Comments from Participating Employers

“Thus far this program has provided a more efficient way of delivering benefits to employees with legitimate claims and has offered a more direct and fairer approach toward resolving questionable claims.”
Pete Taubenberger, President, Amerect Inc.

“This program avoids the mistrust and lack of communication that occurs when attorneys get involved in the claim. Getting to the problem NOW is the only solution that prevents a problem claim from ending up in litigation.” Scott Weicht, Executive Vice President, Adolfson & Peterson Construction

“Occasionally, regrettably too infrequently, organized labor and business combine their efforts and come up with something truly remarkable. This Program is such a case. It was a no-brainer going in and has provided us with enormous savings. The insurance services that we buy and pay dearly for are now being delivered with skill and clarity, at a reduction in cost. Better yet, we haven’t seen any deadbeats around these parts the last few years.”
Tony Phillippi, President, Phillippi Truck Crane Service Co.

“This program focuses on common sense solutions to whatever problems occur. Workers’ Compensation insurance is paid by employers as a benefit for their employees, and this Program allows labor and management to discuss their mutual concerns regarding an expensive and complicated benefit system.”
Rich Wynne, Chapter Manager, NECA-St. Paul Chapter

“The AGC of Minnesota and the Building Trades worked as a team to take a leadership role in the development of this program. While there is no substitute for the benefits of an injury free project, this innovative program is proving that labor and management can tackle difficult workers’ compensation cases without costly litigation.”
Dave Semerad, Executive Director, Associated General Contractors of Minnesota

"I believe the facilitation process outlined the position of both the employer and the employee. The role of the facilitator was very clear and his ability to work with both parties in discussion and driving toward resolution was very evident. This process is in the best interest of both parties. It is a much more streamlined and efficient way to resolve workers' compensation disputes. I am happy with the process and find it to be very beneficial."
Ryan R. Nelson, Safety Director, Northland Companies

Comments from Insurance Companies and Agents

“The Program’s alternative dispute resolution system really makes sense. Both the employee and the employer mutually benefit from the program. All the program staff do an excellent job. I recommend it to the majority of my construction clients.”
Mark Kampf, Producer, Kraus-Anderson Insurance

“While there is a cost to the employer to participate in the Program, I believe that the Program’s ability to prevent litigation or reduce the cost of litigation far outweighs the costs that my client incurs for participating in the Program.”
Scott Egginton, Owner, Cobb Strecker Dunphy and Zimmermann

“As a former claim adjuster and now as an underwriter, I have examined the Program in detail. It clearly offers union contractors a competitive advantage in controlling and reducing claim costs. By enrolling with the Program, my accounts have realized these reductions in the cost of their insurance programs.”
Will Ribbens, Construction Underwriter, Zurich-American Insurance Group

“Our company has been a supporter of the Program since its inception. We, as a carrier, share the Program’s goal: pay the proper benefits on time and without a hassle or litigation.”
Patti Paulson, Underwriting Manager, State Fund Mutual Insurance Co.

Comments from Labor Leaders and Union Members

“It is in our memberships best interest to participate in the Union Construction Workers’ Compensation Program. No one wins when claims and treatment are delayed. A speedy resolution to every case benefits everyone.”
Richard Vitelli, Business Manager, I.B.E.W. Local Union #110

“Expediting the process of getting a compensation check into the hands of the injured worker is a priority with the Union Construction Workers’ Compensation Program.”
Scott Malcolm, Executive Secretary/Treasurer, Lakes & Plains Regional Council of Carpenters & Joiners

“Every time one of our members can get the proper benefits paid without having to hire an attorney and go to court, they win – no legal fees to pay and no delay in payment of benefits.”
Jim Brady, Business Manager, Laborers’ District Council of MN and ND

“This program is really a win-win for employers and union members. If a claim absolutely has to be litigated, this system gets the job done in a few months rather than a few years.”
Fred Dereschuk, Business Manager/Financial Secretary, International Union of Operating Engineers, Local Union #49

"Since my injury, the facilitator has gone that extra distance to assure that I receive all of the help I need and deserve." Ironworker

"The facilitator was absolutely helpful in solving my problem and then getting me the proper benefits." Carpenter

"I was completely satisfied with the facilitator and the facilitation process." Laborer

"The mediator did a very good job in a professional way." Ironworker

"The neutral physician who examined me treated me with respect and listened carefully to the information I gave him." Carpenter


If you have comments about the Union Construction Workers' Compensation Program, we want to hear from you! Please leave a message for us using the "Contact" tab. Thanks.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- © Copyright 2004 Union Construction Workers' Compensation Program All Rights Reserved Website by Next Step Consulting Services Click Here to report issues with this website