LOCAL
AV techs ratify contract with Encore Global
New collective bargaining agreement will “significantly improve the lives and working conditions” of technicians
SEATTLE, WA (July 17, 2026) — The behind-the-scenes teams of AV techs that deliver seamless events in hotels and convention spaces across the Puget Sound have secured a new collective bargaining agreement with employer Encore Global after working for more than a year under an expired contract. The workers’ union, IATSE Local 15, announced news of ratification on July 7.
“The day has finally come for Encore in-house technicians here in the Seattle area,” per a post on the union’s facebook. “At last night’s monthly membership meeting, the body voted to ratify the agreement reached between Encore Global and IATSE Local 15. There are many important changes that will improve the lives of the in-house technicians who make Encore’s events happen.”
AV techs organized with IATSE Local 15 cheer during an informational picket in April.
The gains in the contract are the product of more than a year of negotiations and a series of direct actions, including an informational picket in April supported by labor allies from the region.
“Every one of your labor siblings has your back as you fight for the wages and respect you are owed,” said Washington State Labor Council President April Sims during the info picket. “Labor unions throughout the Puget Sound hold our events and conventions at facilities that contract with Encore because we want our dollars to pay fair wages and benefits to union members. Your union contract is why Encore gets our business.”
The new collective bargaining agreement locks in significant pay increases, the highest “in house” rates for Encore in the country. For some of the lowest paid employees, that means an 18% increase from minimum rates in the previous contract. Workers also won better scheduling practices, improved union rights, and clear language on breaks. Combined, these improvements will “significantly improve the lives and working conditions” of techs, per IATSE Local 15 Assistant Business Agent Carrie Steficek.
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