FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saginaw, Mich. (Oct. 3, 2024) – The Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) Local 1098, in partnership with the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Michigan and its member contractors, held an event today in Saginaw to discuss fringe benefit fund updates, new training initiatives, and enhanced labor-management collaboration—all vital to Michigan’s construction industry.
Contractors from the region heard from leaders who highlighted the strong state of the Michigan Laborers healthcare and pension funds, training updates, and new initiatives that enhance collaboration between labor and management.
Scott Pantaleo, AGC of Michigan Labor Relations Director, emphasized the broad importance of the discussions: “Strong labor-management relations are key to our success. Today’s discussions are crucial for keeping contractors informed. These are the foundations that keep our workforce strong, our projects competitive, and our industry moving forward.”
The event included presentations from industry leaders on:
- LIUNA Training of Michigan: Showcasing the latest training programs that equip laborers with the skills needed to stay competitive and meet the demands of the evolving industry.
- Michigan LECET: Detailing collaborative initiatives between labor and management to create new opportunities for union workers and promote industry growth across the state.
- Salus Group: Highlighting how strategic management of the Michigan Laborers’ Fund has continued to provide top-tier, Cadillac-level health insurance while keeping employer contributions low.
- Meketa Investment Group: Offering a positive outlook on pension funds and retirement benefits, ensuring a secure financial future for workers.
“Building strong relationships with our contractors and keeping communication open is essential,” said Brent Pilarski, Business Manager for the Michigan Laborers District Council. “We’re excited to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, while continuing to deliver premium benefits and training programs that set our members and contractors apart.”
About LIUNA Michigan:
The Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) of Michigan was established in 1948 and represents over 14,000 men and women who build our State’s roads, bridges, buildings, and energy infrastructure. LIUNA members are proud to be a powerhouse of workers dedicated to improving the lives of working families across North America.
About the AGC of Michigan:
The AGC of Michigan is a chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America. As a full-service construction trade association, it provides safety, education, training, legislative & regulatory advocacy, human resources, labor relations options, construction information, and affinity programs.
About Michigan LECET:
The Michigan Laborers-Employers Cooperation and Education Trust (LECET) promotes collaboration between labor and management to support the construction industry. LECET’s initiatives benefit both laborers and employers by driving growth and development through workforce training and labor-management partnerships.
For more information, please contact:
Katie Barglind
Phone: (517) 321-2349
Email: kbarglind@mi-laborers.org