We have a new and flexible program. It means that 12 contractors are bidding for residential and light commercial work. Workers with this program have been consistently busy and looking at 2,000 hours a year. It means that you have an opportunity for better wages and better work. It’s really the best of both worlds — you get to do the work you’ve been doing for more pay and better protection as part of the union.

Dues are around a dollar an hour. It’s a small price to pay for the guarantee of better wages and benefits, the tools you need to do the job, and someone always looking out for you. And, it’s a lot less than what non-union contractors take out to pay for their benefits.

No. But, if you want to get more jobs and more hours, it is highly encouraged. In addition, contractors pay your way for school. This saves you thousands of dollars in out of pocket costs. Better jobs and better paychecks with someone else footing the bill, but it’s ultimately up to you.

Once you join Local 8, you are treated as an equal member of the team. You get the same privileges and representation as every other union member.

What level you start at depends on your level of experience and the types of jobs you want to do. We’ll make sure you get the right wage and benefits package. And, with contractors paying for your training, you can always work for better jobs and better paychecks.

Non-union contractors sometimes give one-time goodies like paid vacations, a truck, tools, or even a television, but it doesn’t change the fact that you’ll get a better wage and benefit package over the long term with us. It’s easy to give a $500 TV to an employee and then take $650 out of his paycheck each month for health care.

Withus, your benefits are on top of your wage. You get the tools necessary to do the job. And, contractors foot the bill if you want to get additional training to get better jobs and a better paycheck.