The Union Difference

Unionized workers make up to 20 percent more than their non-union counterparts with similar responsibilities, education and experience. That’s because there’s power in numbers, and when we bargain collectively, we win.

Having a union means our opinions in the workplace matter, and it gives us a legal right to negotiate over the terms and conditions of our work. Every member gets a vote and a voice in our leadership, our bargaining priorities and our contracts.

Together, we fight for fair scheduling practices, push back on forced overtime and bargain for paid time off and mental health resources so that our members don’t just earn a living—they can live full lives.

From providing educational opportunities to negotiating strong contract language to advocating for better regulations and standards, our union is helping keep workers safe and healthy on the job.

A good job is about more than just a paycheck. That’s why we fight for retirement security, affordable health care, paid leave and more, so our members and their families can lead healthy, balanced lives now and into the future.

With a union contract, management can’t play favorites. Instead, it has to follow the processes we negotiate, from setting wages to awarding jobs and beyond. And, if we see discrimination in our workplaces, we have channels to fight back and ensure dignity and respect for all workers.

A union contract means security. As USW members, we can bargain for protections like seniority rules and job bidding processes. We also establish disciplinary procedures that protect workers and prevent management from harassing workers or firing them for no reason.

As a member of the USW, you have a whole team of experts fighting for you: from legal professionals to health and safety advocates to trained educators to communications specialists and so much more.