Representation

Who are the UAW and IAM and How Do They Work?

The United Auto Workers (UAW) and International Association of Machinists (IAM) are both labor unions. Labor unions are made up of workers who appoint representatives to bargain with employers on behalf of the entire workforce. When these representatives negotiate, they may give up certain privileges or benefits that employees currently enjoy. 

Without a union, employees typically negotiate these things directly with their employer or supervisor. Union members pay union dues, which are a portion of every member’s paycheck that goes towards funding the cost of negotiations, salaries for the union’s staff members, and whatever other expenses the union deems to be necessary.

What Exactly is a Strike, and How Do Strikes Work?

If a union can’t come to an agreement with the employer, the union can choose to go on strike. On a strike, union members will refuse to work and instead spend their working hours picketing outside the plant until the employer and union come to an agreement. 

Employees are not paid during a strike, but the union sometimes gives members a weekly check called strike pay. Strike pay varies by union but typically averages $500 per week, which is $12.50 per hour. 

There is usually a 1-2 week delay between the start of the strike and the first strike payment.