Techs at UP Health System-Marquette, who are represented by Marquette Ancillary Staff and Technologists, part of the Michigan Nurses Association, ratified a new labor contract Sept. 11.
The agreement includes 18.75% wage increases over the next four years and three months, according to a union news release. It also includes a move to the same health insurance that nurses at the hospital receive.
“Through the solidarity of our union and the support of our community, we were able to achieve a strong contract that will hopefully bring more techs to work at the hospital and to stay working here, which will translate to better care for patients,” Josh Bowman, a medical laboratory scientist at the hospital, MAST president and an MNA board member, said in the release. “We appreciate the amazing community support over these months of bargaining. This contract moves UPHS-Marquette techs forward in a way that everyone can feel proud of.”
Nurses and techs have been negotiating with the hospital over two separate contracts since March. Nurses reached a tentative agreement in August and ratified their deal Sept. 5.
“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with MAST that supports our technologists and strengthens the care we provide to patients,” UP Health System-Marquette administration said in a statement shared with Becker’s. “The overwhelming support in MAST’s ratification vote underscores the value of collaboration and partnership. Every team member — whether union or non-union — plays a vital role in delivering high-quality care to our patients and communities.”
