We have heard it all before. Clean energy is the future! The time for renewables Is now! And on.
And on.
And on.
But what does that look like, really? It can be difficult to keep up with all that is going on in the clean energy sector. Of course, many are familiar with the ‘mega-projects’ popping up across the country – battery factories, offshore windfarms, and massive infrastructure projects. In fact, there are over 144 mega projects underway or set to break ground by the end of 2024.
But billions of federal dollars are being pumped into projects across the country that we may be less familiar with. While they may not be ‘mega’ projects, these improvements and developments are just as vital to solidifying the nation’s infrastructure, improving existing energy production, and paving the way for the clean energy of the future. And, as with all federally funded projects over $35 million, many of these projects are being built under project labor agreements.
Trying to keep track of green energy developments is a job in and of itself – but thankfully somebody is doing just that. The folks over at Third Way have put together an interactive map with over 100 ongoing clean energy projects around the country. TAUC strives to keep our members as informed as possible, and utilizing all of the tools at our disposal only helps us achieve that goal. Check out the map at the link below, and check back here for updates on all things union construction and maintenance!
Check out the interactive map below!
This past weekend, President Biden confirmed his decision to not seek reelection – a decision met with uncertainty and expectation amid a tumultuous month for the sitting president. The Biden Administration authored some of the most transformative infrastructure and labor acts in recent history, pledging billions toward American infrastructure and fighting for the inclusion of PLAs on federal projects. The claim that President Biden was the most pro-union President in history was not unfounded. With his imminent exit from office and a lack of clarity on what the relationship between labor and the executive branch may look like in the months and years to come, it is important to look back on historical precedents to see if this marriage can withstand a change in leadership.
Perhaps most famously, FDR and Labor Secretary Frances Perkins’ New Deal aimed to improve wages and working conditions enough that labor unions would not be required. This principal stood at the forefront of the National Industrial Recovery Act – which much like TAUC sought to bring management, labor, and ownership together to improve all legs of the tripartite. The National Labor Relations act, known colloquially as the Wagner Act, established the NLRB a few years after the introduction of New Deal legislation and set union labor on the path to the present day.
In a semi-analogous situation to our current landscape, FDR’s pro-labor administration was followed by the Truman Administration, one that tried but largely failed to build upon the political goodwill of the American Labor force. Strikes in key sectors of the economy like steel and automotive manufacturing stifled the economy. The outcomes may have been generally positive for workers, but greatly eroded both public opinion of labor and unions, and the view of labor in the eyes of the federal government. Truman himself grew to become an “ambivalent ally” for organized labor, and the American worker suffered.
Contrasting the FDR to Truman transition of like-minded administrations when it came to labor and unions, the transition from President Jimmy Carter to President Ronald Reagan allowed the opposite situation to play out; a turn from a pro-labor administration to one that could be described as ‘aggressively anti-union’. Most famously firing the striking air traffic controllers, Reagan’s stance was clear. A few lean years in the early 80’s were followed by half a decade of economic uptick. However, the foundation of modern Conservative political philosophy of favoring management and ownership at the expense of labor took hold under the Reagan Administration.
We do not yet know which path the election will take, nor do we know precisely what the prospective nominees will do regarding unions or the construction and maintenance industry. But by further analyzing historical precedents, a clearer picture may begin to emerge.
In this episode, Kirk speaks with Nicole Schwartz, Executive Director of TradesFutures, exploring her career journey and the organization’s mission to bolster the trades. They delve into strategies for enhancing recruitment and retention, addressing labor challenges within the construction industry.
Nicole shares her unique career journey, transitioning from a Spanish teacher and pastry chef to her current role in workforce development. We delve into the mission and initiatives of Trades Futures, including apprenticeship readiness programs, childcare pilots, and partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Nicole’s diverse background provides valuable insights into how her varied experiences influence her work in promoting inclusivity and opportunity within the construction industry.
In another segment, we discuss the multifaceted aspects of workforce development and apprenticeship programs. We highlight the importance of local connections with building trades councils to align training with regional job opportunities, ensuring a robust job pipeline.
Nicole Schwartz, Executive Director of TradesFutures, brings extensive experience in education and workforce development to the position. Formerly NABTU’s Apprenticeship Readiness Program Coordinator, she oversaw 200 ARP programs nationwide. Prior to that, Schwartz taught Social Studies and Spanish in Milwaukee Public Schools and led initiatives in Restorative Practices and Positive Behavior Interventions. She holds a BA in International Affairs and Spanish for the Professions from Marquette University and a Master’s in Education from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Schwartz transitioned to workforce development in 2015, focusing on creating pathways to sustainable careers.
The Construction User 2.0 podcast is brought to you by The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC). Your host, Kirk Westwood, is Director of Marketing for TAUC. Kirk has helped many organizations tell their stories as a photographer, blogger, web-streamer, and consultant. In each episode, we’ll explore the latest labor trends, industry insights, and important issues in the world of construction. Our guests are industry leaders, subject matter experts, and innovative visionaries discussing how we are building the ‘world of tomorrow.’ TAUC is made up of more than 1,800 contractor companies that utilize union labor for their projects, as well as local contractor associations and vendors in the industrial maintenance and construction fields. TAUC’s mission is to act as an advocate for union contractors and enhance cooperation between all parties to achieve the successful completion of construction projects.
Discussion points:
- NABTU’s diversity initiatives
- Nicole’s journey includes teaching Spanish and time as a pastry chef
- Where TradesFutures finds people
- What the apprenticeship readiness programs are all about
- Childcare pilot programs – Milwaukee and NYC
- Childcare is key for full employment for communities
- You have to know where the industry stands now in order to get to new levels
- Changing scenarios in the industry require recalibration
- Looking forward into the future of TradesFutures programs
- DC focuses on making contracts easier, whatever the tech
Resources:
TAUC Construction Leadership Conference May 2024
The Construction User Magazine back issues
Read the full transcript:
The-Construction-User-2.0-Ep-28_-TradesFutures-and-Recruitment-a-discussion-with-Nicole-Schwartz-TranscriptJacob Snyder, Enerfab Chief Operating Officer and board member of The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC), testified before Congress at a hearing titled “Cutting Competition in Contracting: The Administration’s Pricey Project Labor Agreement Mandate.” This hearing was crucial in discussing the implications of Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) on the construction industry’s competitiveness and the broader implications for labor standards.
Jacob Snyder, who also serves as Management Co-Chair of the National Maintenance Agreements Policy Committee (NMAPC), brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the union construction and maintenance industry’s dynamics. He also serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Enerfab, a leading construction company known for its commitment to quality and innovation. Representing over 1,700 member companies, TAUC is a leading voice advocating for policies that support skilled union labor and ensure high-quality construction outcomes. Snyder’s testimony reflects the association’s commitment to maintaining robust labor standards and promoting fair competition within the industry.
The hearing addressed the administration’s mandate on Project Labor Agreements, which are pre-hire collective bargaining agreements that establish the terms and conditions of employment for specific construction projects. While critics argue that PLAs can increase project costs and reduce competition, TAUC contends that these agreements are essential for ensuring worker safety, maintaining high labor standards, delivering quality construction services, and refutes that PLAs have negative effects economically or in terms of project timelines.
In his testimony, Snyder emphasized that PLAs do not stand as barriers to competition, nor do they come with the increased costs and lengthened timelines often misattributed to their use on construction projects. Citing a 2022 study by Independent Project Analysis, Snyder noted higher productivity on union jobs, reduced costs, and higher levels of skill within the labor force. While he acknowledged there is a shortage of skilled labor, he noted that Enerfab has not experienced this as the use of union labor’s highly skilled craftspeople does more to assuage these deficits than the use of open shop labor.
The testimony underscores TAUC’s commitment to advocating for policies that support the union construction industry and protect the interests of its union workforce. By promoting the use of PLAs, TAUC aims to ensure that clean energy projects and other federally supported initiatives are carried out with the highest standards of safety, quality, and fairness. Jacob Snyder’s testimony is a crucial contribution to the ongoing debate on labor standards in the construction industry, highlighting the need for policies that support both workers and contractors in delivering essential infrastructure projects. His dual roles within TAUC and NMAPC, along with his leadership at Enerfab, position him as a key advocate for the industry’s future.
Watch the hearing:
This week, The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC) and the National Maintenance Agreement Policy Committee (NMAPC) are pleased to participate in the annual NABTU Legislative Conference, a cornerstone event that brings together the voices of the construction industry’s labor and management sectors. As we set up our booth at this mainstay gathering, we are reminded of the strong partnership we share with North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) and the critical role this alliance plays in advocating for the welfare and advancement of union trades across the United States and Canada.
NABTU, representing 14 dedicated trade unions, has consistently proven to be an invaluable partner to TAUC. Together, we represent a significant force in the construction industry, with TAUC incorporating over 1700 construction companies that employ skilled union tradespeople. This partnership is a shining example of Tripartite cooperation, ensuring that both workers’ rights and industry standards are not only maintained but continuously enhanced.
The NABTU Legislative Conference serves as an essential platform for us to engage directly with policymakers and industry leaders. It allows us to voice our collective interests, discuss pressing legislative and policy issues, and drive forward initiatives that support our workforce and their families. The conference also provides us with a unique opportunity to learn, share, and grow alongside our peers, reinforcing the solidarity and unity that are fundamental to our industry’s success.
We are proud to have a booth at the conference, which not only enhances our visibility but also gives us a direct line to discuss important advancements and opportunities in the industry. It’s a place where meaningful conversations happen—where the future of our industry begins to take shape through the collaborative efforts of all attendees.
As we participate in workshops, networking events, and strategic discussions, we extend our deepest appreciation to NABTU for organizing this event and for their ongoing commitment to the construction trades. Our presence here is a testament to our dedication to the continuous improvement of our industry and the livelihood of those who work within it.
We look forward to further strengthening our relationship with NABTU and all our partners as we continue to champion the rights, training, and safety of our workforce, ensuring that the construction industry remains robust and resilient for generations to come.
Join us at our booth to learn more about TAUC’s initiatives and how we are working together to build a better future for all in the union construction sector. We are here to connect, learn, and lead.
Opening Tip-off:
In the gripping climax of the Construction Industry’s March Madness, we witness the Wage Wars: Union Standards, fortified by the Davis-Bacon Act’s prevailing wage requirements, versus Non-Union Pay Scales, where wage variability is the name of the game. This final showdown is not just about numbers on a paycheck; it’s about fair compensation for hard work. Let’s see how these contenders stack up in the battle for wage supremacy.
First Quarter: Setting the Standard
Union Standards take the court with the backing of the Davis-Bacon Act, ensuring that wages meet or exceed the local prevailing standards for their work. This regulation helps maintain a level playing field, preventing undercutting and ensuring that workers are paid fairly for their skills and labor. Non-Union Pay Scales, with their more variable approach, can sometimes lead to pay rates that fall below the industry standard, affecting overall worker satisfaction and economic stability.
Second Quarter: Fair Play in Pay
As the game unfolds, the benefits of adhering to prevailing wage standards become evident. Union Standards support not only fair compensation but also contribute to a healthier local economy by ensuring workers receive wages that reflect the cost of living and industry standards in their region. In contrast, Non-Union Pay Scales’ fluctuating nature can lead to wage disparities, causing economic stress and uncertainty for workers.
Half-Time Analysis: The Economics of Equitable Wages
At halftime, the economic impact of Union Standards is clear. By setting a wage floor, they prevent a race to the bottom in pay rates, ensuring that public works projects bolster the local economy and provide decent wages. Non-Union Pay Scales, without such standardized benchmarks, risk creating a workforce where pay does not necessarily align with the skill level or regional economic conditions.
Third Quarter: The Ripple Effect of Wages
Moving into the second half, the broader implications of wage standards are in the spotlight. Union Standards help stabilize the workforce, reducing turnover and encouraging skill development and career advancement. Non-Union Pay Scales, in their inconsistency, can hinder long-term career growth and workforce development, as workers may be compelled to move frequently in search of better pay.
Fourth Quarter: The Long-Term Game
In the final quarter, the focus shifts to the long-term sustainability of wage practices. Union Standards, reinforced by prevailing wage laws, promise a sustainable economic model where workers are compensated fairly, encouraging loyalty and dedication. Non-Union Pay Scales, with their inherent unpredictability, challenge the notion of job and economic stability.
Final Buzzer: Prevailing Wage Prevails
As the game concludes, Union Standards, supported by the Davis-Bacon Act and its emphasis on prevailing wages, emerge as the clear victor, proving the value of established wage floors in promoting fair compensation and economic stability.
Post-Game Reflection:
The Wage Wars highlight the critical importance of fair and consistent pay practices in the construction industry. Union Standards, backed by prevailing wage laws, not only ensure fair compensation but also contribute to a stable and thriving economic environment for workers and the community alike.
Closing Thought:
In the clash of wage practices, the structure and fairness of Union Standards, guided by principles like the Davis-Bacon Act, demonstrate their undeniable value in creating a fair, stable, and prosperous workforce. This march through the madness of construction industry challenges reaffirms the need for wage practices that respect the dignity of labor and the economic well-being of the community.
