excellence at work and opportunity for working families across the industries its members serve.
History
SMART formed in January 2008 through the merger of the Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association and United Transportation Union, joining two organizations with more than 200 years of combined history.
Represented work
Sheet metal, HVAC service, welding, production, sign work, freight and passenger rail, bus and transit, and related transportation work.
Member benefits and resources
Registered apprenticeship and career training in sheet metal and related crafts
Collective bargaining and workplace representation
Safety and health programs for represented industries
Member savings and benefits programs, subject to eligibility and local arrangements
This independent reference was prepared by Gulfstream Strategic Placements from the official union sources linked above. Gulfstream is a private recruiting firm and is not affiliated with, authorized by or speaking for the UA, IBEW, SMART or any local union. Benefits, dues, eligibility, referral procedures and agreements vary by local; confirm current details directly with the appropriate hall.