Merit Shops Lead Wisconsin’s Construction Workforce Growth

Merit shop construction is on the rise across Wisconsin, with the majority of the state’s construction workforce now working outside traditional union affiliations. The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Wisconsin reports a record-setting year for its training programs, apprenticeship enrollment, and member growth—pointing to a shift in how construction work is being structured and rewarded across the state.

Consider the numbers:

• More than 2,500 apprentices are currently enrolled in ABC’s apprenticeship programs, marking an all-time high.
• Nearly half—47%—of all electrical apprentices in the state are training through ABC, according to the Wisconsin Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards.
• 80% of Wisconsin’s construction workforce now works for merit shop employers, according to data from unionstats.com.
• Over 1,000 construction firms have joined ABC of Wisconsin for the 2025 membership year.

The merit shop model operates on the principle that workers should be compensated based on their individual performance, skills, and dedication, rather than union contracts. Proponents say this approach leads to higher productivity, better pricing for clients, and more flexibility for workers and employers alike.

“Merit shops operate with the conviction that workers should be rewarded on the merits of their work,” the organization said in a statement. “Additionally, merit shops believe open competition provides the best opportunity for projects to be built safely, with excellence and at the best price.”

The model is particularly appealing to workers seeking upward mobility and flexible training paths. Apprentices in merit shops often have direct relationships with management, which can help them advance more quickly than traditional routes.

“Employees and apprentices understand the benefits of upskilling themselves, cross-training on different parts of a construction job, and negotiating directly with their manager or owner,” ABC stated.

Several former ABC apprentices are now leading thriving construction businesses or training the next generation of skilled trades workers.

• Cole McCloskey, CEO of The Electrician in Dane County, started as an ABC apprentice and quickly climbed the ranks. “In less than a decade, he has risen to ownership and is training the next generation of electrical apprentices,” ABC noted. He also recently served as keynote speaker at the apprenticeship graduation banquet.
• Jessica Cannizzaro, now the owner of Milestone Plumbing in Milwaukee, also began her career as an ABC apprentice. Today, she employs both journeymen and apprentices and has served as chair of ABC of Wisconsin. “She has been featured nationally for her business acumen,” the organization added.
• Norris Gammeter, a Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) instructor and supervisor at CCI in Beloit, also started in the ABC program. He now trains the next generation of HEOs across the state.
• Charlie Vine, recognized as ABC’s Apprentice of the Year during his carpentry training, is now Director of Special Services at WDS Construction in Beaver Dam. His success illustrates the merit shop model’s potential to develop leadership from within.

One of the unique aspects of the merit shop approach is the flexibility it provides workers as they grow into management roles. “The merit shop approach is unique, as it permits employees to move into management, without losing their benefits or negotiating power,” ABC said. “Apprentices can communicate with management directly and work together to build a healthy work culture.”

Advocates argue that this model is not just about business—it’s about building lasting careers. The focus on skill-building, autonomy, and performance-based advancement has made merit shops a preferred choice for workers across Wisconsin.

“The growth of the merit shop speaks for itself,” ABC concluded.

As Wisconsin continues to face growing demand for skilled construction labor, ABC and its partners see their model as a blueprint for future workforce development across the region.

Originally reported by Bridgetower Media Newswires in The Daily Reporter.