About Us
United Association Local 32 is a Labor Organization whose primary function is to improve the lives of pipe trades workers.
About Us
Our History Since 1890
The United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVAC/R Service Technicians has been a part of the Pacific Northwest since the 1890’s. Through the years the UA had the privilege of working on projects such as the Grand Coulee Dam, Diablo Dam, Ross and Boundary Dams and many other significant pieces of critical infrastructure within the Pacific Northwest. As time went on, the diversity of our membership and their skill sets continued to increase, so much so that eventually it only made sense to consolidate the skilled trades in to a combined Building Trades and Metal Trades Charter, so in March of 1947 the UA decided to merge local 473 with local 32. Today we are simply known as UA Local 32.
UA Local 32 has a proud history of advocating on behalf of working men and women to secure fair wages and improve working conditions for pipe trades professionals, including Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVAC/R Professionals. As a member of UA Local 32 you are part of something bigger than yourself. You become part of a long line of individuals that have fought and struggled to ensure that the next generation has an opportunity to do better than the one before it. UA Members have traditionally spent their entire career in the pipe trades and in doing so as a UA member, they have created a body of work they can be proud and ensured themselves the opportunity to retire with dignity and respect.
Since our inception, we have created many benefits and training opportunities to empower our members and strengthen our industry. With dignity, respect, and an equal voice in the workplace, Local 32 shows how much impact we can make when pipe trade workers unite.
Today, we proudly offer a comprehensive range of benefits, including:
- Training and Career Development
- Medical and Retirement Plans
- Competitive Wages
- Comprehensive Benefits
- Job Security
- Political Advocacy
- Improved Working Conditions
- Training & Professional Development
United Association Local 32 and the Mechanical Contractors Association of Western Washington invests over $4 million each year in the training of our apprentices and journeypersons, ensuring that exceptional skills and a strong work ethic are brought to every job and project we undertake.
We believe that the future strength and success of the pipe trades rest on three key pillars:
- Training
As our industry constantly evolves, staying current with the latest technologies is essential. Many modern systems and methods require more than just hands-on experience; they demand dedicated, ongoing training. By sharpening our skills and embracing new techniques, we ensure we’re prepared to meet every advancement with confidence.
- Organization
Workplace democracy empowers workers, giving everyone a voice and fostering a sense of investment in their roles. Organized labor establishes standards that elevate the entire industry, transforming jobs into meaningful careers. Organizing in the pipe trades benefits workers, employers, and the industry as a whole by setting a foundation of professionalism and pride.
- Political Advocacy
Some groups believe that the gains made by working people have gone too far. It’s vital to unite those who have built—and continue to build—our communities to advocate for policies that protect and enhance the well-being of our workforce.
At UA Local 32, our members are dedicated professionals who bring skill, integrity, and productivity to every job. As skilled craftspeople, we take pride in our expertise and our ability to deliver value for our contractors. Our success lies in our rigorous training, strong work ethic, and deep commitment to our craft.
Standard for Excellence
To ensure the UA Local 32 Standards for Excellence platform meets and maintains its goals, the Local Union Business Manager, in partnership with his implementation team, shop stewards, and local membership, shall ensure all members:
- Arrive on time daily, ready to work punctually and reliably, as absenteeism and tardiness are not tolerated.
- Adhere to established starting, break, and ending times, ensuring cell phones are only used during lunch and breaks.
- Agreement and treat Employer-supplied tools respectfully.
- Promote and utilize the local union and international training systems to pursue lifelong learning, ensuring that UA members remain the most skilled and in-demand workers in the industry.
- Maintain fitness for duty with a strict zero-tolerance policy on substance abuse.
- Maximize productivity by minimizing inactive time on the job.
- Uphold contractual obligations by eliminating disruptions and working toward the safe, timely, and successful completion of every project.
- Respect the property of our customers—vandalism and waste are strictly prohibited.
- Dress in a manner that reflects the professionalism and pride of our trade, with no offensive language or symbols on clothing or accessories.
- Abide by all rules and policies set by the Employer and customer.
- Following all safe, reasonable, and lawful management directives.
By embracing these principles, UA Local 32 members ensure that our professionalism and dedication are visible in everything we do, making a positive impact on every project and for every client we serve.
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