In CEO Jim Hussey's words...
Why Marina Went Union
 Jim Hussey, CEO Marina Mechanical: "The decision to sign union contracts was initiated by Marina Mechanical’s management ... It’s a big change — no question about it."
On July 1, 2002 we joined a working partnership with the Sheet Metal Workers and the Plumbers & Steamfitters labor unions. The decision to sign union contracts was initiated by Marina Mechanical’s management. It took a great deal of thought and preparation. It was not easy. It’s a big change—no question about it. As we explored alternatives, it became increasingly clear that the labor unions we are signing with are going to help us achieve some very basic aims.

Training, Quality, and Growth. Marina set its goals on steady growth of 10% a year. Training is a key to maintaining our standards for quality during this expansion. The bottom line is that organized labor has the best training available. In particular, the Sheet Metal Workers and the Plumbers & Steam Fitters have major assets in personnel and facilities that are solely dedicated to training the next generation of HVAC installers and technicians. These resources also provide continuing education for our existing senior installers and technicians. Through continuing education, our employees can stay current with the new techniques and technologies that are the result of the constant change in our industry. This represents an increased value for Marina as an employer, for our staff as employees, and for you as our client. Employee Benefits. Another reason for our decision is our genuine concern for our employees. In today’s market it has become increasingly difficult to purchase affordable health care and retirement benefits for our employees. Labor Unions represent a large purchasing group that can negotiate directly with benefit providers. By signing with the unions we are able to take advantage of their purchasing power and offer significantly improved medical and retirement benefits to our employees and their families.

Career Paths. As we grow we want to continue to recruit the best. One sure way to do this is to offer a career path with clear benefits from entry-level training to retirement. Signing with the Sheet Metal Workers and the Plumbers & Steam Fitters enables Marina to offer a promising career to those individuals who seek a career in the mechanical trades. Signing also provides a path for our senior technicians who are well into their careers and still looking for new challenges.

Partnership. Marina has always believed that treating our customers and employees with honesty, integrity, and respect was the key to success. Partnering with the Sheet Metal Workers and the Plumbers & Steam-fitters is the logical next step as Marina looks for the best ways to continue our commitment to offering the best to our clients and our employees. This was a tough but well considered decision that we believe will assure Marina’s ability to deliver on our promise to you for a comfortable and healthy place to work and live.

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