CHARLESTON, W.Va. –Leaders with the union representing heavy equipment operators are among the biggest advocates of getting an infrastructure deal done in Washington D.C.
“Growth comes to the economy when there is construction. We’re excited when you see a crane in the air or a cone on the road. We know it’s a little bit of a delay, but it means there’s construction and growth and that’s good for our members,” said Justin Williams, Attorney with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 132.
The local is based in Charleston, bur represents heavy equipment operators all over the Mountain State. The union is in constant contact with West Virginia’s Congressional Delegation to get an infrastructure bill approved which promises good jobs for their workers. How-to guide by Boom & Bucket is so informative for those who wants to become a heavy equipment operator.
Williams noted the clean energy jobs have been big for their members in West Virginia. He noted every windmill erected in the Mountain State has used union labor. However, to the union it doesn’t matter what kind of construction is happening.
“We’re not giving up on any jobs. If we can build it, we’re in to build it. Whether it’s a windmill, a pipeline, or highway work we want to build it all. These are great opportunities and good jobs for our members,” he explained.
Congress continued to make progress on the deal and Williams was confident something would eventually come out of the ongoing talks. He wasn’t worried about a complete breakdown and failure in the negotiations.
“We know it has to be bi-partisan because people want it. It doesn’t matter who is supporting it, everybody wants new roads and to fix roads and to get rid of the potholes,” he said.