IBEW Local 3 Resolves Dispute with WESCO, Members Unanimously Ratify New Agreement and Return to Work

After seven days on strike, IBEW Local 3 announced this week that the union has successfully negotiated a fair agreement with WESCO. With the recommendation of the union and committee, the members unanimously ratified a new three-year agreement with wage increases in each year, appropriate increases in pension and medical contributions, and no givebacks or concessions.

This dispute would not have been successful and settled in a positive way if the workers did not come together and show that by withholding their labor, the company couldn’t function at a level even close to their normal operations. They were united and dedicated to hold the line.

“I couldn’t be prouder of our members at Wesco who stuck together and demanded a fair contract and respect in the workplace. This outcome should be celebrated and a reminder to all employers who think workers can be underestimated, mistreated, and undervalued,” said Local 3, IBEW Business Manager Christopher Erikson. “With a fair agreement in place, we look forward to a renewed relationship with Wesco moving forward.”

Support came from far and wide, providing the encouragement and backing necessary to keep the effort strong. Local 3 members from other divisions as well as members from other IBEW locals joined the picket lines and made phone calls to management expressing their support for the strikers and displeasure for the company’s actions. The wider labor movement also joined the effort, including support from the NYC CLC, the LI Federation of Labor, and the NYS AFL-CIO and respective affiliates, along with community allies like the LI Progressive Coalition and others. Congratulations to the members who stood strong and demanded a fair outcome through collective bargaining and direct labor action! Read more here.