Weather Shield Workers Choose Teamsters Union

Workers who manufacture doors for Weather Shield in Park Falls, Wisconsin, have voted to join Teamsters Local 662. The 145 skilled workers who produce everything from French doors to hinged patio doors were in desperate need of strong union representation.

“The number one goal in everyone’s mind is fairness and equality for all in the building,” said Bob Meinholz, a final frame assembler. “The treatment has to get better.”

While the workers were seeking equality and respect in their workplace, recent economic cuts also took a toll.

“These workers have taken a 20 percent pay cut; they’ve had the company take away nine holidays, their 401(k) match and their boot allowance,” said Rick Skutak, business agent with Mosinee-based Local 662.

Meinholz said his co-workers were not pleased with an initial 10 percent pay cut, but given a poor economy, accepted the financial sacrifice to help out their employer. However, a 20-percent cut and elimination of most benefits was the final straw that led the workers to seek Teamster representation.

Park Falls is a small area, with a population of about 3,100. According to Meinholz, the Park Falls facility was built with a government grant, as part of a program to promote job growth in the area. He has worked at Weather Shield since the facility opened almost 10 years ago, and has seen a revolving door of hundreds of workers in that time.

Nine months ago, Meinholz and his co-workers decided to form a committee and got to work organizing their co-workers. The committee, along with Teamsters Local 662 representatives, went door to door, talking with Weather Shield workers and gaining support for organizing.

“This was a well-run campaign and the committee worked very hard. We are happy to welcome them to the Teamsters,” said David Reardon, Local 662 Secretary-Treasurer.

Shop steward elections will be held Tuesday, September 7.