So I am a water treatment operator somewhere in Massachusetts (not going to disclose where for obvious reasons) and we aren’t able to strike at all. In fact any shutdown or wildcat strikes constitute not only termination but criminal charges.

It’s a crappy catch 22 to be in, being underpaid and undervalued and not having any actual resources to protest. Our union is a joke because what actual leverage do they have? Our negotiations typically go something like this

Union: ”we feel out members need a 9% raise to meet cost of living increases and to make sure we can attract qualified applicants”

Company: “ best I can do is 2%”

Union: grumbles “ok fine I guess”