Kathmandu— In May last year, 2,100 information technology employees at the University of California (UC) voted to join the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE-CWA Local 9119), marking the largest effort to organize tech workers in US labor history. The unionization drive was fueled by a desire for job security and better benefits, as well as a vision for technology that serves people rather than corporate interests.

Union Campaign Details

The campaign to form the new bargaining unit began in earnest around 2016 when Dan Russell joined the executive board and bargaining team. The union secured significant gains, including a 22 percent raise over three years, substantial savings on health insurance premiums, and commitments that before layoffs occur, workers would be offered vacant positions they are qualified for within any UC campus.

Organizing Challenges

Max Belasco highlighted the challenges of organizing a largely remote workforce. The union conducted thousands of one-on-one conversations and even home visits to build trust and address concerns about joining the union. Workers were skeptical, fearing that their relationship with management might be affected or worried about layoffs due to budget cuts.

Impact on Tech Industry

The UC tech workers' unionization effort is seen as a potential model for other tech workers facing similar challenges in both public and private sectors. The union's success in securing job security and better benefits offers hope that technology can be harnessed to serve the public interest rather than just corporate profits.

(With inputs from Jacobin)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.