(COLUMBUS, OHIO) - Nearly 1,000 Patient Care Associates (PCAs) and Psychiatric Care Technicians (PCTs) employed at the Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).

The Health Care Workers chose IAM representation in a mail ballot election conducted in December, which concluded with the counting of ballots on January 3rd.

The organizing effort was a collaboration between the IAM and the Ohio State University Nurses Organization (OSUNO), a Local of the Ohio Nurses Association and an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), which represents 4,000 Registered Nurses (RNs) at the Wexner Medical Center.

This historic triumph underscores IAM International President Brian Bryant’s unwavering commitment to expanding the Union’s influence in the Health Care Sector.

It also continues the successful IAM-AFT Health Care Organizing Partnership, displaying the collaborative strength between the Unions.

IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan said: “This monumental victory not only solidifies our position in the Health Care Sector, but also sets the stage for future successes in Ohio and other States in the Eastern Territory.  As we continue to build on the IAM-AFT Health Care Organizing Partnership, we anticipate more positive outcomes for our Members.”

The PCAs are fighting for a change that will not only enhance their lives and their colleagues’ lives, but also increase patient care, the IAM said.

They are also fighting for workplace safety measures, increased staffing levels, and fair wages and benefits, which they greatly deserve as Health Care Professionals, the Union said.

The PCAs seized upon the power of coming together collectively in the past year, as Wexner Hospital has seen multiple Health Care Groups Unionize.

The IAM is among the largest Industrial Trade Unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 Active and Retired Members in Manufacturing, Aerospace, Defense, Airlines, Transportation, Shipbuilding, Woodworking, Health Care and other industries.

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Nearly 1,000 Health Care Workers at Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center Vote to Join IAM Union - IAMAW (goiam.org)