Precast Workers Vote to Join Teamsters

Amid Anti-Union Assault, Aurora Workers Organize With Teamsters Local 673

Approximately 80 workers with ATMI Precast in Aurora have voted in favor of Teamster representation after enduring a lengthy anti-union campaign.

In an effort to prevent the Teamster victory, ATMI management screened anti-union videos, conducted captive-audience meetings and hired several union-busting consultants, while supervisors regularly wore anti-union pins. Teamsters Local 673 is now preparing to negotiate the first contract for workers, who cited a lack of respect, workplace safety and affordable health care options in their decision to organize.

“The workers were able to overcome the company’s persistent anti-union push through a combination of efforts by the local union and the organizing department of Teamsters Joint Council 25,” said Roger Kohler, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 673.

The employees—98 percent of whom are Hispanic—represent a broad range of laborers at one of the largest precast manufacturers in the tri-state area, including blasters, yard patchers, forklift operators, steel shaft welders and woodshop employees.

“The workers are in need of a fair wage for their labor and the right to a grievance procedure to address working conditions,” Kohler said. “The workers know the Teamsters will secure a better standard of living for them and their families at the bargaining table.”

Teamsters Local 673 is an affiliate of Teamsters Joint Council 25, which represents more than 100,000 hardworking men and women throughout Illinois and Indiana.

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