About IUOE

The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) is a progressive, diversified labor union representing highly skilled professionals across critical industries that build, operate, and maintain North America’s infrastructure.

IUOE primarily represents: 

• Hoisting and Portable Operating Engineers, including heavy equipment operators, mechanics, and surveyors, serving the construction, pipeline, energy, petrochemical, industrial, and public sectors.
• Stationary Engineers oversee the operation, maintenance, inspection, and support of critical systems in commercial, industrial, healthcare, and service-sector environments—including specialized technical and healthcare professionals who ensure safety, compliance, and reliable operations.

This broad representation is central to IUOE’s mission. The union advocates for fair wages and strong labor standards, works collaboratively to help control healthcare costs, and supports contractors by promoting a highly trained, safety-focused, and productive workforce. IUOE is committed to advancing the shared interests of its members while strengthening the industries and communities they serve.

Founded in 1896, IUOE today represents more than 400,000 members through 105 local unions across the United States and Canada. IUOE is one of the largest unions affiliated with the AFL-CIO. Through the IUOE International Training & Education Center and more than 100 local training and apprenticeship programs, the union ensures its members are among the safest, most skilled, and most capable craft professionals in North America.