What is the difference between union and merit-shop? Which route should I choose?

IEC is an association of merit-shop contractors - we are not union members. We believe that choosing between entering merit-shop or union electrical work should depend entirely on your preferences.

Merit-shop employers pay their employees what they deem appropriate based on the agreement with the apprentice upon being hired, and merit. Employment policies differ between each merit-shop employer, and you will likely see differences in working hours, policies, and pay when looking for a job. In a union setting, there are collective bargaining agreements that determine wage rates and work policies, based on seniority, for all workers within that union.

For more information on merit-shops, check out ABC's article.