New York Electrical Contractors Association Changes the Paradigm of Negotiations with the 2019 Collective Bargaining Agreement


“With a special focus on client and customer relations, we are pleased to have reached an agreement that produced cost saving measures, while still providing the skilled men and women of Local Union #3 with the competitive compensation and benefits.” 

Ben D’Alessandro
President, NYECA  

After two months and nearly 20 negotiating sessions, the New York Electrical Contractors Association (NYECA) has announced their 2019 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for Local Union #3 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (I.B.E.W) and its affiliated contractors. The three-year CBA includes a slight increase to the economic package, changes to streamline efficiencies and historic initiatives, such as a diversity commitment and Code of Excellence. Negotiations for NYECA, the largest section of the National Electrical Contractors Association, were led by Chief Negotiator Steve Lazzaro, NYECA President Ben D’Alessandro and a committee of ten electrical contractors.

There were several key changes that will contribute to controlling construction costs and increasing NYECA contractors’ overall ability to compete in a changing construction industry:

  • NYECA contractors can now buy into OCIP and CCIP insurance plans. This will translate into costs savings and reduced risk. When an OCIP or CCIP insurance plan is offered on a jobsite, the Local Union #3, IBEW affiliated contractor can opt into the coverage provided with no questions asked.
  • The creation of an expeditor-helper category will allow for additional workers on the job to handle material, further reducing costs. The Expeditor-Helper Position will provide the General Foreperson and Sub-forepersons with the support that they need to offload and distribute materials, equipment and deliveries throughout and within a job site at significantly reduced hourly rate.
  • Expansion of our M Division will enable a larger mix of secondary-rate journeymen to reduce the overall composite rate. The M Division employs over 800 secondary-rate journeyman electricians. Local Union #3, IBEW committed to bringing in 200 secondary-rate journeyman each year of the contract to help lower the composite rate on each job.
  • Elimination of temporary standby light and power will enable general contractors to better manage their businesses. A maintenance electrician will only be required for these temporary systems at the request of the customer.

Focusing on Diversity

Local Union #3, IBEW is one of the most diverse unions in New York City.  NYECA understands that an inclusive workforce provides its clients with the top of the line talent and innovative solutions. To further their efforts, NYECA is establishing its diversity commitment by building a more inclusive electrical industry. The Joint Industry Board (JIB) will also continue to monitor layoffs, enforce diversity training and review & report supervision numbers in a comprehensive report for all trustees.

While negotiations were underway, NYECA’s collective bargaining team kept their goal of providing clients with skilled electrical contracting services, at competitive prices at the forefront of every decision. Through creative programming and examining methods to make the outcome more cost-effective and efficient, NYECA was able to reach an agreement that was beneficial for their members and the hard-working men and women who build New York City’s skylines.

For a full presentation on all the agreements highlights, please see the power point presentation here.