Workers at Jensen Precast in Fontana, Calif. became the newest members of Teamsters Local 166 in Bloomington, Calif. after voting for union representation by a 2-1 margin last week.

The 112 yard workers, who make concrete drainage systems at Jensen Precast, were frustrated by the lack of respect they received from the company’s management team. The long-tenured workforce made the decision to seek out a partner on the job with Local 166.

“They were fed up with the way they were being treated on the job,” said Ruben Luna, Local 166 organizer. “Jensen went as far as hiring a company to wage an anti-union campaign to discourage the workers from joining the Teamsters. But this group was strong and fought for what they believed in. It was team effort that turned out for the best.”

Andy Budai, Ruben Luna’s organizing partner on the campaign, also applauded the group’s dedication.

“This was a successful effort despite the company’s anti-union campaign,” Budai said. “The workers saw through their union-busting tactics and voted to become Teamsters. We look forward to working with them to help address their issues in the workplace.”

Many of the workers in the bargaining unit have had long careers at Jensen Precast but felt it was time to take action to gain a true voice on the job.

“We look forward to getting our first contract with Teamsters Local 166,” said Francisco Chavez, a yard worker who was been with Jensen Precast for more than 20 years. “We wanted to thank Ruben and Andy for all their hard work getting us to this point.”

With the yard workers now on board with the Teamsters, Jensen Precast drivers have now expressed their interest in joining Local 166.

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