Park City Mountain lift mechanics and electricians could become the first ski resort mechanics union in the United States as 80% of local workers signed a petition to seek organization, according to KPCW. In four to six weeks, the employees could be voting to unionize under the United Professional Ski Patrols of America as the Park City Lift Maintenance Professional Union.
“The prosperity, happiness, and safety of the mechanics and electricians in Lift Maintenance has been a discussion for years. Having a voice and the opportunity to negotiate with our employer is paramount to the retention of mechanics and electricians, as well as experience, in our department.” –Park City lift mechanic Liesl Jenkins according to KPCW
According to a press release, understaffing, dangerous work conditions, and low pay have led to a high turnover rate that results in a lack of experienced mechanics.
The Park City ski patrollers voted to unionize in 2015, becoming the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association of the United Professional Ski Patrols of America union under the Communications Workers of America, the same path lift mechanics and electricians are hoping to take in the near future. The United Professional Ski Patrols of America currently represents over 650 ski patrollers across the country.
Image Credit: Park City Mountain via Facebook
