As union membership in construction reaches an all-time low, the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Alabama has highlighted the growing trend as a positive sign for the industry. According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), union membership in construction has dropped to 10.3%, down from the previous record low of 10.7% in 2023.

"I firmly believe that the low rate of union membership nationally is a testament to the construction industry’s commitment to providing safe and adequate working conditions and fair wages," stated Jay Reed, president of the Associated Builders and Contractors of Alabama. "The vast majority of construction workers are simply not buying into the standard union playbook."

The BLS report also highlighted that 7,978,000 construction workers were non-union members in 2024, reflecting a shift of 12,000 more workers leaving unions compared to the previous year. Union membership in the construction sector decreased by 38,000 workers in 2023, further underscoring this downward trend.

Tim Harrison, board chairman of Harrison Construction, echoed Reed's sentiments, attributing the drop in union membership to the strengthening of employer-employee relations. Harrison noted that better communication and relationships have removed the need for union representation in the industry. "In the construction industry, your personnel are everything," Harrison emphasized. "Our labor force knows that we have their back, and they do not want out-of-state union bosses complicating employer and employee relationships. The BLS report is just confirmation of the extraordinary relationship between business and labor in our industry."

Harrison also touched upon the importance of attracting younger workers to the industry to combat the wave of retirements. "Merit shop contractors must continue to invest in workforce development for unions serving the Uitiatives and continuing education opportunities to fill the employee shortage in our industry. As our aging experienced workers are retiring at record rates, these initiatives will attract a younger demographic by allowing them to reach the American dream."

ABC Alabama's message underscores the positive aspects of the decline in union membership, viewing it as evidence of a more harmonious and effective construction workforce. The state’s construction sector remains a vital contributor to the state's economy, providing 200,000 jobs and accounting for 5% of Alabama's economic output. The growing trend of non-union membership suggests that the future of the industry lies in strengthening the relationships between employers and workers, while fostering an environment that attracts the next generation of skilled professionals.

Originally reported by Austen Shipley in Yellow Hammer.