On August 5th, Local 105 welcomed 29 new members from Dearborn Industrial Gas (DIG) following the unanimous ratification of their first UWUA contract. This five-year agreement marks a major achievement, significantly enhancing both pay and benefits for DIG workers. After voting to join UWUA in 2023, the DIG team worked with Local 105 and the Michigan State Utility Workers Council (MSUWC) to secure this milestone contract.
At the heart of the new agreement is the replacement of an unpredictable bonus system with higher base hourly wages, clear job titles, and a transparent progression schedule. “The subjectivity of the bonus system was a major reason why this group pursued union representation,” explained Local 105 President Tim Gohr.
In addition to increased base wages, workers will benefit from guaranteed annual raises of 3.5%, a 2% safety bonus, and substantially improved retirement benefits. Company contributions to the defined contribution plan will now range from 7% to 10%, based on years of service. The union also succeeded in lowering the age for unreduced early retirement from 62 to 61.
Other notable provisions include lower healthcare premiums, improved overtime pay, and enhanced holiday pay. Operations staff will receive an extra $1 per hour for night shifts, while maintenance staff will earn overtime for hours outside their regular schedule and double time for Sunday shifts. The contract also introduces a comprehensive grievance process with arbitration rights, alongside improved vacation and sick leave policies.
Billy Donahue and Keith Charette, who led the DIG organizing effort, worked directly with Gohr, Craig Wright, Ben Hatler, and Ben McCrumb from the MSUWC who were on the negotiating committee. “The team did an outstanding job. Members are thrilled with the results,” said Gohr.