Fair Wages

It’s simple: Union workers make higher wages than non-union workers. In some industries, workers in a union make 20 percent or more than non-union counterparts with similar responsibilities, education and experience. That’s because when workers bargain collectively, they all do better. The USW has achieved historic wage gains in many of its recent contracts.

In many cases, the union difference also helps entire communities because employers raise standards across the board in order to compete.

One of the most important activities union members engage in is collective bargaining—the process of workers and their employers sitting down to negotiate a contract that covers the terms and conditions of employment.

By uniting as a strong, cohesive group, USW members have a powerful voice in these negotiations and make their workplaces better. Workers’ collective strength enables them to secure better wage rates, benefits and working conditions than individuals could achieve on their own.

The USW has experienced representatives with deep knowledge of the industries where our members work who help with these negotiations. Working together, we can secure wages that not only match the demands of the job but also recognize workers’ skills and contributions.

Contract negotiations aren’t the only place where workers fight for strong wages. We also fight to ensure that the laws and regulations governing labor are fair and equitable. USW members advocate for pro-worker public policy at the local, state and national levels. By lobbying for laws that protect workers’ rights and promote fair labor standards, we can ensure better wages across the board.

We amplify our voices by collaborating with fellow unions and labor organizations. Together, we work to bring about changes that benefit not just our members but all workers, advocating for minimum wage increases, overtime pay and other legislative measures that boost workers’ earnings.

Knowledge is power, and the USW helps members build that power by helping them gain the information and skills they need to better advocate for themselves. Through the USW’s Leadership-Scholarship program, as well as through workshops, seminars and training sessions at our regular events across the continent, members learn about their rights, how to negotiate effectively at the local level and how to participate in the union’s advocacy efforts.