Workers at Pro Trades Mechanical Inc., a prominent mechanical contractor based in Windsor, have unanimously ratified a comprehensive new three-year collective agreement. The contract delivers substantial wage hikes, improved benefits packages, and additional allowances for the company's unionized workforce.
Unanimous Approval and Union Representation
The deal was approved unanimously by all 31 unionized employees at Pro Trades Mechanical, according to an official media release issued by CLAC Local 53 on Friday. The Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC) has represented these workers since 2022, advocating for their interests during negotiations.
Key Contract Provisions and Economic Context
Given the current challenging economic environment, we are particularly pleased to secure meaningful wage increases and significant improvements to benefits, stated Mary Ellen VanderSlui, a CLAC representative, in the release. This agreement not only addresses immediate compensation needs but also recognizes the long-term contributions of our members through enhanced vacation provisions while maintaining strong overall compensation packages.
The contract guarantees a substantial 13.85 percent wage increase over the three-year term for members at Pro Trades Mechanical. The company employs skilled tradespeople specializing in electrical, plumbing, and sheet metal work, serving the Windsor-Essex region with mechanical contracting services including HVAC installations.
Enhanced Benefits and Allowances
Beyond base wage improvements, the new agreement includes multiple enhancements to employee benefits:
- A 1.5 percent increase in pension contributions
- Improved vision care coverage
- Enhanced life insurance provisions
- Better Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance
- Expanded paramedical coverage
Travel allowances have been increased from $50 to $65, providing additional support for work-related transportation. The agreement also combines boot and uniform allowances into a single, more flexible allocation, giving workers greater discretion in how they utilize these funds.
Vacation Milestones and Additional Provisions
The contract introduces new vacation pay milestones at 15 and 25 years of service, rewarding long-term employees for their dedication and experience. Furthermore, workers will now receive a daily meal allowance when performing out-of-town work that exceeds 10.5 hours, addressing practical needs during extended assignments.
Pro Trades Mechanical provides essential mechanical contracting services throughout Windsor-Essex, including electrical, plumbing, sheet metal, and HVAC work. This new agreement represents a significant step forward in supporting the skilled trades workforce that maintains the region's infrastructure and industrial operations.
