(PARK CITY, UTAH) - Lift Mechanics and electricians employed at Park City Mountain Resort in Park City, Utah have voted overwhelmingly in favor of joining the Communications Workers of America (CWA), becoming the first group of Ski Resort Mechanics in the United States to form a Union.

The Workers organized as the Park City Lift Maintenance Professional Union under the United Professional Ski Patrols of America (CWA Local 7781).

The Members of the Mechanics Team face dangerous work conditions, chronic understaffing, and low pay that does not reflect the hazards of their work or cost of living, CWA Representatives said.

These issues contribute to constant employee turnover, which makes it impossible to cultivate a crew of experienced Mechanics, and their work often goes unappreciated despite being essential to the resort’s functioning, Union Officials added.

The Workers believe self-advocacy as a Union Crew will combat these issues, and create a safe and equitable working environment for all, the CWA added.

CWA Local 7781 currently represents more than 650 Ski Patrollers in the Mountain West and Pacific Northwest, and recently added the Purgatory Resort Bike Patrol to their ranks.