Union History
Since 1864, members of the Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association, the nation's oldest building trade, have organized workers and their community to the benefits of union membership and building with union craftsmen. Many improvements for workers in our industry and country came about from their struggles.  The 40 hour work week, overtime, public education, prevailing wage laws, safety and health regulations, healthcare and retirement plans for workers, livable family wages and respect for our Trades all came about because of our collective strength as organized workers. Most union craftsmen know that just paying dues is not enough and boldly display their pride of workmanship and union membership.

This Local, which has absorbed several smaller Locals, was chartered February 24, 1941.

Jurisdiction
OP&CMIA Local #528 is a full service Local that represents Washington in the majority of the western counties. It also extends to some portions of the eastern counties for the Plasterers. Plasterers Local 77 was merged with Local 528 in December of 2005. All officers of the Local have worked within our trade.  The term “full service” means the Local coordinates the joint efforts of its staff to represent our members, promote training and organize within our industry. Under these broad headings are included many services to the membership, including, but not limited to, contract negotiations, contract enforcement, advanced training and certifications, guaranteed wage and benefit levels, and guarding our work and jurisdiction.

Union Leadership
Elected leadership at the Local starts with the Business Manager, who is also the Financial Officer and oversees the operation of the Local, including the hiring of staff. The Local’s President, among other duties, appoints committees and presides over the meetings. The two Local Financial Trustees have supervision of all Local funds. The remaining officers include: Vice President, Treasurer, Recording Secretary, and Health & Welfare and Pension Trustee.

The Local Executive Board is made up of 8 elected members. The Executive Board handles any charges filed against members, investigates issues and makes recommendations to the Local concerning these issues, plus handling numerous topics which are presented before them at their monthly meeting. In essence, they are a part of the checks and balances for our organization.

The members of the Local elect delegates who represent their interests at the International Convention held every five years and at the annual Northwest Conference. The delegates our members elect receive progress reports, financial statements and information about our International Union and take appropriate action on necessary items. Your Local delegates also elect the International’s officers every five years.

This is presented as a general overview of the Local and our officers. Each member should read the Local’s By-Laws and Constitution.