International Union of Operating Engineers
Local 99, 99-A, 99-C, 99-O, AFL-CIO

Brief History of Local 99

In 1902, six engineers applied to the International Union of Steam Engineers for the Steam Engineers Charter of Local 99. [This organization, forged to unify the stationary engineers of the day to achieve better working conditions, wages and benefits for the good of all engineers, evolved into the International Union of Operating Engineers.] We owe these men a great debt of gratitude for their fortitude and commitment to unionism. Local 99 has truly come a long, long way!

The standard of living for stationary engineers has never been higher. Consider the following statistics: although we are not sure what the wages of our six men were in 1902, we do know that,

• in 1922, wages were $0.65 per hour ($7.22 in 2004 dollars)
• in 1942, wages were $1.08 per hour ($12.41 in 2004 dollars)
• in 1962, wages were $3.40 per hour ($20.98 in 2004 dollars)
• in 1982, wages were $11.40 per hour ($22.05 in 2004 dollars)
• and in 2004, the average engineer (with at least a DC 3rd class license) in our jurisdiction earned $28.00 per hour.

Education for union members has also changed drastically since Local 99’s inception. In 1902, fathers passed their trade on to their sons and fathers were responsible for their sons’ education. In 1963, Local 99 officially registered its own Apprenticeship program with the District of Columbia to train apprentices to work in the ever-expanding field of the stationary engineer. In 1970, Local 99 initiated an Advanced Training program to help upgrade journeymen. With the introduction of training modules from the International Union in 1993, Local 99’s Advanced Training program took another giant step forward. We now offer a wide range of courses; this education makes the difference between union workers and non-union workers.

Organizing new members has been a priority since our local’s beginning and continues to be so today. We would not be enjoying these great wages, benefits, and educational opportunities were it not for our continued commitment to organizing. Organizing new members is absolutely essential. It ensures our future growth and prosperity.