In July, a new slate of officers was sworn in and they have hit the ground running. As your new Business Manager, I appreciate all their efforts to keep 520 strong and prosperous. I’d also like to thank my predecessor, Scott Christ, for his life-long dedication to organized labor and Local 520. Thanks to Scott, the transition in leadership has been seamless; having the sup- port of a great team of officers that I can rely on has also been a key factor. Local 520 is in great shape thanks to all of them.
As the days grow shorter, our work fronts typically begin to slow. This winter will follow suit and we will see a slight downward trend over the next several months. I’ve been aggressive with our market recovery program when our signatories are bidding against the non-union, specifically targeting projects scheduled for the anticipated slowdown period. This approach has been a success and will return wages and benefits this fall and winter. Work has been plentiful this past spring and summer, and we’ve continued to stay busy through the end of October. There are several fair-sized projects currently bidding, and a few that have already been awarded to our contractors. These projects will present opportunities for employ- ment in the spring of 2023 and beyond.
Veterans Day is already behind us, but it is never too late to honor those that have served our country. To all our brothers and sisters that have served, we thank you for your service and sacrifice. It is because of men and women like you that we comfortably live in the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Congratulations to our newest graduates who com- pleted the apprenticeship program this year. The dedication it takes to complete the program deserves recognition. If you are working with or know a new journeyman who has recently graduated, please take a moment to congratulate them. They have certainly earned it.
On behalf of the officers and staff of Local 520, we hope you and your family enjoy all the blessings this holiday season brings and wish you a safe and prosperous new year.
In solidarity,
Jim Enders Business Manager