How do I join the Union?

Joining this union or any other union is easier than you think. If you have a trade there is probably a union in your area. Ask someone already in the union or look it up in you local phone book. You can also call your local AFL-CIO office to find out what union is best for you.

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Then What?

Call and make an appointment with the union agent or organizer so that you can be interviewed as to your skills.

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Do I have to go through an Apprenticeship?

Not necessarily. If you have trained or have worked in a certain trade, chances are you can come in as a Journeyman' woman.

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Aren't unions clicks?

Every person who joins Local 592 is treated like family just as much as a fifty year member. Besides, if you can do the work, you will work.

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What about initiations fees and union dues?

Most unions have initiation fees and monthly and/or check-off dues. But paying dues, when your making up to 50% more in your wages and getting the benefits the union brings, is a bargain.

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What are some of the benefits?

Top of the line Health & Welfare is offered by the union. But the biggest benefit is your pension and annuity plans. The average Philadelphia cement mason can retire with 30 years at any age. With no reductions at about $2,500 per month with $250,000 in their annuity account. Anyone starting in the year 2000 will retire after 30 years with about $4,500 per month with over $500,000 dollars in their annuity.

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WOW!!!

You got that right! You still want to work non-union?

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What is the difference between International Unions and Local Unions?

The International Unions are major organizations in which local unions receive charters to operate in certain areas. Our International "The Operative Plasterers & Cement Masons International Association of the United States and Canada (OP & CMIA) was formed during the Civil War, 1864. It has 105 local unions throughout the United States and Canada. Our Local was chartered in 1916.