Guidelines were first established in the 1800s by workers who shed sweat, tears, and sometimes blood to establish their right to organize. These labor pioneers were determined to win a better standard of living for themselves and their families. The guidelines were organized into the UBC Constitution and bylaws. UBC members are united by their desire to earn fair wages and benefits in a safe work environment. Opportunities for membership, education, skills training, and job advancement are open to all.

The UBC prides itself on being a democratic organization. Members elect their leaders, and each member has a say in how the UBC is operated and governed. With those rights comes responsibility:

Every member is responsible for voicing an opinion and attending meetings so that each can make informed choices about their UBC leadership.

Those leaders are keenly aware of their responsibilities, and they approach their work using one simple rule: Does it help the UBC grow or hold it back? If it helps it grow, creates opportunities for the members, and strengthens the union, the leadership works to implement it. That clear direction has guided years of hard work at every level of the Brotherhood.

Structurally, this direction prompted consolidation, and the replacement of the old structure with full-service regional councils. This reorganization reflects today’s construction market, and this council structure helps ensure the readiness of resources to implement effective strategies in protecting and securing work. In the process, local expenses are reduced by eliminating the duplication of services.

These changes make the Brotherhood more effective and more efficient.

“We continue to build our union through organizing and through leadership development. Through the important leadership programs held at the ITC and the work that is being done at the affiliate level we are changing the culture in the construction industry,” said UBC General President Douglas J. McCarron.

“The UBC is focused on our goal of achieving 70 percent market share in the crafts we represent. The Brotherhood is ready to keep building strong and leading the way.”

Structure of the UBC