Manchester, NH – Approximately 150 workers at Southern New Hampshire University Arena are set to join The International Alliance of theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) after Steelman Production Services (SPS) agreed to voluntarily recognize the group’s union. These newly organized workers at SNHU Arena will be covered under an addendum of the existing SPS-IATSE national agreement, granting them the same conditions and provisions other unionized Steelman workers receive. Rates and benefits for the workers will experience a substantial increase, ranging between 22 and 37 percent.
In 2022 amidst widespread labor shortages following the COVID-19 pandemic and the resumption of live events nationwide, Steelman formalized a national agreement with IATSE after a successful organizing campaign led by IATSE Locals 11 and 195. Now, Steelman’s decision to voluntarily recognize SNHU Arena workers’ union is part of a broader trend across the U.S. live events industry, where employers increasingly acknowledge the advantages of a unionized workforce with respect to maintaining staffing levels as well as skills/safety training.
“The company’s support of the workers right to bargain and negotiate an area standard raise with benefits was instrumental in securing the deal,” said IATSE Stagecraft Director Michael Barnes. “This addendum improves the lives of these workers tremendously by securing area standard wages and access to improved training, retirement, and health benefits.
SNHU Arena boasts an 11,000 capacity and is one of New Hampshire’s largest venues, hosting diverse array of events, including minor league hockey, pre-season NBA matches, and a multitude of live concerts and shows. SPS’s National Agreement covers workers at several iconic venues across the Northeast, including Fenway Park, Boston Commons, and now the Southern New Hampshire University Arena. Live Event Workers nationwide are coming together to win essential access to healthcare, training, robust safety measurers, mental health resources, and avenues for professional growth. If you are interested in joining the movement, head to iatse.net/join to contact a live events organizer.
