#United States #Oakland #North Coast States #Carpenters Union #Union Expansion

Nor Cal Carpenters Union Expands and Adopts a New Identity

In a noteworthy development, the Nor Cal Carpenters Union has announced a significant organizational transformation as it welcomes an additional 23,000 members. This expansion comes with a strategic name change to the North Coast States Regional Council of Carpenters, a move aimed at enhancing the strength and reach of union carpenters across the West Coast. The union now boasts a robust membership of 57,000, extending from Bakersfield, California, to the Canadian border.

A Moment of Pride

Jay Bradshaw, the Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the newly formed council, expressed pride in this landmark moment for union carpenters and their families. He highlighted that the merging of carpenters from northern California, Oregon, and Washington not only strengthens the union but also empowers it to secure better contracts, increase work opportunities, and grow further through unified efforts.

This consolidation reflects the changing landscape in the construction sector, where large multi-state developers and contractors are becoming more prevalent in real estate development and public works projects. According to Bradshaw, a unified council representing carpenters across these regions will provide increased leverage to improve working conditions and negotiate more favorable terms for the union's members.

Enhanced Power through Unity

"By bringing us under one union umbrella, we are parlaying strength into organizing and increasing our share of construction work. This unity allows us to build upon our past successes and leverage our collective power to secure family-supporting wages, comprehensive health insurance, and dignified retirement options for workers who have contributed significantly to our communities," Bradshaw stated.

In addition to enhancing leverage, this reorganization aims to improve efficiency and member services significantly. The operational headquarters will be based in Oakland, California, focusing on better resource allocation for organizing efforts, best practice implementation, and providing robust support to members throughout the North Coast States.

Local unions will see improvements as several smaller entities are consolidated into larger local unions, resulting in stronger bodies that can better serve and develop their members. This strategic realignment is designed to empower local unions, ensuring they have the tools necessary to train their members and amplify their collective bargaining efforts.

Welcoming New Members

The North Coast States Regional Council of Carpenters is enthusiastic about welcoming its new members from Oregon, Washington, and western Kern County. Bradshaw remarked, "As we unify under this new banner, our voices will resonate loudly from Bakersfield to Bellingham. Together, we stand stronger than ever before."

This powerful new organization represents skilled carpenters, drywallers, millwrights, pile drivers, and other affiliated crafts, advocating for fair wages, strong benefits, safe job sites, and the dignity of union labor. The North Coast States Regional Council is honored to be affiliated with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, further solidifying its commitment to protecting and advancing the interests of workers across the region.

In summary, the Nor Cal Carpenters Union’s expansion and rebranding is a pivotal step toward fostering unity and collaboration among carpenters on the West Coast. This transformational change positions the council to effectively meet the evolving challenges of the construction industry while advocating for the rights and needs of its members.