Contact: Jess Kamm Broomell, jkamm@usw.org, 412-562-2444
PITTSBURGH – The United Steelworkers (USW) today announced that University of Pittsburgh faculty overwhelmingly ratified their first contract since joining the union, improving job security and raising wages for more than 3,000 workers.
The deal, which will run through June 30, 2026, provides longer appointments, promotion minimums, and a smoother renewal process for non-tenure stream faculty among other protections. The agreement also sets a wage floor for both full- and part-time faculty.
“When Pitt faculty first organized with our union in 2021, it was clear that they needed a voice on the job, not only so that they could address pressing concerns about their own wages and working conditions, but also so they could improve communication and build out shared governance to the benefit of the wider university community,” said USW District 10 Director Bernie Hall, who represents USW members across Pennsylvania.
Hall said that going into bargaining, Pitt faculty identified as priorities job security and raising wages, both of which they felt would help provide needed stability for faculty and students alike.
“This contract makes tremendous progress on both these fronts, while still maintaining existing benefits,” said Hall. “Our members should be proud of all their hard work, perseverance and solidarity that paved the way for this historic win.”
The USW represents 850,000 workers employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in health care, public sector, higher education, tech and service occupations.
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