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Do you ever think about how all of the equipment, supplies and materials actually get to construction projects?
JOINING THE TEAMSTERS 50
“The first thing,” he explains, “to be in the construction industry through the Teamsters Union, it is highly recommended that you have a Class A CDL with multiple endorsements.”
The CDL, or Commercial Driver’s License, is a special driver’s license required to operate certain commercial vehicles, including combinations or single vehicles rated at 26,001 pounds or more.
Endorsements authorize certain vehicles or cargo. Nichols recommends operating without an air-brake restriction, plus hazardous materials and tanker endorsements.
HOW TO APPLY
How to Become a Member of the Teamsters 50
Getting a CDL requires entry-level driver training from a registered provider, such as the truck driver programs offered at community colleges or through private truck driving schools. Additional classes in both types of educational institutions can lead to additional endorsements. Following completion of the coursework, drivers can test for their CDL with the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services department.
With a new license in hand, drivers can contact the Teamsters by visiting one of the union halls for construction sign-up between 8 a.m. and noon Monday through Friday, calling Local 50 at (618) 233-0313, or visiting the official website www.teamsters50.com.
To pursue construction driving work, drivers should have a valid CDL without an air-brake restriction and must hold a current DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate, which is issued after an examination by a certified medical examiner.
AGE & EDUCATION
RECOMMENDED
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
“It’s difficult at time because people come out with zero experience,” Nichols said. “We try to find one of our local companies that are willing to put them on and train them in the construction world.” He adds that new drivers can help themselves by talking to area companies and farmers about driving jobs, just to gain experience. “That is their pathway into the construction world as a Teamster.”
He added that some new drivers are able to get jobs with construction companies as apprentice Teamsters (because of the lack of experience). These jobs come with lower skill set expectations from the employer and are paid less than non-apprentice drivers. These arrangements can last up to three years.