Contact: Jess Kamm Broomell, jkamm@usw.org, 412-562-2444
PITTSBURGH – The United Steelworkers union (USW) today announced a tentative agreement on a first contract between University of Pittsburgh faculty and the university’s administration. The deal, which would run through June 30, 2026, includes historic language on wages and job security for both full- and part-time workers.
The more than 3,000 Pitt faculty voted to organize with the USW in the fall of 2021.
“We unionized nearly three years ago so that we could have a voice in the decision-making process and increased transparency,” said Tyler Bickford, a professor in the English department, who served on the bargaining committee. “We remained united through negotiations, and our perseverance paid off with a strong contract that will help us now and provide firm foundation on which we can grow in the future.”
One of the highest priorities was a wage floor for all faculty, including visiting faculty, instructors and educators at the Falk Laboratory School, as well as part-time faculty. Workers also sought greater stability when it came to teaching and workloads, appointment renewals and opportunities for advancement.
“This contract provides greater security for faculty, which will result in better educational outcomes for students,” said Melinda Ciccocioppo, a teaching associate professor in the psychology department. “It’s a clear win for our entire university community.”
Pitt faculty will now review the details of the agreement as they prepare for a ratification vote.
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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