Construction is booming in the American Southwest, with current and upcoming projects popping up steadily in New Mexico and Texas. Thanks to the proactive work of SMART International staff and Local 49, union sheet metal workers and local community members are set to benefit.
“Over the past several months, we have focused on proactively identifying and positioning Local 49 ahead of upcoming work opportunities across the Lubbock and Amarillo, Texas, and New Mexico markets,” said SMART International Organizer Willy Solorzano. “Working alongside Local 49 officers Erick Corona and Roy Privitt, we have taken a coordinated approach to tracking megaprojects, conducting site visits and gathering accurate, real-time information to stay ahead of workforce demands.”
Megaprojects create enormous opportunity for SMART sheet metal workers, but they can also present challenges for local unions and signatory contractors. To meet those challenges, staff have been out in the field, maintaining consistent communication to identify projects in early stages, monitor those projects’ progress and prepare accordingly. This has helped SMART stay organized, maintain up-to-date project tracking and stay ready for any upcoming opportunities.
“As a result of this approach, Local 49 staff has successfully met workforce needs on current projects without issues. All workforce requests have been filled in a timely manner, and work continues to move forward smoothly with no disruptions,” said Solorzano. “The ability to anticipate demands and maintain a ready workforce has played a key role in this success.”
What that means in practice: Local 49 members are taking on the existing work that these projects demand, and the local is positioning itself for growth — and more job opportunities — in the future. That is why we organize!
Related News
- South Carolina sheet metal worker experiences the union difference as foreperson, father
- Organizing pays off for Local 91, new signatory contractor
- Local 441 organizes big gains at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Mississippi
- Leaders train to negotiate strong contracts in revised Collective Bargaining class
- Education Department, Organizing Department hold course on organizing contractors
- NIH funding cuts contribute to lost work hours for San Diego sheet metal workers
- Local 17 steward details fight for SMART collective bargaining rights at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
- Local 20 organizes enormous growth to take on record-breaking megaproject in Indiana
- “Organizing is our lifeblood:” Benson details the role every member plays in strengthening SMART
- Local 206 member discusses pride in union solidarity
- Local 435 lifts working conditions, pay and benefits in Gainesville