Union Gains Foothold in Tech Industry

Historically, unions gain traction in blue-collar industries such as construction, manufacturing, transportation, and utilities. It is almost unheard of for unions to form among big firm tech workers and engineers, who have hefty salaries and perks like free snacks and onsite laundry services.

However, in a rare moment for labor and employment, 225 Google employees, including engineers, sales associates, and administrative assistants, have announced that they have formed the Alphabet Workers Union. The Alphabet Workers Union will be affiliated with the larger Communication Workers of America.

While traditional unions target wages and benefits, the Alphabet Workers Union grew out of employee activism and criticism about how Google handles workplace discrimination and harassment, as well as ethical concerns about harmful uses of its products.

The 225 employees fall short of the threshold to receive official recognition as a collective bargaining group from the National Labor Relations Board, which requires interest from at least 30% of employees in a given location or job classification. However, reports suggest that the Alphabet Workers Union is not currently planning to pursue official recognition, but is focused on hiring skilled organizers to provide a counterforce and a voice for workers.

Union or not, take advantage of CEA's labor relation services that may prevent your business from becoming a target of union organization or help you facilitate negotiations. As a reminder, our labor relation services include union avoidance training for managers, collective bargaining assistance, grievance and dispute resolution, and labor policy development.

Contact CEA at 800.399.5331 or [email protected] for more information.

Photo courtesy of bennymarty - stock.adobe.com.