At the very top, Labor Unions are like political parties (well at least one party I can think of) in that their main focus is the accumulation and retention of power, and clout. As we move down the hierarchy, corruption becomes more evident, and District Council presidents, business agents and prominent shop stewards seem to all have their hands out, and do not hesitate to sell out their members when it suits them to. Keep the money coming to that crowd, and work rules and even union jobs are on the table, or disregarded entirely. Refuse to play ball, and the threats begin.

Are there good elements to a Union? Of course…when they are attentive to their mission, they add a great deal of value to the industry and a project. For instance, they are well known for excellent apprenticeship and training programs…a big plus. Having a ready-made workforce show up to a new job can be a blessing. But behind the scenes is always the dark side of Unions…unrealistically driving costs with fringe benefit packages that Congressmen are envious of, and of course the constant threats and intimidation they are famous for.

Having said all this, I should stipulate that I am not a Union hater. However, the facts and history of construction unions does not lie. Nor will I.