Union vs. Non-Union

[cowboy_dan]

The one and only union shop I worked in, the union got in the way more often than not. Quite often they wouldn't let a very knowledgable and experienced operator work in another department to fill in because someone in that department had more seniority. But, the 'senior' guy had ZERO experience on that machine, or with that part. So, we ended up delaying production of that part for 2 days until the regular operator came back.

The only people's jobs that I have seen the union protect are ons who should not have the job.
We had one other 'operator' was notorious for sleeping on the job among other things. The whole department pretty much hated him because he made them look bad. At one point he swapped a ruby tipped CNC probe with a 1.250" end mill and hit Start. That ended badly. Smashed the probe and ripped the part in half. Over 20k in tooling and casting gone in that one.


If I was in the same situation, I'd want to have a heart-to-heart talk with the employer. Things like, what are his plans for the next 5-10 years, what is the money situation look like, etc. Then make my decision.
That said, it would take a very large risk on the employer's part for me to stay with a union.

[BlackSTX]

I guess you have many concerns that must be answered. I'm very mixed on unions, as I and many of my family members have been in and out of them and not all have had very good experiences with them. Much of this may be do to the corruption within our area, maybe not.

Knowing the economy isn't looking too promising for some time to come, I guess you really need to consider how loyal this guy will be to you if you stay with him, and how much work does he have lined up?
Yes, I'm sure if you drop out of the union you'll probably be screwed..... How will you be received if you try to go back?
None of this seems to make for an easy decision; just don't make a choice to quickly. Take the time and make a pro's vs. con's list, and do what you're doing here; get a multitude of input. Someone may have had to make this same choice and have some experiences to share that makes the choice clearer.

Best of luck in your decision.

[majek5]

Here is the latest. I called my union to see what the consequences would be if I left the union. The business manager informed me that if I left and did work in my former local, I would be brought up on charges. If I do work in any other local, it is up to the other local, if I get caught! Does anyone else have experience with leaving a union, or have first hand knowlege from family or friend. Right now the work outlook sucks, so having a job is a big plus!

[Jackpine]

It really sounds like the union has full control over you. I imagine you're probably best to stay with them unless you move to a "right to work State", and can find a job.

Moving is probably not an option. I think I'd just try to make the best of things where you are.

We didn't have a union in the Air Force or at the University, so I don't really have much direct knowledge here.

- Jack

[88Racing]

What's the charges and fines going to be?
The way I look at it is whatever puts the food on the table and keeps the roof over your head.
If the owner is dedicated to his company and your dedicated to him then follow him.
But.......
Will not the owner face penalties also?
They usually do.
Peace!