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Labor Relations

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Supporting Contractors Beyond Negotiations

MCAKC represents all Signatory Contractors in labor relations with Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 8 and Pipe Fitters Local 533. From collective bargaining to ongoing collaboration with union leadership, we work to maintain a stable and productive working relationship on behalf of every contractor we represent.

Signatory contractor representatives at a Business Manager Breakfast at the MCAKC office.

Collective Bargaining

Representing Signatory Contractors in collective bargaining is MCAKC’s primary labor relations role. We work directly with Local 8 and Local 533 through every phase of negotiations, gathering contractor input, preparing for discussions, and communicating outcomes clearly to contractor leadership.

Strong CBAs create predictable conditions that help contractors plan, staff, and deliver projects with confidence.

Pipe Fitter Pipe Fitter

Collaboration with Union Partners

MCAKC maintains an active working relationship with Local 8 and Local 533 between negotiations, keeping communication open and the partnership strong.

  • Business Manager Breakfasts: Regular meetings with union leadership for open dialogue outside of formal negotiations.
  • Mental Health Initiatives: Jointly developed resources including the Micro Moments Toolkit.
  • National Engagement: Management representation at national events including the UA Instructor Training Program and Tradeswomen Build Nations.
  • Labor Management Council:  Active participation on The Labor Management Council of Greater Kansas City Board to support strong labor-management relationships.
  • Plumbing Service Meetings: Regular forums where contractors and union leadership discuss service trends together.
  • Trustee Committees: Contractor representation in oversight of health, pension, and training funds.
  • Workforce Visibility: Joint outreach with both unions to promote careers in the skilled trades to the next generation.

National Service and Maintenance Agreement

The National Service and Maintenance Agreement (NSMA) is a national labor agreement between MCAA and the United Association (UA) that helps MCAKC Member Contractors compete in the service market. It provides a consistent framework for performing service work across multiple jurisdictions with fewer barriers, supporting market growth while maintaining strong labor standards.

Additional Resources

Missouri Prevailing Wage:

Plumbers Local 8 members at the Tradeswomen Build Nations event in 2025

Questions

Contact Executive Director Stacy Zerr for any labor relations questions.