Union crane operators?

[hl_tree]

I was speaking with a friend a week or two ago and he told me that supposedly there are no non-union crane operators in this area. Because of that, crane rental rates are through the roof... I know of a few tree companies that will rent out their cranes, but I can find fault with each and every one. The union guys (I only know one) seem more professional, more knowledgeable, and better equipped for whatever task may be at hand. What is the general consensus here?

 

[allmark]

Union crane operators practice at union schools and train there. this is also the reason they pass the state test more than non union. The test near me is at the union facility but run by the state. Makes me wonder?

 

[thattreeguy]

its non union out here, and they're pretty good.i was a crane operator in the army and i went into a union hall in los angeles and they told me my experience didnt count and i could pay their dues and fees for school and start out as an oiler (helper) and be on a list ..oh yippee