UA Members Protecting North America’s Military Infrastructure
Metal Trades
The United Association’s Metal Trades Department proudly represents and supports skilled trades professionals working in four federal shipyards across the country.
UA metal trades professionals perform critical work that includes the maintenance, overhaul, and modernization of both Canadian and U.S. Navy vessels, along with other federal maritime assets, to ensure their safety, reliability, and mission readiness.
How does the UA Metal Trades Department help shipyard members?
The UA Metal Trades Department provides hands-on assistance to federal shipyard members through:
- • Organizing efforts
- • Contract support
- • Advocacy during challenging times, such as government shutdowns and budget uncertainties
Working in collaboration with the Metal Trades Department, AFL-CIO, the UA focuses on:
- • Protecting good union jobs
- • Securing fair wages and working conditions
- • Maintaining the highest standards of training, safety, and professionalism
Through this partnership, the UA ensures that workers at these federal shipyards have the resources, representation, and support they need to perform their vital role in national defense.
Protecting the U.S. gas utilities
How does the UA Metal Trades Department help gas utility members?
The UA Metal Trades Department assists our gas utility Locals through:
- Organizing efforts
- Contract support
- Grievances
- Coordinated responses in times of uncertainty or industry change
UA members in the gas utility sector perform essential work that ensures the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas to homes, businesses, and critical facilities, keeping communities safe and powered.
We actively participate in the Inter-Union Gas Workers Conference, collaborating with other International Unions to:
- Address common challenges
- Share best practices
- Advance the interests of workers across the industry
Whether advocating for fair wages and working conditions, navigating regulatory or corporate transitions, or providing resources during economic disruptions, the department stands ready to support our members every step of the way.
Through this work, the UA continues to protect good union jobs, promote the highest standards of safety training, and strengthen the voice of gas utility workers across the nation.
Discover the Advantage of a Career in the Metal Trades
Why choose a career as a UA metal trades professional?
There are many reasons to begin a career in the metal trades field, including:
In-Demand Skills
With aging infrastructure and evolving technology, the need for qualified metal trades workers is greater than ever.
Top Wages and Benefits
UA members enjoy industry-leading pay, comprehensive healthcare, retirement plans, and opportunities for advancement.
Year-Round Employment
This work’s essential nature means steady, reliable careers in every season and economic climate.
Continuous Training
The UA’s world-class training programs keep members current on safety, technology, and industry best practices.
Begin Your Journey to a Brighter Future
Start your career as a UA metal trades worker
UA apprenticeships in the metal trades offer a direct path to a stable, well-paying career that truly makes a difference. As a UA apprentice, you will:
- Earn While You Learn
Get paid from Day One, without incurring any student debt. - Train with the Best
Learn from industry leaders in state-of-the-art facilities. - Graduate with nationally Recognized Credentials
Open doors to opportunities across North America. - Advance Your Career
Progress from apprentice to journeyman and beyond, with ongoing support and training.
Take the first step toward a meaningful career that protects your community and secures your future.
Join the UA
Are you looking to begin a new career as an apprentice in the pipe trades? Are you an experienced tradesperson searching for a brighter future?
To receive more information on careers available through the UA, please submit your contact information.
Become a member of the United Association
Join the Best in the Business
To receive more information on careers available at the UA, please submit your contact information.
More Trades
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Pipeliners
Pipeliners are the skilled professionals responsible for constructing, maintaining and repairing the pipelines that deliver energy and resources across the United States and Canada.
Plumbers
Plumbers install, repair, and maintain the piping systems that deliver clean water, remove waste, and safeguard the public health.
Sprinkler Fitters
Individuals who work as sprinkler fitters specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of fire sprinkler systems that safeguard people, property, and essential infrastructure.
Steamfitters
Steamfitters fabricate, install, maintain, and repair high-pressure systems that move steam, hot water, and other industrial fluids.
Welders
Welders play a vital role in constructing, maintaining, and repairing critical systems by cutting and joining materials.