1CarpenterCarpenterTHEUNIONMANY CRAFTS ONE 2024
2LETTER EST MCGRIFFfromBrothers & Sisters, We are just completing the 2024 year as I finish my fi st year as your Executive Secretary-Treasurer. It was a very chal-lenging year, but with the dedication and effort of our lead-ership and staff, we turned the challenges into success. Over the last few years, the UBC has recognized this coun-cil as having a tremendous amount of work, which meant providing a workforce to meet the needs of all our signa-tory contractors. We have seen billions of dollar’s worth of work come into the Central Midwest Council not only today but for years to come. These billions of dollars are coming into our communities to put our members to work and pro-vide for their families a good wage, health benefits, and are securing our pensions. Organizing has been at the top for this council for many years and will still be the #1 goal for years to come. We have seen our membership grow in one year at one time to over 1,500 more members, with an increase in our Ap-prenticeship of over 1,200 throughout our training centers. The training centers have also taken on many hurdles and obstacles and continue to stay ahead of the training with growing markets in solar, clean room systems, and door safety inspections. With our creative and innovative mar-keting team, they are able to showcase and promote what both the Council and JATF have to offer for current and fu-ture members.With the dedication, effort, and support of over 37,500 members of the Central Midwest Regional Council of Car-penters, these 2024 goals were accomplished. I am very honored, humbled, and blessed to serve asyour Executive Secretary-Treasurer, and knowing this Council has more work ahead of us, our TEAM will not slow down to meet the success of our future GOALS. 2024 Council goals INCREASE MEMBERSHIP by 3%37,563 MembersINCREASE HOURS by 6%on track for 40 million work hoursCREATE 500,000 RENEWABLE HOURS on track for 3 million work hoursIn Solidarity,Matthew A. McGriffExecutive Secretary-Treasurer
3CARTA EST MCGRIFFdeHermanos y Hermana’s,Estamos terminando el año 2024, cuando termino mi prim-er año como su Secretario Ejecutivo-Tesorero. Fue un año muy desafian e, pero con la dedicación y el esfuerzo de nuestro liderazgo y personal, convertimos los desafíos en éxito. En los últimos años, la UBC ha reconocido que este Sindicato tiene una enorme cantidad de trabajo, lo que sig-nifica proporcionar una fuerza laboral para satisfacer las necesidades de todos nuestros contratistas signatarios. Hemos visto miles de millones de dólares en trabajo llegar al Central Midwest Council no solo hoy, sino en los años que vienen. Estos miles de millones de dólares están llegando a nuestras comunidades para poner a nuestros miembros a trabajar y proporcionar a sus familias un buen salario, ben-eficios de salud y stán asegurando nuestras pensiones. La organización ha estado en la cima de este consejo du-rante muchos años y seguirá siendo el objetivo # 1 en los años que vienen. Hemos visto crecer nuestra membresía en un año a la vez a más de 1,500 miembros más, con un aumento en nuestro aprendizaje de más de 1,200 en todos nuestros centros de capacitación. Los centros de capac-itación también han asumido muchos obstáculos y con-tinúan manteniéndose a la vanguardia de la capacitación con los mercados en crecimiento en energía solar, siste-mas de cuarto limpio modular, y inspecciones de seguridad de puertas. Con nuestro equipo de mercadotecnia creati-vo e innovador, son capaces de mostrar y promover lo que tanto el Sindicato como la JATF tienen para ofrecer a nues-tros miembros actuales y futuros.Con la dedicación, el esfuerzo y el apoyo de más de 37,500 miembros del Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpen-ters, se lograron estos objetivos para 2024. Me siento muy honrado, humilde y bendecido de servir como su Secretario Ejecutivo-Tesorero, y sabiendo que este Sindicato tiene más trabajo por delante, nuestro EQUIPO no se detendrá para alcanzar el éxito de nuestras METAS del futuro. Consejo PRINCIPALES 2024 AUMENTAR LA MEMBRESÍA EN UN 3% 37.563 miembrosAUMENTAR LAS HORAS EN UN 6% en camino a 40 millones de horas de trabajoCREAR 500,000 HORAS RENOVABLES:en camino a 3 millones de horas de trabajoMatthew A. McGriffSecretario Ejecutivo-TesoreroEn Solidaridad,
4As of January 1, 2024, we officiall embraced a new chapter as the Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters. This change is more than a fresh name and look—it reflects our g owth and progress as a union.Our new brand provides a stronger foundation to market ourselves, our members, and build a more concrete presence in Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. It allows us to better showcase the professionalism of members’ skills, secure more work, and cement our role as leaders in the construction industry. As we move forward together, we remain rooted in the values and traditions that UBC members have been upholding since 1881. Together, we’ll elevate all our crafts and embrace the opportunities ahead. Thank you for being part of this journey as we continue to build a stronger future.In Solidarity,Hannah ErwinDirector of Marketing,Central Midwest CarpentersFollow us on Social Media!@cmwcarpenters
Tableof Contents5CMRCC HUBS PG. 24-27Training for success pg. 12-14Political actions pg. 16-17Health & Welfarepg. 6Grand Openingspg. 20-21@cmwcarpentersMany CraftsUNIONoneCheck out what members across the council are building:PG. 11- Frank Zagar PILE DRIVERPG. 15- Justin Rogers DOOR SAFETYPG. 18- Kirk Foreman HEAVY HIGHWAYPG. 23- Bobby Mayes MILLWRIGHTPG. 28- Chris Skidmore CARPENTERPG. 31- Ron Heimel FLOOR COVERERPG. 35- Brandon Huffman INDUSTRIALPG. 19- SISTERS IN THE BROTHERHOOD PG. 22- BRIDGING MINDSDIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION, AWARENESSpg. 32-33
6The Central Midwest Council and Trustee’s #1 goal is to provide the best and most af-fordable healthcare coverage for our mem-bers and their families. We have seen a trend and rise in healthcare costs steadily for the past few years and unfortunately for fu-ture generations. We anticipate an increase in surgeries and procedures for the 2025 year, and the Trustees are looking ahead to game plan for these healthcare costs. At the start of 2025, on January 1st, the Ohio and Indiana/Kentucky plans will merge and create one healthcare plan for all of our mem-bers and families of the Central Midwest Coun-cil. This merger of all three states into one plan will provide cost savings and create more opportunities with the strength in the number of participants. This year we experienced two healthcare systems, one in Northwest Indiana and one in Northeast Ohio, discontinue their contract with Humana coverage for our re-tirees. The Council staff immediately started working with our retirees on getting coverage with other healthcare providers in the areas, so no coverage was lapsed in the transition. All participants in the Central Midwest Council, regardless of active, retiree, or family member, will be a priority of what our membership has worked for and pro-vide a healthcare plan to be proud of. IN/KY PLAN: reserves as of 12/31/2023 are at 8.4 monthsOHIO PLAN:reserves as of 12/31/2023 are at 4.8 months MEDICAL BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION FIXED COST FULL SERVICE:Based on the Monthly Administrative Fee PMPM (Per member, per month)H & WYEAR OF 2025: COSTS15,000 – 50,000 $26.0550,001 – 75,000 $24.2775,001 – 100,000 $23.59100,001 – 150,000 $22.63150,001 + $22.08HEALTH AND WELFARE
7Carpenters Caring’s goal has always been to assist members in their time of need. Since inception, the Carpenters Caring committee has provid-ed assistance to all our crafts and their imme-diate family members in their time of need. To date, we have been able to provide much-needed help to over 157 mem-bers and their families, donating over $220,000.Please reach out to your local business represen-tative to formally file an application for consid-eration. Any member can fill out the applica-tion on behalf of another member. It is important to note that a member must be in good stand-ing to receive consider-ation. For any questions, please contact your local business representative, who will be able to walk you through the process.$58,400 raised from golf outing, 34 teamsLocals across the council hold fundraising events for Carpenters Caring.CMRCC is committed to supporting members and those in need across the UBC. In response to this year's deadly hurricanes in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, CMRCC donated $25,000 each to the Southeastern Carpenters and the Florida Regional Councils.
“8The Central Midwest Carpenters (CMRCC) recently hosted our fi st Carpenter Com-bine in Indianapolis, following the success of similar events by the Michigan and Western States Regional Councils of Carpenters. Over two-hundred individuals participated, showcasing their skills through a series of physical tasks and indus-try-related exercises. The event attracted local contractors seeking to hire skilled workers, while also offering an opportunity for attendees to join the union.Planning for the combine required months of coordination and logistical work, drawing on insights from previous events. The CMRCC worked closely with local schools, organizations, and media outlets, including a partnership with FOX59 for event promotion. The collaboration between CMRCC staff, local busi-nesses, and community groups helped ensure the event’s success. OrganizingOrganizingI THINK IT WAS A GREAT EVENT AND HIGHLIGHTED MY STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESS-ES AND I GENUINELY ENJOYED MYSELF AND APPRECIATED THE OPPORTUNITY […] -COMBINE PARTICIPANT
“9At the heart of the Central Midwest Carpen-ters lies every single one of our members. The sense of community that binds us has been cultivated through training, working, and figh -ing for workers’ rights together. The spirit of this community is perpetuated by individuals who promote inclusivity and leave their mark on the organization and the people around them. Each year, we honor a union member who shares these values, and few people have exemplified this ore than Don Sherry.Don Sherry served the Central Midwest Car-penters with uncompromised passion for al-most twenty years as a Business Representa-tive, Director of Organizing, and President of Carpenters Local 175 in Louisville, Kentucky until his passing in 2017. Don fought tirelessly for workers’ rights and the union in its entire-ty. Colleagues say his unwavering dedication to this organization was second to none. To pay our respect for everything Don Sherry did – and to continue his legacy – The CMRCC annually gives out the Don Sherry Achievement Award.The Central Midwest Carpenters are beyond proud to announce the 2024 recipient of the Don Sherry Award goes to Robert (Bob) Wright.Bob Wright has been an integral part of Carpen-ters Local 744 out of Bellevue, Ohio for the last 24 and a half years, as well as the entirety of the UBC. Across multiple locals, Bob made it his mis-sion to cultivate a sense of community on the jobsite. From sharing his experiences and knowl-edge with younger members, to routinely pick-ing up retirees from his community and bringing them to local meetings to ensure they could at-tend, Brother Wright epitomizes the spirit of our Union.Robert has taken part in various volunteer opportunities, from being the fi st to sign up for com-mittees, to spearheading community outreach and projects such as improving accessibility and safety in his area. Bob also continuously spreads the word about the benefits of the UBC to youth in his area and students in local schools.Help the apprentices, help the old grumpy carpenter, carry their tools, carry their materi-als, drive them to a meeting.-ROBERT WRIGHTBrother Wright has been an inspiration, mentor, and leader for countless UBC members for the past 24-plus years. His initiative, commitment, and dedication not only brought community awareness to the CMRCC but also fostered a positive profession-al work environment and job site culture. He is a true example of what a professional UBC member should strive to be.While recognizing the amazing efforts of members like Brother Wright, we acknowl-edge and appreciate the multitude of oth-ers who work with-in and throughout our communities, driving the progress we see and benefitfrom in our daily lives. We excitedly await the op-portunity to honor these altruistic members through the Don Sherry Award for many years to come.Don SherryAWARD WINNER
Every year, UBC contractors are un-dercut by unscrupulous contractors. From mis-classifying workers to out-right not paying overtime or hiring labor brokers to underbid and undercut honest companies, the issue of construction tax fraud continues to hurt our members and communities.Workers suffer $1.9 billion in overtime wage theft. Workers’ compensation in-surers lose $5 billion to employer pre-mium fraud. State and federal tax loss-es amount to $10 billion a year. Leaving working families to suffer a $5.1 billion tax increase because crooked employers shift their own responsibility to pay employment taxes onto their workers’ backs.COSTS TO TAXPAYERS (includes, unemployment insurance, SS/MC, fed/state income tax)INDIANA: - $140MKENTUCKY: - $96MOHIO: - $287M The UBC challenges each council to take action and raise aware-ness over tax fraud in the con-struction industry. This year, the Central Midwest Carpenters held an event to STAND UP TO TAX FRAUD in Valparaiso, Indiana at the Histor-ic Porter County Courthouse. Over 90 members were in attendance and 15 local offica stopped by to show their support for the cause.10Statistics from study by The Century FoundationTFDOATAX FRAUD DAYS OF ACTION
11Frank Zagar comes from a long line of Union pile drivers. He’s a third-generation union member and is honored to uphold the strong tradition in his family. He’s been in the union for over 20 years and is now dedicated to growing his craft by teaching the next generation of union members at our training center in Richfield, OHSimply put, piledriving is the foundation upon which the other crafts build. This relationship between crafts is something that makes the Central Midwest Carpenters so powerful Frank discussed this relationship by saying, “Everyone is working together – one craft starts and another comes in and continues where they left off.” He alluded to the fact that this symbiotic relationship strengthens the bond he feels with his union brothers and sisters, regardless of their craft. Piledriving is an extensive craft that runs deeper than most people realize. When people think of piling, they generally think of building the base of a building. Driving into the ground to build a strong foundation is, in fact, the crux of what piledriving is – but the areas, conditions, and objectives of each jobsite vary drastically. For instance, piledrivers build foundations for skyscrapers, set piles for piers and docks, and even perform ecological jobs like shore retention.Frank’s favorite forms of piledriving are those in and waterways, such as the Cuyahoga River and Cleveland Harbor, to name a few he’s worked on. The added layer of difficult(and risk association) is something that Zagar has sought out throughout his career. According to Frank, successful jobsites are about mitigating risk, looking out for your fellow brothers and sisters, and teaching the next generation how to perform at the highest level.This is precisely the reason Frank is an instructor at the Richfield Training Center in Ohio. He wants to expand the Central Midwest Carpenters’ reach when it comes to piledriving. “This is such a cool line of work. We just want more people aware of everything we do,” Zagar said when asked why he took on the role in the training center. He genuinely enjoys teaching people his trade. “These kids coming up are self-motivated and hungry […] They want to get out there and make money doing this, so all I have to do is steer them in the right direction,” he said about the prospective pile drivers in the program currently. This attitude is precisely why he believes now is the opportunity to grow piledriving as a craft. The interest is at a high level, so all he has to do is generate awareness for what piledrivers do daily.As is a common theme with all our fellow union members, the brotherhood is Frank’s favorite part about being in the Central Midwest Carpenters. He tries to instill this value in every apprentice he teaches: “Love your brother. They’ll be there when you need them the most,” Zagar said when asked what is the most important advice he gives apprentices. From being on dangerous jobsites with heavy machinery suspended overhead to pep talks before you even get to the job in the morning, yourunion brothers and sisters are there for you.
12TrainingTrainingProjected Total Training Hours for 2024IN/KY: 432,411 HRS OH: 318,753 HRS Graduates IN/KY: 445OHIO: 355Total Apprentices IN/KY: 4,571OHIO: 2,701
13REINTRODUCING: CODE TRAININGThe new UBC CODE (Compliant Openings, Doors, and Egress) program, a refreshed ver-sion of the former DSI, has become an essential part of our curriculum. Door Hardware 2 (DH2) is now the primary course, equipping members with critical skills in door hardware installation and compliance. For those interested in further specialization, the original DSI course remains available and can be taken at the request of contractors, though DH2 is encouraged as the foundational course. To support this enhanced focus, we’re actively building new door mock-ups, investing in cutting-edge hardware, and expanding course offerings to include electri-fied a d advanced hardware systems.There has been a rise in interest from both contractors and members, looking to gain the credentials to perform this inspection work due to the passing of Ohio’s Senate Bill 112, the Ohio Childhood Safety Act, requiring school build-ings to comply with national life safety stan-dards for the inspection and performance of certain doors and door hardware [see page 17].YOUTH OUTREACHBoth training funds held successful open hous-es throughout their training centers this year. Over 8,300 high school students walked through the facilities with hands-on activities, vendors, contractors, and more. During their two-day open house in October, the IN/KY JATF also cel-ebrated the grand opening of the Grayson Cam-pus extension [see page 20]. APPRENTICE EDUCATION: CARPENTER CIVICSIn June, the training centers, in conjunction with the Council, launched a new class to introduce apprentices to legislation and issues that di-rectly affect UBC members. This non-partisan initiative was co-taught by instructors and CM-RCC Representatives serving as political leads. Topics covered the importance of voting, the impact of legislative decisions on their trade (such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Chips and Science Act, and the Infl tion Reduc-tion Act), and core carpenter issues, including prevailing wage laws, certified payroll, respon-sible bidder ordinances, and more.
14DEIGOTVOPC212.300’S3 DAY EVAL18-MONTH SUP3RD YEAR APPMILLWRIGHTSDELEGATE TRAININGCOLLABORATIVEJOBSITE SUP/FOREMANSTAFF EXCELLENCEFINANCIAL OFFICER/TRUSTEECOACHING FOR MENTORSSTAFF EXCELLENCE/FRONTLINEPRESENTERS TO INFLUENCERSRENEWABLE ENERGYITC TRAININGITC TRAININGGraduation 2024CMRCCSENT1,118The graduation ceremony was not just a culmina-tion but a new beginning. The apprenticeship pro-gram prepares UBC members, not only for their job, but for a lifelong career as mentors. Journey-men and women are mentors to the next genera-tion of apprentices, a big responsibility for the fu-ture of our organization. At our 2024 graduation ceremonies, we heard from special guests UBC GP Doug McCarron, Ohio State Senator Michael Rulli, UBC Senior Technical Coordinator and for-mer CMRCC Instructor Andy Carr, UBC Midwest-ern VP and former CMRCC EST Mike Kwiatkowski.CLASSES & CONFERENCES
15Justin Rogers joined Carpenters Local 285 in 2015. He loved framing, interior systems, and every facet of being a union carpenter. It wasn’t until a friend of his introduced him to door inspection and installation that he considered a change for himself. The friend owned his own automatic door company and had a constant stream of work coming in that sounded appealing to Justin, so he decided he’d give the world of doors a chance.Justin’s friend unfortunately had to sell his company shortly after this, which gave Justin yet another idea. Since he had been learning all he could about the craft, he decided to start his own door installation and inspection company in 2022.It wasn’t easy-going by any stretch of the imagination, but through hard work, dedication, and approaching every obstacle as a learning experience, Clark-Anthony Construction L.L.C. was born. The hurdles in terms of starting a business were plentiful, but Rogers was committed to learning everything he could to make this venture successful. The company is flourishing now, but it isn’t without its new set of challenges. From making sure every single employee feels appreciated to getting every certific tion he can obtain, Justin has his hands full.As a business owner, Justin analyzed everything he liked and didn’t like about each place he worked prior and fi e-tuned what he offered to employees based on his experience. “If you put effort into us, we’ll make sure you’re taken care of,” Justin said about how he models his relationship with his employees. From supplying company cars and paying for gas to giving Christmas bonuses to each employee every year, Rogers is holding up his end of the bargain because his team does such great work. Owning and operating his own company still means there is constant work. "Every building has at least one door… And that door [not only] needs to be built but inspected and maintained,” Justin says. For now, their biggest sources of work are retail spaces, such as Home Depot, CVS, Target, and others. They also have contracts with the local government in their area, working in county buildings, correctional facilities, and schools. With all this work coming in, Justin makes sure to keep connected to his crew because he was in their shoes. He knows what it’s like to be a union apprentice or journeyman. Door inspection doesn’t come without its stressors, however. Safety and regulations are of the utmost importance in this field. If a door inspector or installer approves a door when they shouldn’t and someone gets hurt because of that, the company is liable for that individual. For instance, a local business recently reached out to Justin after a patron got seriously injured by an automatic door that another company installed and inspected. Rogers’ crew went in, quadruple-checked the door, and failed it on inspection, proving how important being thorough is in this line of work.Justin, with the help of the Central Midwest Carpenters, is fighting to get legal mandates for how often doors need to be inspected and maintained. For Rogers, ensuring safety, not only for his crew but for everyone who uses a door he’s installed or inspected, is the highest priority. This attention to detail is a quality that can be found in any craft that falls under the Central Midwest Carpenters. Our members are setting the standard as business owners, workers, and productive members of our communities.
16With this year’s election cycle behind us, the CMRCC Political Team has begun evaluating all the wins and losses. Though we were not successful in some of the most important races, such as the re-election of Ohio US Senator Sherrod Brown, we are proud of the fact that, of the 174 recommendations that we made, we were successful in 168 races. This has put us in a very good position as we move into 2025.To build on our success, we will continue to educate the newly elected lawmakers and those successful in their re-election of the importance we bring when building our roads, our bridges, our hospitals, and our manufacturing facilities. They need to know that regardless of party affil tion, we build America.We fully anticipate that with the amount of support that we now have, we will be able to protect all of our labor issues and even introduce legislation to further advance our position. Our simple approach of bringing lawmakers to our training facilities and onto jobsites has paid off.
17Elections shape the policies that impact carpenters’ livelihoods, from prevailing wage and union rights to workplace safety and infrastructure investments. By engaging in the political process, our members ensure their voices are heard and their priorities addressed. This year, we introduced a political education class in conjunction with the training centers. The goal of this class was to educate apprentices in the core issues impacting our trades. In the 2024 election, carpenters didn’t just show up at the polls—they rolled up their sleeves. Members volunteered, made phone calls, knocked on doors, and attended events to support candidates who stand with working people. CMRCC held a member event in support of United States Senate Candidate in Ohio, Sherrod Brown. We were grateful to host Senator Brown, UBC General President Douglas McCarron, UBC GP Chief of Staff Anthony Peña, UBC General Executive Secretary-Treasurer Mark McGriff, UBC Midwestern District Vice President Mike Kwiatkowski, CMRCC member from Local 2 Steve Sprague, and more. A massive thank you to everyone who contributed. Your dedication and hard work prove the power of collective action. Together, we’re not only building structures but working to shape a brighter future.The Ohio Childhood Safety Act is a landmark victory for our Council. This important legislation, introduced by then State Senator Michael Rulli, underscores the critical role that proactive safety measures play in protecting Ohio's children. Central to the Act is the requirement of regular door inspections in K–12 schools, addressing hazards that could cause preventable injuries.The Central Midwest Carpenters Union played a key role in developing this bill. Senator Rulli, recognizing our expertise and strong relationship, approached us to help craft the legislation. Behind the scenes, we worked tirelessly to ensure the bill reflec ed the highest safety standards while remaining practical.Beyond the immediate safety benefits, the Act creates meaningful opportunities for our union carpenters. Using our CODE Training (formerly DSI), UBC members are ready for this task. Regular inspections and necessary repairs mean more work hours for our members and signatory contractors.The Ohio Childhood Safety Act is a huge legislative win for our council, training, political leads, CODE leads, and most importantly, our membership.
18UBC POC CONFERENCESisters in the Brotherhood had their very fi st Point of Contact (POC) conference in November at the UBC headquarters in Washington DC. This conference was attended by women in leadership roles across the UBC, joining together to understand the point of contact rules and responsibilities. UBC’s Director of Sisters in the Brotherhood, Sandra Rodriguez, and UBC General President Douglas McCarron spoke focusing on how to gain and retain brothers and sisters. Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference 2024Over 5,000 tradeswomen from across the country gathered in New Orleans for the Tradeswomen Build Nations event hosted North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU). “The most impressive thing was thousands of tradeswomen walking through the streets of New Orleans chanting ‘UBC’,” CMRCC Repre-sentative and member of local 744 Casey McManis said of the event.New Rep & SIB CHAIR LOCAL 285"SUCCESS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH WHAT YOU GAIN IN LIFE OR ACCOMPLISH FOR YOURSELF, IT'S WHAT YOU DO FOR OTHERS."While I was in the field I did oncrete/bridge work, from Johney systems & gang forms to Simon panels. I truly enjoyed every minute of it, no matter the bridge or the forms I looked forward to the crew and making the long days fun.My goal everyday is this position is to gain membership, build our sister numbers up & help people any way I can. Outside of the job, I love doing volunteer work!
19“The key to staying safe and getting the job done? Foreman says it’s communication. Everyone looks out for everyone on a jobsite and tells each other what they need to succeed. Every day in bridgework is different, so each is an opportunity to learn something new and gain new skills. We use all the tools and machinery in the world, but without effective communication, it’s worthless. Now, Kirk gets to pass his knowledge and skillset onto his son, who joined the union this year and works on the same jobsite as his father. “Watching him transform into the next union carpenter is s o rewarding," Foreman said about getting the opportunity to work with his son. They both get to tell their friends and family that they built these. On top of everything that makes building bridges rewarding, Foreman says, is the brotherhood and bonds that are created on jobsites. Everyone is there to accomplish the same goal. “You’re around your coworkers more than your family in some cases. Those people become your family.” Regardless of the craft, the Central Midwest Carpenters revolves around this idea of Kirk Foreman has been surrounded by union workers for a good portion of his life. His brother joined the Carpenters Union at 18 and hasn’t looked back for the past 20+ years. After noticing the trajectory his brother’s life was headed, Kirk wanted in on the action too. He decided to join the Laborers Union in 2019 – working on bridges for Beaty, a contractor out of central Indiana. Kirk wanted more, however. He wanted to be able to put in the work and say he built these roadways and bridges people drive on every day. He wanted to be able to help his contractor more than he was able to at the time and contribute to any job he was on. His answer? He joined the Carpenters Union in 2020, and recently graduated the appenticeship in October of this year.He hasn’t looked back since. He’s involved in all processes around the jobsite from piling to decking, and everything in between, Kirk is keeping America moving. As has been a common theme for our crafts here in the Central Midwest Carpenters, the job doesn’t come without its own set of hazards.Piling 90-120ft and beyond is necessary for bridges. Anytime you’re that deep into the earth, there’s a possibility for anything to go wrong at any point. Additionally, there’s the risk of drivers. Unfortunately, 123 construction workers lose their lives yearly on roadway jobsites. Mitigating this risk is a huge part of why Brother Foreman is so thankful for not only his contractor for making sure safety regulations are followed, but also for the union apprenticeship for instilling the value that safety has every day on the job.Craft SpotlightCraft SpotlightKIRK FOREMAN, HEAVY HIGHWAYMost Important Tool: Tape Measure
Grayson, KYThis year, a state-of-the-art, 14,000-square-foot addition was opened at the Grayson, Kentucky training center. This features new classrooms, heavy machinery for certific tions, and new welding booths. The ribbon-cutting event was a great success, with guest speakers such as Governor Andy Beshear. This training center was also dedicated to Jerry Burke, whose family was in attendance. We’re incredibly pleased to be able to continue training the next generation of Union Carpenters here in the Grayson, Kentucky area!20Columbus, OhThe new Columbus Council building (1950 Arlingate Ln.) is officiallopen and operational. With the new o e just 500 feet away from the Columbus Training Center and prior building (allowing the JATC to expand), communication between the council and JATF is still seamless!Grand openingsGrand Openings
South Bend, INThis 8,200 square-foot building near the Indiana Toll Road and US-31 Bypass features eight o es (with more room to expand), two conference rooms, a training room, and a meeting space. On top of the tasks our representatives do daily, this building holds journeymen upgrade classes and hosts community & political events!Nearing 125 years, Local 413 is keeping history alive in South Bend. Installed in their new home, a light fixtu e from the old UBC International in Indianapolis, and the Local 413 Charter signed by UBC's Peter J. McGuire himself.21Grand openingsGrand Openings
22We’re thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 Central Midwest Regional Council of Car-penters Scholarship Program! Forty students have been awarded a $1,000 scholarship each, which can be utilized towards tuition, room and board, or books for their cho-sen trade school or college.Similar to previous years, twenty recipients were selected based on their exceptional high school grade point average and SAT or ACT scores. Additionally, another twen-ty recipients were chosen through a random selection process.These deserving recipients are the sons, daughters, and dependent children of members belonging to the Central Midwest Regional Coun-cil of Carpenters and Millwrights. We are immensely proud of these bright individuals and wish them all the best in their future endeavors. Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact you will undoubtedly make in your respective fields. ongratulations once again!We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the following individuals for being awarded the 2024 CMRCC Scholars:Ella AlbeeBraylon BeckwithJackson BeierThomas BlahaMakinna CaudillJoseph DunnEthan EhrhardtIsaiah EveJacob FincherAbigail FordChanning FoxIsabella GilliamAlexis HoodBrock JenkinsAnneliese LarsenMadison LichtyOlivia MorrisEmma NordykeClaudia OrtizCamden PriceReese RettigMeagan RiniNicholas RossTrever RoyBrooklynn SalleeIleana SartorAlexis SchulteMackenzie SchultzAllie ShawKylie ShawEmma SinnDalton SmithOlivia SpringerAddison TalagaEva TaylorLexi TucciAaron TurnerHannah WalshAlexa WilleyRowyn WoodyardScholarshipScholarship
23Craft SpotlightCraft SpotlightBOBBY MAYES, MILLWRIGHTBobby Mayes got his love for machinery and moving parts at an early age, living and working on a farm with his family. He pursued his interests by becoming an electrical engineer and designing the machines he grew fond of. Over the next four years, Mayes grew tired of the "o e work" his job lent itself to daily and decided it was time for a change. But how would he fulfill his fascination with moving parts and machinery if not for engineering? Mayes had a friend introduce him to turbine work and, naturally, millwrighting. Getting his start in turbines opened a world of opportunities – from traveling the globe to becoming an irreplaceable cog in the renewable energy movement – millwrights keep the world spinning. Bobby's favorite parts of the craft are fi ding and working through challenges. We often hear, carpenters work in sixteenths, while millwrights work in thousandths, and this is true. If off by a fraction of a degree, the entire machine ceases to work properly. “All of the tricks, tools, and skills you learn on each jobsite get brought onto your current project,Mayes said when discussing what makes turbine work so appealing. Bobby also credited the union apprenticeship with equipping our millwrights with the building blocks to construct a successful career. He tells his apprentices in the field,“The day I come into work and don’t learn something, I might as well retire… which is funny because then I’d never retire.”But where does turbine work fall in the grand scheme of jobs that Bobby works on?Mayes equates what he does as "creating the motor to a car". It’s the guts of the project that keeps everything running smoothly. With a project that is as important as this, Mayes is quick to redirect accomplishment and notoriety to the people he works with.Bobby is very persistent with the idea that it’s not just him. Being a millwright and working on turbines are not lone-wolf projects – it takes the coordinated effort of everyone around to get the job done. The team – and consequentially, union brothers and sisters – Mayes works with is what makes him feel important in his roles.The unique challenges, skillsets, and people are what make being a millwright so special to Bobby. Connecting with brothers and sisters, teaching them what he’s learned, and learning from their experiences is what drives him to succeed on every jobsite he steps on. Most Important Tool: Micrometer
24Central Midwest Carpenters are at the forefront. Major infrastructure projects are underway, with our union members driving the work that will reshape the area for years to come.One of the standout projects is the State Route 8 High Level Bridge over the Cuyahoga River. This 909-foot bridge connects Akron and Canton, carrying 17,000 vehicles daily. The bridge’s $58.6 million renovation will take over two years to complete, providing steady work for local Carpenters and Piledrivers. The bridge, which stands 200 feet above the river, serves both traffi lanes and pedestrian sidewalks.Beyond the bridge, 2024 has brought significant upgrades to the region’s highways, including the SR 8/I-77/I-76 Interchange and expansions of I-77 and I-76. These projects are vital for improving safety and effici cy for thousands of daily travelers. Additionally, multiple bridge replacements are in progress, further modernizing the area’s transportation network. Infrastructure is crucial to the well-being of our communities, and it's the skilled work of union carpenters that makes these important projects a reality.REPORTS ACROSS THE COUNCILfromThe biggest project in the Grayson Hub’s history began this year. The Honda High Lite Project is a 4.4-billion-dollar battery manufacturing facility in Jeffersonville, Ohio. When completed, this plant will manufacture EV batteries for Honda’s new line of electric vehicles. The scope of work for the Carpenters was not only fast-paced to get the foundations in but complicated with various types of panel systems and blueprints that changed regularly. Once the foundations were in place and the steel went up, a new obstacle appeared for our members.The Southern Ohio-Northeastern Kentucky region hadn’t previously experienced much, if any, work with cleanroom/dryroom panels. CMRCC Representatives worked closely with the Grayson Training Center to get members prepared for the new task. When the new panels arrived at the training center, they started putting as many classes as possible on evenings and weekends for anyone interested in the job. Soon, the instructors would work the cleanroom training into apprenticeship classes to get ahead of the need.While the council has seen several, this is the fi st EV battery plant in the Grayson Hub’s area. With close to a thousand members onsite now and up to 1,300 at peak in February 2025, the pressure to provide the quality work UBC members are known for is higher than ever. With the combination of our training, productivity, and attentiveness, the goal is for other EV manufacturers to take notice and build their facilities in this region with our union carpenters and millwrights.In 2024, the Akron/Canton region is buzzing with construction, and AkronAshland
25The Regional Council has been promoting our Infection Risk Assessment Awareness (ICRA) training for years. The biggest success story comes out of Cleveland, where we have partnered with one of the world’s largest healthcare systems, Cleveland Clinic. Because of this partnership, there is currently $1.6 billion in ongoing projects with the organization. In addition to working with Cleveland Clinic, members are also staying busy wrapping up projects with University Hospitals and MetroHealth.Looking forward, the outlook remains bright in the Cleveland market thanks to a political win. On September 4th, the Mayor of Cleveland, Justin Bibb, signed an executive order mandating Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) for all city-funded projects. PLAs ensure certain requirements, including wage standards, fringe benefits, and hiring local workers that help secure future work with union contractors. Through education, early intervention, and building relationships, we can celebrate wins, like this one, for our membership for years to come.The Columbus Hub has been exceptionally busy in 2024, focusing on the recruitment and organizing of new members to meet the growing demands of projects in the area. One of the largest projects in the UBC, the Intel semiconductor facility, is well underway now. The Bechtel project is now going vertical after two years underground doing footers, foundation walls, waterproofing, etc.; it is about 8% complete. The singular site features an impressive 29 cranes, including one of the largest in the world, named Ms. Armstrong. The crane can lift 5.5 million pounds and is taller than two of the Statue of Liberty!Central Ohio’s construction boom is driven by a surge in infrastructure development, especially around the Intel facility, which includes multiple data centers (companies like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft investing billions of dollars alone), hospital expansions, heavy road construction, a $900 million wastewater facility, a one-billion-dollar Linde Gas Plant, and more.This year, the Columbus Hub has successfully increased its membership by over 700 new members. The recruitment efforts have involved outreach programs, training sessions, and partnerships with local vocational schools to attract individuals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a well-rounded and inclusive membership base. This growth reflects both the region’s high demand for skilled labor and the Hub's commitment to relationship-building and organizing.2024, for the Evansville Hub, was all about renewable energy. Unique projects in this space helped grow the Hub’s reported work hours, which are on track for over $2.5 million this year, and membership numbers over 7%.Projects include a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), a project supporting energy storage for renewable sources, in Petersburg, Indiana. The Petersburg Solar Project added to the Hub’s portfolio of renewable energy initiatives. The Hub also contributed to a hydroelectric dam project in Eddyville, Kentucky. Another impressive renewable project was Ascend Elements, an innovative facility that recycles critical battery components.Beyond renewable energy, members are still hard at work erecting scaffolding and performing maintenance at all the local power facilities, including Alcoa, Culley, Kaiser, Sabic, Duke Station, AES, AEP, AB Brown, and many more.The IU Methodist Hospital project set to become one of the largest single-campus hospitals in the United States is proudly being built by union carpenters. Spanning two city blocks in downtown Indianapolis, the $4 billion facility features three 16-floortowers rising 700 feet. This state-of-the-art hospital includes vertical concrete, interior systems, acoustical ceilings, doors, flooring, casework, and specialized features like clean rooms and Millwright services. At its peak, the project will have 400 members. Significant political efforts ensured the project was under a PLA, reinforcing the importance of educating elected officialMeanwhile, the Statehouse Dome restoration highlighted a team of our skill scaffolders. Led by General Contractor Glenroy and Scaffold King, the project involved intricate interior and exterior scaffolding built over 8,000 work hours by a 10-person crew. Completed in just three months, this scaffold system enabled crucial window repairs and dome cleaning to an iconic Indianapolis landmark.EvansvilleCOLUMBUSClevelandGreenwood
26From attending countless career fairs to participating in community events, the Hub focused on strengthening ties with contractors, promoting our union, and preparing its workforce for the massive projects ahead. The year was spent negotiating historic wage increases and organizing, laying a foundation for growth and opportunity. Many of the area members spent the year either working up at the Columbus Hub’s Intel project or Grayson Hub’s Honda Plant. Beginning next year, members will have their own megaproject close to home.As 2025 approaches, the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project stands out as a game-changer. With boots set to hit the ground by late 2025, this $3.6 billion undertaking will employ over 100 carpenters at its peak, offering six years of consistent work. Additionally, upcoming projects like the Western Hills Viaduct and Veterans Memorial Bridge further amplify the scope of opportunity for union members.Every April, the UBC combats construction industry tax fraud, and this year, the CMRCC celebrated a victory in Toledo. The city created a new role, Commissioner of Wage and Hour Compliance, to enforce the Responsible Bidder Ordinance (RBO). Rossford Hub Representatives worked tirelessly in 2017 to get an RBO signed Giving back is what UBC Carpenters do. In the Louisville area, they have been working overtime to give back to their community. Through Metro United Way, our members participated in their Build-a-Bed program, building over 200 beds for kids in need.The beds are donated to students of Clark and Floyd Co. School System; as identified by the school guidance counselors and staff members. Beds go to students identified as underperforming who may not be getting a good enough night's sleep to capitalize on their learning potential. UBC members used their skills to help prepare materials to build another 100 beds for the organization Sleep in Heavenly Peace. From building walkways to decks, they were also involved in supporting Repair Affair, a program through Harrison County Community Services that provides minor home repairs to senior citizens and disabled individuals.When Dunns Bridge Solar Farm II was announced in the Merrillville Hub region, it was the fi st solar project for UBC members in the area. This meant the Central Midwest Carpenters had a lot of work to do. Because of a unique racking system on the project, the GameChange system, we needed new mockups for the training centers and needed to work quickly. Through collaboration with the training centers, we got over a thousand members trained on solar before they even moved dirt.Northwest Indiana's Dunns Bridge Solar Farm II, developed by NextEra Energy Resources, is scheduled for completion by late 2024. The project pairs 435 megawatts of solar power with 75 MW of battery storage and features 1.5 million solar panels—enough to power thousands of homes with clean, renewable energy.The Merrillville Hub organized hundreds of new union carpenters and millwrights to meet the workforce needs of this massive project. There came a time when Representatives were sending an additional 200 carpenters in under 30 days—an unprecedented pace. They were diligent, not missing a single call-out for members. The peak of this project was 425 full-time UBC members, collectively logging over 550,000 work hours.Reports ContinuedReports ContinuedMERRILLVILLERossfordMonroeLOUISVILLE
27on the project. We found out who our friends were and weren’t while fighting for this project for the last decade. Further evidence that relationship building is imperative, and elections have consequences. This is a 25-million-dollar project that will be built by Union Carpenters. Contractors on the site include Hagerman, Beaty Construction, Quality Walls and Ceilings, and more to be announced as the project moves along.“Steel Valley," the nickname given to the easternmost part of Ohio for its rich history producing the product dating back to the 1800s. Youngstown, Ohio, has seen its fair share of instability since the iconic steel plants shuttered during the industry crisis of 1979. However, the region is entering a new restoration era in the manufacturing and power production sectors especially.Projects like Trumbull Energy, Trinity Health St. Clairsville, R&L Carriers expansion, new schools Crestview & United, Industrial Park expansions, and current powerplant outages along the Ohio River have been keeping members busy and the region aflo t.Looking to 2025, the possibility of the Steel Valley’s new direction is very likely with projects like Kimberly Clarks’ new paper mill plant in Warren, Ohio, solar projects in Steubenville, and Cadiz, a battery material handler looking to invest $435 million to build a graphite plant in Warren, Ohio, a possible maritime Naval maintenance plant, a magnesium plant, and another Cogen plant in Harrison County, and more. Youngstown Representatives are focused on securing the billions of dollars in future work will go to our union carpenters and millwrights. in this market, building relationships, educating lawmakers and the public about its benefits o the city.This RBO applies to public and private work being performed within the city limits. This department is boots on the ground enforcement to put a stop to the 1099/worker misclassific tion model that effects our work every day. This commitment from the City of Toledo is a prime example of education of Carpenter Issues and why politics matter to the union. Moving forward, we will work to see this level of enforcement spread to other municipalities across the state of Ohio. Meetings have already been scheduled with other city governments to see what it takes to implement this level of action.The Warsaw Hub region, spanning from Fort Wayne to South Bend and down to Kokomo, has experienced remarkable growth this year. A shining example of this transformation is the Kokomo Convention Center, which stands as a testament to years of hard work, collaboration, and strategic planning.In the fall of 2014, CMRCC representatives became aware of this upcoming project from a press conference. They attended countless city and county council meetings, Board of Zoning Appeals meetings, and Visitor Bureau meetings to help advocate for this project. They spoke to multiple developers and contractors over the last 10 years. They had several developers back out of the venture, and every time they did, the team had to start the early intervention process from the beginning. Perseverance was key. Representatives kept in close contact with all political and community leaders to have authority GIVING BACKThe CMRCC sponsored the fi st CIEF (Construction Industry Education Foundation) Indianapolis Trades Day event! On top of our monetary support, our legitimacy as an organization helps CIEF operate with other industry partners. The Central Midwest Carpenters, with the help of Metro United Way and Job Corps, built “Free Little Libraries” throughout Louisville to help combat the book shortage in the city. In certain areas, there is only 1 book per 300 households! When the building trades class at Mishawaka High School in Indiana found their tools stolen, the Central Midwest Carpenters knew it was time to step up. We were honored to present the program with a grant to replace all of its tools and get back to full speed!Instructors from the Rossford Training Center took their Metal Studs and Drywall class to Habitat for Humanity of Wood County for their week of class to hang drywall; getting experience AND helping a great organization.YoungstownWarsaw
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29This year, we hosted our fi st new apprentice orientation class in Spanish, welcoming 25 new members from diverse backgrounds. This was a unique opportunity to set them on the right path to becoming exceptional union carpenters.By continuously expanding resources and re-moving barriers, we empower our members to thrive in the dynamic construction industry.In Solidarity, &Francisco Gonzalez & Jerome Z. StanfordBridging Minds CoordinatorsKey elements of our strategy include:Mentoring: A cornerstone of our success, mentoring al-lows us to support our members as they navigate their ca-reers, providing guidance and encouragement along the way.Comprehensive Training: To keep our members current with new construction technologies and evolving scopes of work, we provide training that goes above and beyond traditional methods.Language Support: Recognizing that language can be a barrier, especially for our growing non-English-speaking membership, we have established strong support sys-tems such as translated literature, live translation devic-es, and the support of bilingual instructors to ensure that language is not an obstacle to success.In 2024, we launched the BRIDGING MINDS initiative with the goal of reframing our ap-proach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The primary objective of BRIDGING MINDS is not to change beliefs but to foster positive at-titudes and collaborative behaviors among our members. By shifting these behaviors, we aim to create a more conscious and aware mem-bership that is better equipped to serve our union and the communities in which we work.Our vision is to position both the Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters (CMRCC) and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC) as lead-ers in equity and inclusion. Through BRIDGING MINDS, we’ve implemented innovative organizing strategies that have led to remarkable outcomes:A 35% increase in minority membership participa-tion, marking an all-time high.A 45% increase in female representation, with wom-en now becoming a driving and influential orce within our organization.This progress has been driven by programs such as Sisters in the Brotherhood and stra-tegic partnerships with organizations like NAWIC, the NAACP, the Urban League, Ref-ugee Centers, and local and state agencies.
30ISCC PLAN:The fiscal year ending as of 03/31/2024 finis ed very strong with 9,389,835 work hours reported which nearly doubled from the previous year. The merger with the Indiana Carpenters Plan and Indiana State Plan, rose the plan to 14,265 participants.Of the 14,265 participants, there are 4,355 currently receiving retirement benefits. The funding percent finis ed at 78.5% for the fiscal year. We are one and a half years into the merged plan and the fund is on the right track and getting stronger.IKORCC PLAN:Finishing with 12,135,077 work hours at year-end (06/30/2024) - that is an over 23% increase from previous year. The current total of participants is at 12,528 and the fund is in green status with the funding percentage at 92.2% as of 07/01/2023.With work hours created on the rise and future outlook is strong, this plan’s projection is on track and headed in the right direction.OHIO PLAN:The future of the Ohio Plan looks bright. The funding levels are in a positive direction with the fiscal year-end at 63.99% funded, which is up from the previous year.The work hours are up 1.1 million reported hours from previous year at this same time as well as the membership. With the current state of the megaprojects in Ohio, these numbers are projected to climb. SW OHIO PLAN:As announced last year, retirees in the Southwest Ohio Plan received every dollar back that was temporarily reduced during MPRA and as well as additional funds in the application to secure the future of the plan.SW Plan as of 01/01/2024 is 53% funded and the trajectory of the fund is rising and projected to be solvent through 2051.
31Craft SpotlightCraft SpotlightNearly 17 years ago, Ron Heimel found himself with a child on the way. He knew he needed to make a change in his life to pursue stability and consistency. Heimel had a friend in the Carpenters Union who worked in floor covering, so he decided to see what the union had to offer.“Joining Local 364 was the best decision of my life,” Ron said about deciding to become a union floor coverer. Not only was the stability a selling point, but the union benefitsappealed greatly to Brother Heimel with a newborn. The work of floor covering was naturally appealing to Heimel, as he linked the camaraderie in the craft to the stability he was seeking.“Everyone “Everyone looks out looks out for each for each other. The other. The brotherhood brotherhood is the best is the best part of part of being a being a floor floor coverer,”coverer,”RON HEIMEL,FLOOR COVERER Ron said about this togetherness among the trade. This familiarity goes well beyond Heimel’s local, however. He says he has a unique view of the relationship between the different crafts because he’s a floor l yer.Floorcovering is the finish line; according to Ron, “The other crafts go in and get a building up, but we make it inhabitable.” Floor layers have a lot of respect for other crafts and vice versa. Without both working in complete harmony, the overall goal wouldn’t be achieved. However, that’s not to say there aren’t hiccups along the way that floor overers encounter.With flooring being one of the last things done on a job, floorlayers are often at the mercy of how the rest of the job has progressed. Depending on this, the conditions of each jobsite vary and are unpredictable. Ron said there have been summer jobs where air conditioning wasn’t operational yet and winter jobs where heat wasn’t working correctly – creating an environment where the sealants and materials used by floorcoverers aren’t as effective as they normally are. Rolling with these struggles and adapting on the fly is crucial to success in this craft.Since joining the union, Ron has become quite accomplished. It all started when he went to his fi st union meeting to network and get to know the other members in his local. From there, he decided to take on an executive board position while being a 3rd-year apprentice, which ultimately led to him becoming the president of his local. As president, Ron tries to keep attendance up, b e there for apprentices who need guidance, and be supportive of every member in Local 364. Ron even goes as far as to pick members up for meetings who need a ride just to ensure each voice is heard and valued.“One thing I would tell anyone about myself; I still love my trade after all these years.” Ron, like most Central Midwest Carpenters members, values what he does. He also values the people he works with daily and wants to see the success of his local continue. He concludes each meeting by encouraging those in attendance to bring new members from their jobsites so they can continue to strengthen the bonds between brothers and sisters within the floor covering community. Most Important Tool: Razor Knife
32Over the last year, Central Midwest Carpenters has been reviewing sponsorship opportunities in our local communities. From community events to digital marketing, we are always looking at ways to reach potential new members, contractors, end-users, legislators, community partners, and more—we want them to know our name.Sports venues are a foundational part of the cities we build. They are more than just venues for games and concerts; they are vibrant hubs where diverse fans unite to share in the excitement and energy of live events. With goals in mind of recruitment, name recognition, and reputation building in our communities, we identified a few advertising opportunities to highlight our membership.Central Midwest Carpenters is a proud sponsor of The Ohio State University Athletics. With use of marks (logo), in-game signage at football games, Covelli Center signage, and more, this sponsorship firmly roots us as a community fixtu e in one of our busiest areas.
33This sponsorship includes a full concourse overhaul. From the giant basketball to the ceilings and stairs, Central Midwest members are all over Rupp Arena.Advertising in the Indianapolis market includes Central Midwest commercials during big golf tournaments, professional football games, and more with coverage throughout central Indiana on CBS and FOX. This opportunity also includes digital advertising in any market we want – a useful tool as recruitment needs are ever-changing.
34Alex Garcia Where did you work and what did you do in the fieldI began my manufacturing career at Masterbrand Cab-inets 4 years ago, starting in the shipping department, where I loaded trailers. Through hard work and dedica-tion, I advanced to the role of trainer, overseeing 20 to 30 new hires. Additionally, I served as a steward for my local union before being promoted to the HR department as a recruiter.What types of events have you been involved with?I participate in MAC meetings, and new initiatives de-signed to strengthen our connection with our members. For instance, we are excited to host a Member Apprecia-tion Fall Party on November 30th, a significant o casion as it marks the fi st major event organized by my local since 2020.What ambitions you have regarding your new role?The opportunity to shape it according to my vision, and as a mentor, I am committed to making a positive impact on the community, particularly among the Latino popu-lation I represent. I believe that leveraging past experi-ences and embracing innovative thinking will be key to advancing the future of this organization.What motivated you to become a rep?I am genuinely inspired by the chance to help others, as I believe that making a meaningful difference in some-one’s life is one of the most rewarding experiences a leader can have.Meet our New 2013Industrial RepresentativeIndustrial Representatives in Indiana and Kentucky are focusing on devel-oping resources to keep growing the union membership inside the industri-al shops. From creating more compre-hensive steward programs to mem-bership signup events, growth and retention remain major goals. In Ohio, this years’ focus has been on service to the membership and the onboarding process for new shops.NEW SHOPThis year, we brought in a new main-tenance contractor working inside GM Toledo plant, TESS (Tooling and Equip-ment Services Solutions). Located in Toledo, Ohio, this new shop is a main-tenance contractor working inside the GM Powertrain Plant. Members here perform daily maintenance including repairing, welding, general mainte-nance, and other wide-ranging tasks around the facility.NEWINDUSTRIALto
“Craft SpotlightBrandon HuffmanBrandon HuffmanBrandon Huffman was introduced to the world of the Central Midwest Carpenters nearly 18 years ago when a friend referred him to the shop outside Columbus, Ohio, where he worked that produces Tectum soundproof panels for auditoriums, recording studios, and more. Ohio is not a ‘Right to Work’ state, so a job can decide to be unionized, and the only people who can perform work there are union members.“Being a union shop is necessary for negotiation of contracts,” Brandon said. He sees other shops throughout the state that don’t get the benefitsthat Huffman receives. Whether it’s negotiating for higher wages or employer-funded insurance, the Central Midwest Carpenters fight to get the most possible for its members. TheTectum plant where Brandon works was bought by Armstrong World Industries, a production company specializing in ceiling and wall paneling, and the transition was made easier because the shop was unionized prior. Before the acquisition, it was understood that Armstrong would honor the previous contract and uphold what Tectum had started.Huffman has held nearly every job possible at Armstrong. From offloadin truckloads of wood chips, packing those chips to create the panels, and cooking silicate to coat them, Brandon knows the inner workings of the entire process. “It’s like a puzzle,” Huffman said about how every worker fitstogether. Each piece is essential to the end product – if one person is behind or underperforming, the entire assembly line can falter.Brandon is a steward for the Central Midwest Carpenters. He is a voice for his fellow union members on the inside of the shop. As stated previously, he understands how the shop operates, so his insight is invaluable to the union, his coworkers, and management at Armstrong. Even though being a steward can be a thankless job, Brandon takes solace in the fact that he can make a difference in his brothers’ and sisters’ working experiences. Being a steward isn't always easy. Discerning what he wants and can do for his fellow members was one of the bigger learning curves of becoming a steward. “I want to be able to fix any problem that comes up, but there are some things that come up that I can’t help with,” Brandon said about the hardest part of being a steward. It is still rewarding for Brother Huffman, though. Having a situation that he can help with and being successful keeps him coming back. Brandon’s mentality embodies the spirit of the union. He tells his kids, his coworkers, and himself, You have to work hard for what you want in life. With the hard work our members do on a daily basis, the Central Midwest Carpenters and its stewards are there to strengthen the communication between members, the council, and to help make sure the job runs as smoothly as possible.35Most Important Tool:Hay Hook
36Stay Up to Datewith your UnionTHE COUNCIL SENDS PERIODIC NOTIFICATIONS ABOUT MEETINGS, EVENTS, IMPORTANT NEWS VIA TEXT. YOU CAN OPT IN BY TEXTINGSTART TO (855) 945-6722. VISIT THE MEMBER PORTAL AT WWW.CMWCARPENTERS.COM BENEFITS DASHBOARD PAYING DUES LOCAL UNION INFO TRAINING SCHEDULES UPDATE CONTACT INFOQ1Q1Q4Q4Q5Q5Q2Q2Q3Q3What are Weingarten Rights? How can I go out to the International Training Center (ITC)? How can I access my Training Verification Card? What is Davis Bacon and how much Davis Bacon work is performed in the CMRCC? I got laid off, what now? Weingarten rights is the right for our members to ask for Union Representation and your right to union representation. There are many opportunities to attend training at the ITC. The fi st opportunity to attend training at the ITC is during the apprenticeship 3rd year program. In 2025 we have several 3rd year classes scheduled. The next opportunity is called Journeyman Leadership Training (300 Hitters). To attend this training, you need to be a Journeyperson in good standing. Please contact your Representatives for an opportunity to attend. Once you complete the Journeyman Leadership Training, you then become eligible to attend Journeyman 212 Training. For additional classes that are offered at the ITC, please visit www.carpenters.orgThe Davis Bacon Act of 1931 is a federal law and one of our most important carpenter issues. Roughly 37% of work performed in the CMRCC is prevailing wage protected by the Davis Bacon Act.Getting laid off is normal in the construction world, as jobs get busy or slow down, your contractor may have to lay you off. Watch this Video.Download the UBC Mobile App, create an account, and finally on the home page click TVC. You will have access to your training records. Training verific tion cards will no longer be printed, you will need to log into the UBC mobile app to see your training records.
37scan here to leave your condolences for our brothers and sisters who live on forever in our hearts.
38Procedures for Objecting Nonmembers to File with the Union Objections to The Expenditure of Dues for Purposes Not Germane to Collective Bargaining Union membership is an asset of great value to working people. Union membership alone provides workers with a measure of control over their wages, hours, benefits, a d working conditions. Under Section 8(a)(3) of the National Labor Relations Act, 29 U.S.C. 158(a)(3), employers and unions have the right (except in so-called right-to-work states) to enter into agreements requiring that workers, as a condition of employment, join and maintain their membership in the union. This law and policy is consistent with the democratic principle of majority rule, and it ensures that everyone who benefits f om union representation shares in the cost of providing that benefit. onsistent with this principle and the law, many collective bargaining agreements between employers and UBC Local Unions and Councils (“affil tes”) of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (“UBC”) require as a condition of employment that workers enjoying the benefits f these agreements join the union and remain members in good standing. Over the years, however, the National Labor Relations Board and the courts have, to some degree, undermined union security by holding that these clauses can be enforced against workers who refuse to join the union or resign from it only to the extent of requiring “fina cial core” membership, that is, the payment of union initiation fees and periodic dues. Workers cannot lawfully be required to actually join a union as a condition of employment. But, again, they can be required to pay the union an amount equal to the dues and fees uniformly required of union members. These rulings clearly contradict the plain language of the statute, which specifically tates that an employer can lawfully make an agreement with a union “to require as a condition of employment membership” in the union. Nevertheless, unless and until these legal interpretations are changed, the UBC will follow the prevailing law and enforce union security provisions in a manner consistent with the statute and applicable court decisions. Recently, backward-looking court decisions have further narrowed workers’ union security rights, holding that “fina cial core” nonmembers can file with t e union an objection to paying for union activities that are not “germane” to collective bargaining in order to obtain a rebate of that portion of their dues, which is determined to have been expended for nongermane purposes. Like most unions, the UBC spends a great amount of its funds on activities that even the courts agree are directly related to collective bargaining. In addition, the UBC expends some funds for other activities, including organizing, legislative activity, publications, etc. All of these activities help to strengthen our union and thereby create a more favorable position for labor in the collective bargaining process. In that sense, every one of these activities advances our union’s fundamental mission—workers joining together to better their lives. However, backward-looking court decisions have taken an extremely narrow view of the role of the trade union movement, ruling that certain such activities are not “germane” to the labor organization’s function as the legally recognized representative of workers in collective bargaining. “Financial core” membership carries with it very high costs—the loss of all of the benefits, rights, a d privileges that workers would otherwise be entitled to as union members. These include (1) the right to receive union funeral benefits; (2) t e right to vote on whether a strike will be called against their employer; (3) the right to vote on the rate of dues they are required to pay; (4) the right to vote on the ratific tion of collective bargaining agreements that determine their wages, hours, and working conditions; (5) the right to vote in the election of the union o ers and stewards who represent them; (6) the right to attend, speak, and vote at union meetings, where union policies that directly affect their jobs are determined; and (7) the right to a transfer card, so that they are not required to pay a new initiation fee if they go to work in a different collective bargaining unit, which frequently happens when a worker changes jobs. In short, these nonmember workers lose very important rights, benefits, a d privileges, including the right to meaningful involvement in setting the terms and conditions of their employment—a voice and a vote in union governance—thereby allowing others to unilaterally make decisions affecting them, their families, and their livelihoods. It is illegal for an employer to compensate a nonmember worker in any way for the loss of these valuable union rights and benefits. As or the union, it is required by law to represent nonmembers in the same way that it represents members. While the union will meet this requirement of law, it will not do anything for nonmembers that is not absolutely required by law. Objecting nonmembers who choose to file with t e union objections to the expenditure of dues for purposes not germane to collective bargaining must comply with the following procedures: SECTION 1: Workers who are covered by a union security agreement, who meet their union security obligation by paying all dues and fees but who choose or who have chosen not to become members of the union, or who have resigned from the union (hereafter “nonmembers”), may file objections to expenditures of dues for activities not germane to collective bargaining. Such workers filing objections in accordance with procedures set forth herein shall be entitled to receive an appropriate reduction of their dues or fees. SECTION 2: Nonmembers who wish to file an objection shall do so annually by notifying in writing the General Secretary-Treasurer of the UBC at 101 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001, of their objections. For those who have previously filed, the annual notice of objection must be received at the above address between April 1 and April 30 of the current year. The objection must include the objector’s social security number, a statement of the nature of the objection, and the objector’s current home address, and it must identify the objector’s UBC affil te. Provided, however, that the UBC will honor nonmember employees’ express, written statement to the UBC that they object on a continuing basis to supporting union activ-ities not related to collective bargaining and contract administration. The nonmember objector is obligated to inform the General Secretary-Treasurer of any change in address. Upon receipt of a proper objection as described above, the UBC shall send the objector a letter of acknowledgment and notify the objector’s UBC affil te that an objection has been filed. Those individuals who, for the fi st time, regardless of when it occurs during the year, choose to resign their union membership, or who refuse to join the union and who wish to file an objection, must send their objection to the General Secretary-Treasurer no later than 30 days from the date of their resignation or refusal, as otherwise specified above. SECTION 3: Nonmember objectors shall be charged for all activities germane to collective bargaining, including all union expenditures for activities or projects normally or reasonably undertaken by the union to advance the employment-related interests of those it represents in collective bargaining. Such nonmember objectors shall not be charged for those expenditures that are not germane to collective bargaining. The term “germane” shall be given the most expansive scope allowed by law. SECTION 4: The General Secretary-Treasurer shall review the UBC’s audited records and determine the amounts of expenditures incurred in the prior fiscal year that are chargeable and nonchargeable to the objector, that is, those that are germane to collective bargaining and those that are nongermane. The General Secretary-Treasurer shall allocate union expenses into major categories and shall designate those expenses as either germane or nongermane. The objector’s UBC affil te shall be responsible for reviewing its audited fina cial records to determine germane and nongermane expenses in general accordance with the principles and procedures specified herein. These UBC affil tes are inde-pendent of the UBC and are solely responsible for complying with the procedure specifiedin this Notice as respects their own expenditures and implementing reductions communicated to them by the UBC and oth-er affil tes. In this regard the UBC bears no responsibility or liability for the actions or inactions of its affil tes. SECTION 5: The UBC’s and the affil te’s review described in Section 4 shall be completed no later than July 31 of the year following the year in which the expenditures were made. As soon thereafter as practicable, a description of chargeable and nonchargeable expenditures shall be mailed to each nonmember who has filed a timely and proper objection under this procedure. The appropriate UBC affil te shall mail the nonmember objector and the General Secretary-Treasurer its description of chargeable and nonchargeable expenditures. SECTION 6: The amount to be paid by the nonmember objector shall be calculated based upon the percentage of chargeable and nonchargeable expenditures indicated in the review. The most current available audit report shall be used by both the UBC and the UBC affil te to determine the amount to be paid by the nonmember objector. When more current audit reports and reviews become available, the amount to be paid by the objector shall be adjusted accordingly. Any subsequent adjustment in favor of the objector will be sent to the objector as soon as is practicable. SECTION 7: Nonmembers filing a proper and timely notice of objection pursuant to Section 2 shall receive a dues reduction in the amount calculated under Section 6 above beginning within sixty (60) days of the receipt of their objection. They shall also receive a dues rebate in the percentage amount of their dues reduction back to the date of their objection. SECTION 8: Nonmembers filing a proper and timely notice of objection pursuant to Section 2 herein may challenge the calculation of chargeable and nonchargeable expenditures by filing a challenge with the General Secretary-Treasurer of the UBC, at the address indicated above. Such challenge must be in writing and must be sent to the UBC within thirty (30) days from the date of mailing of the description of chargeable and nonchargeable expenditures as set forth in Section 5. Failure to comply with this procedure will render any purported challenge invalid. SECTION 9: The arbitration procedure which follows is not mandatory. Nonmembers may pursue their rights under all other available legal procedures. Upon receipt of a proper and timely challenge, the General Secretary-Treasurer shall refer same to the American Arbitration Association (AAA) for determination under the AAA’s Rules for Impartial Determination of Union Fees. Challenges may be consolidated by the General Secretary-Treasurer for determination by the AAA as appropriate. The General Secretary-Treasurer shall have the authority to informally resolve challenges in the best interests of the UBC. The arbitrator shall have jurisdiction over all procedural matters affecting the arbitration. A court reporter shall make a transcript of all proceedings before the arbitrator at the expense of the UBC. The transcript shall be the officiarecord of the proceeding and may be purchased by the challenger or otherwise made available for inspection as required by the arbitrator. Fees and costs charged or associated with a party’s representative shall be borne by that party. SECTION 10: At the arbitration the union shall have the burden of establishing that the reduced dues amount being charged to objecting nonmembers is lawful. In determining the correct amount of the dues reduction, the arbitrator shall give full consideration to the legal requirements limiting the amount the objector may be charged and shall set forth the legal and arithmetical basis of such determination in the written decision. The order and decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding on all parties. SECTION 11: The UBC shall establish an escrow account containing the portion of dues paid by nonmembers fi -ing challenges pursuant to Section 8 herein which reasonably may be in dispute in arbitration. Upon receipt of the arbitration award, the escrow fund shall be distributed in accordance with the arbitrator’s decision.
39Procedimientos para Objetores que No son Miembros para Presentar a la Unión sus Objeciones sobre los Gastos de Cuotas para Propósitos que no son Pertinentes a la Negociación de Convenios Colectivos La membresía de la unión representa un gran valor para las personas que trabajan. La membresía de la unión por sí sola proporciona a los trabajadores una medida de control sobre sus salarios, sus horas, sus beneficios ysus condiciones de trabajo. Bajo la Sección 8 (a) (3) de la Ley Nacional de Relaciones Laborales, 29 U.S.C. 158(a)(3), los empleadores y la unión tienen derecho (excepto en los estados que se hacen llamar estados con derecho a trabajar “right-to-work”) a entrar en acuerdos que requieren que los trabajadores, como condición de empleo, se afilian a la unión ymantengan su membresía con la misma. Esta ley y esta política son consistentes con los principios de la democracia donde rige la mayoría, y se asegura que todos los que se benefician on la representación de la unión compartan los costos que proporcionan esos beneficios. De orma consistente con este principio y la ley, muchos de los acuerdos de convenios colectivos entre empleadores y las Uniones Locales y Concilios (“filial s”) de la Hermandad de Carpinteros Unidos y Enlistadores de América (UBC, por sus siglas en inglés) requieren como condición de empleo que los trabajadores que disfrutan los beneficiosde estos acuerdos se afilien a la unión y ermanezcan como miembros en buenos términos. A través de los años, sin embargo, la Junta Nacional de Relaciones Laborales (National Labor Relations Board) y las cortes han, hasta cierto grado, debilitado la seguridad de la unión al sostener que estas cláusulas pueden ser impuestas contra los trabajadores que se rehúsen a afilia se a la unión o renuncien a ella sólo hasta el punto de extender la “cuota fina ciera” requerida de la membresía. Es decir, el pago de cuotas de iniciación de la unión y los cargos periódicos. Por ley, no se puede requerir que los trabajadores se afilien a la unión omo una condición de trabajo. Sin embargo, se les puede pedir que paguen a la unión una cantidad igual al monto de los pagos y las cuotas que se requieren de todos los miembros de la unión. Estos reglamentos claramente contradicen el simple lenguaje del estatuto, el cual especifica a los estados que un empleador puede legalmente hacer un acuerdo con una unión “para requerir como una condición de empleo la membresía” en la unión. Sin embargo, a menos que, y hasta que, estas interpretaciones legales cambien, la UBC seguirá la ley prevaleciente y exigirá las medidas de seguridad de la unión de una manera consistente con el estatuto y las decisiones aplicables de la corte. Recientemente, decisiones retrógradas tomadas por la corte han acotado aún más los derechos de seguridad de los trabajadores de la unión, estableciendo que las personas que no son miembros de la unión pueden registrar con la unión una objeción por pagarle a ésta por las actividades que no son “pertinentes” a los convenios colectivos con el fin de ob ener un descuento de esa porción de sus cuotas que se han gastado en propósitos “no pertinentes”. Como la mayoría de las uniones, la UBC gasta una gran parte de sus fondos en actividades que incluso las cortes están de acuerdo con su directa relación con los convenios colectivos. Además, la UBC gasta otros fondos para otras actividades, incluyendo la organización, la actividad legislativa, las publicaciones, etc. Todas estas actividades ayudan a fortalecer a nuestra unión y así crean una posición más favorable para el trabajo en el proceso de negociación de los acuerdos colectivos. En ese sentido, cada una de estas actividades refuerza la misión fundamental de nuestra unión – los trabajadores unidos para mejorar sus vidas. Sin embargo, las decisiones retrógradas de las cortes han tomado una visión extremadamente estrecha del papel del movimiento de intercambio de la unión, estableciendo que algunas de estas actividades no son “pertinentes” a la labor de organización como el representante legalmente reconocido de los trabajadores en el proceso de negociación del convenio colectivo. La membresía considerando sólo un “núcleo fina ciero” lleva consigo costos muy altos – la pérdida de todos los beneficios, de echos y privilegios de los trabajadores que de otra manera no tendrían derechos como miembros de la unión. Estos derechos incluyen: (1) el derecho a recibir beneficios fú ebres por parte de la unión, (2) el derecho a votar sobre si se realizará una huelga en contra de su empleador, (3) el derecho a votar sobre las tarifas que se requieren pagar, (4) el derecho a votar en la ratificación de acue dos de convenios colectivos que determinarán sus salarios, sus horarios y sus condiciones de trabajo, (5) el derecho a votar en la elección delos oficial s de la unión y aquellos que los representan, (6) el derecho a asistir, hablar o votar en las reuniones de la unión, donde se determinan las políticas de la unión que afectan directamente sus trabajos, y (7) el derecho a una tarjeta de transferencia, para que si ellos se van a trabajar a unaunidad diferente de convenio colectivo no tengan que pagar una nueva cuota de iniciación, lo cual sucede frecuentementecuando el trabajador cambia de empleo. En resumen, estos trabajadores que no pertenecen a la unión pierden importantes derechos, beneficiosy privilegios, incluyendo el derecho a involucrarse de manera signific tiva en establecer los términos y condiciones de sus empleos – una vozy un voto en las decisiones de la unión – permitiendo así a otros realizar decisiones unilaterales que les afectan a ellos, sus familias y sus vidas. Es ilegal que un empleador compense a un trabajador que no pertenece a la unión de cualquier manera por la pérdida de estos valiosos derechos y beneficiosde la unión. En cuanto a la unión, ésta require por ley representar a personas que no pertenecen a ella, al mismo tiempo que representa a sus miembros. Mientras que la unión cumple con estos requerimientos de la ley, no hará nada que no sea absolutamente requerido por ley por las personas que no pertenecen a ella. Las personas que no pertenecen a la unión que están en desacuerdo y deciden registrar sus objeciones con la unión sobre los gastos de las cuotas por propósitos no pertinentes a un convenio colectivo deben cumplir con el siguiente procedimiento:SECCIÓN 1: Los trabajadores que estén cubiertos por un acuerdo de seguridad sindical, que cumplan su obligación de protección sindical pagando todas las cuotas y honorarios, pero que elijan o han optado por no ser miembros del sindicato, o que han renunciado al sindicato (en lo sucesivo, “no miembros”), pueden presentar objeciones a los gastos de cuotas por actividades no vinculadas a la negociación colectiva. Los trabajadores que presenten objeciones de conformidad con los procedimientos aquí establecidos tendrán derecho a una reducción adecuada de sus cuotas o cuotas. SECCIÓN 2: Los no miembros que deseen presentar una objeción deberán hacerlo anualmente notifica do por escrito a la Secretaría General del Tesoro de la UBC en 101 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001, sus objeciones. Para los que hayan presentado anteriormente, la notificación anual de objeción debe ser recibida en la dirección anterior entre el 1o de abril y el 30 de abril del año en curso. La objeción debe incluir el número de seguridad social del oponente, una declaración de la naturaleza de la objeción, y la dirección de domicilio actual del opositor, y debe identificar el afiliado de la UBC del objector. A condición, sin embargo, de que la UBC honre la declaración expresa y por escrito de los empleados no miembros a UBC de que se oponen de forma continua a apoyar las actividades sindicales no relacionadas con la negociación colectiva y la administración de contratos. El solicitante no miembro está obligado a informar al Secretario General del Tesoro de cualquier cambio de dirección. Al recibir una objeción adecuada, como se describe anteriormente, la UBC enviará al oponente una carta de reconocimiento y notifica á a la afiliada de UBC de la objeción de que se ha presentado una oposición. Aquellas personas que, por primera vez, independientemente de cuándo ocurra durante el año, decidan renunciar a su condición de miembro del sindicato, o que se nieguen a adherirse a la unión y que deseen presentar una objeción, deben enviar su objeción al Secretario General del Tesoro en el plazo de 30 días a partir de la fecha de su renuncia o rechazo, como se especifi ó anteriormente. SECCIÓN 3: A los no miembros que se opongan se les cobrará por todas las actividades de negociación colec-tiva, incluidos todos los gastos sindicales para actividades o proyectos normalmente o razonablemente llevados a cabo por la unión para promover los intereses relacionados con el empleo de los que representa en negociaciones colectivas. Esas objeciones no miembro no se cobrarán por los gastos que no están vinculados a la negociación colectiva. El término “alemán” tendrá el alcance más amplio permitido por la ley. SECCIÓN 4: El Secretario General del Tesoro examinará los registros auditados de la UBC y determinará los importes de los gastos incurridos en el ejercicio fiscal anterior que son cargados y no cargados al opo-nente, es decir, los que están sujetos a negociación colectiva y los que no son germánicos. El Secretario General del Tesoro repartirá los gastos de los sindicatos en categorías principales y designará esos gastos como alemanes o no. La filial de la UBC del oponente será responsable de revisar sus estados fina cieros auditados para determinar los gastos alemanes y no alemanos en general de conformidad con los princip-ios y procedimientos especificados en el presente documento. Estos afiliados de UBC son independientes de la UBC y son los únicos responsables de cumplir con el procedimiento especificado en este aviso en lo que respecta a sus propios gastos y la aplicación de las reducciones comunicadas a ellos por la UBS y otras afiliadas. A este respecto, UBC no asume ninguna responsabilidad o responsabilidad por las acciones o inacciones de sus afiliados. SECCIÓN 5: La revisión de la UBC y la filial descrita en la Sección 4 se completará a más tardar el 31 de julio del año siguiente al año en que se efectuaron los gastos. Tan pronto como sea posible después de esa fecha, se enviará por correo a cada no miembro que haya presentado una objeción oportuna y adecuada con arreglo a este procedimiento una descripción de los gastos exigibles y no exigibles. La filial correspondiente de la UBC enviará al solicitante no miembro y al Secretario General del Tesoro su descripción de los gastos exigibles y no exigibles. SECCIÓN 6: El importe a pagar por el objeto no miembro se calculará sobre la base del porcentaje de gastos exigibles y no exigibles indicado en el examen. Tanto la UBC como la filial de UBC utilizarán el informe de auditoría más reciente disponible para deter-minar la cantidad a pagar por el solicitante no miembro. Cuando estén disponibles más informes de auditoría y revisiones actuales, se ajustará en consecuencia el importe a pagar por el oponente. Cualquier ajuste posterior en favor del objeto será enviado al objeto tan pronto como sea posible. SECCIÓN 7: Los no Miembros que presenten una notificación de objeción adecuada y oportuna de conformidad con la Sección 2 recibirán una reducción de las cuotas en la cantidad calculada en virtud de la sección 6 supra a partir de los sesenta (60) días siguientes a la recepción de su objeción. También recibirán un descuento de las cuotas en el porcentaje del importe de la reducción de sus cuotas hasta la fecha de su objeción. SECCIÓN 8: Los no Miembros que presenten una notificación de objeción adecuada y oportuna con arreglo a la Sección 2 del presente documento podrán impugnar el cálculo de los gastos exigibles y no exigibles presentando una reclamación ante el Secretario General del Tesoro de la UBC, en la dirección indicada anteriormente. Esa objeción debe ser por escrito y debe ser enviada a la UBC en el plazo de treinta (30) días a partir de la fecha de envío por correo de la descripción de los gastos debidos y no debidos, tal como se establece en la Sección 5. El incumplimiento de este procedimiento hará que cualquier reclamación supuesta sea nula. SECCIÓN 9: El procedimiento de arbitraje que sigue no es obligatorio. Los no miembros pueden ejercer sus derechos con arreglo a todos los demás procedimientos legales disponibles. Una vez recibido un recurso adecuado y oportuno, el Secretario General del Tesoro lo remitirá a la Asociación Americana de Arbitraje (AAA) para su determinación de conformidad con las Reglas de la AAA para la determinación imparcial de las cuotas de la unión. Los retos podrán ser consolidados por el Secretario General del Tesoro para su de-terminación por el AAA, según proceda. El Secretario General del Tesoro tendrá la autoridad para resolver informalmente los problemas en el mejor interés de la UBC. El árbitro tendrá jurisdicción sobre todos los asuntos de procedimiento que afecten al arbitraje. Un reportero del tribunal hará una copia de todos los procedimientos ante el árbitro a expensas de la UBC. La transcripción será el registro oficial del proced-imiento y podrá ser adquirida por el demandante o de otro modo puesta a disposición para la inspección según lo requiera el árbitro. Las comisiones y los gastos incurridos o asociados con el representante de una parte serán sufragados por esa parte. SECCIÓN 10: En la arbitraje, la unión tendrá la carga de comprobar que la suma reducida de las cuotas que se cobra a los no miembros que se opongan es lícita. Al determinar el importe correcto de la reducción de las cuotas, el árbitro tendrá plenamente en cuenta los requisitos legales que limitan la cantidad a la que podrá cobrarse al oponente y establecerá en la decisión escrita la base jurídica y aritmética de dicha determinación. La orden y la decisión del árbitro serán definiti as y vinculantes para todas las partes. SECCIÓN 11: La UBC establecerá una cuenta de escudo que contenga la parte de las cuotas pagadas por los no miembros que presenten disputas con arreglo a la Sección 8 de la presente, que razonablemente puedan estar en disputa en arbitraje. Al recibir la sentencia de arbitraje, el fondo de escudo se distribuirá de conformidad con la decisión del árbitro.
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