Craft Unionism
Pride in Our Profession
Building a union for the Mechanics Class and Craft
Craft Unionism By Mechanics for Mechanics
Over the past 50 years Aircraft mechanics have sought a class and craft union for their profession. Many of our mechanics have committed their time and money to establish a union that represents our specific needs and goals. We achieved that type of representation finally in 2003 at United Airlines. During some of the most difficult years we provided open negotiations, mechanic locals and legal council for our membership. After 8 years of representation the mechanic membership at United Airlines were given false promises to switch representation from AMFA to the "organizing for power" teamsters union. The teamsters promised strong representation pensions and a superior contract.
After the AMFA strike at NWA many UAL mechanics wanted to return to a larger union for security, resources and negotiating strength. Many wanted a replacement pension plan. The teamsters promised all of this and more but after 8 years of poor representation it is clear the teamsters union has no place at United Airlines or in our profession.
the ideals of Craft Unionism with the strenght of the AFL-CIO
1. The establishment of a Mechanics Class and Craft Union to represent our mechanics
2. The establishment of Mechanics Class and Craft Locals to provide representation in all major hubs for UAL mechanics.
3. National and Local Bylaws that provide Democracy, Transparency and Accountability for our mechanic membership.
Our mechanics and supporters realize the importance of Craft Unionism and Union Affilitation with the AFL-CIO National State and Local Labor Councils.
We also realize the importance of being represented in a union with the financial and political resources to promote and protect the interests of our mechanics.
The Air Line Pilots Association is a great example of Craft Unionism backed by the AFL-CIO
After eight years of concessions in our contract language and poor representation most mechanics at United Airlines realize voting in the teamsters set us back 20 years.
Most of the mechanics who organized for the teamsters union regret their choice of support... only appointed and paid for teamster cronies support this failed union at UAL.
The teamsters are an inept union that has destroyed our contract at United Airlnes - Our Scope has been stripped away and as our work dwindles away the mechanic headcount continues to drop leaving us with less opportunity.
