Steamfitters Local 342 was chartered into the United Association of Journeyman and Apprentices in the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada in 1914. It began with twenty-one charter members who sought a shorter work-day, wage increases, and better working conditions. Those original members endured adverse conditions that are well documented in the history of the American Labor Movement.
What started as a small band of steamfitters grew to encompass workers in the welding, pipeline, refrigeration, and plumbing trades. The acquisition of these skilled trades came by way of mergers with other UA locals, including Plumbers Local 444 in 1994, and helped to establish one of the strongest examples of a combination local. We are proud of our humble beginnings and strive to maintain the highest standard of excellence.