Air conditioning workers join union

OWATONNA, Minn. — Building on previous cooperation with McQuay International at a plant in nearby Faribault, Sheet Metal Workers Local 480 successfully organized the air conditioning company's new plant in Owatonna, Minn.

Not only that, but McQuay moved out of the right-to-work state of Alabama.

“Respect for each other and good labor/management relations between McQuay and Local 480 over many years was a key factor in the decision to relocate and expand at Owatonna” last year, Sheet Metal Workers International Association Director of Production Mike LaFave told the SMWIA Journal.

The plant started with 35 workers and hopes to employ up to 175, he said.? McQuay stayed neutral during Local 480's successful card-check campaign and recognized the local as bargaining agent.? The two sides negotiated a first contract with wage and benefit improvements both at Owatonna and Faribault, where 450 Local 480 members work.

This article was written by Press Associates, Inc., news service. Used with permission.