
Shipbuilders Rock the Boat!
We are the best shipbuilders in the world. We build nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers for the United States Navy in Newport News, Virginia. We represent 9,700 Steelworkers who are proud to celebrate Local 8888’s 40-year legacy of solidarity, struggle and success. We believe in fairness and fight for social justice.
Our motto is: Local 8888 Shipbuilders Rock the Boat!
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Rapid Response News
Rapid Response, our union’s nonpartisan grassroots activist program, provides an opportunity for every USW member to weigh in on legislation concerning labor and work-related issues. By joining together, we encourage government actions that will positively impact our families, contracts and communities. Learn more!
Union Plus Benefits
Did you know your USW membership entitles you to discounts on wireless, car rentals, movie tickets, car insurance and more? Visit the Union Plus website to view current discounts and programs.
Download the USW App
Get USW event info, news alerts and even your union card right on your smart phone with the United Steelworkers app! It’s free and available for both Apple and Android users.
USW Publications
Want to learn more about your union working for you? Check out new and archived USW publications, including USW@work, sector newsletters and more.

Do Your Census Form Today!
The 2020 Census is underway. So, check your mailbox now for information on how to participate in this important census count. When you fill out the census form, you help create jobs, provide housing, prepare for emergencies (like the coronavirus), and build schools, roads and health care facilities. Virginia receives $18 billion in federal funds based on census information. Complete your census form online, by phone or by mail. For more information visit www.2020census.gov #8888counts
USW National News
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Rapid Response Action Call – The Fight Isn’t Over: Restore Collective Bargaining Now
Click here to download this Action Call as a PDF. In May, we asked for your help to fight against the Administration’s executive order that would strip collective bargaining rights from hundreds of th... —
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Minnesota Health Care Workers at Chisholm Health Center Ratify New Three-Year Agreement
Nearly one month after a powerful rally to fight back against a slew of harmful concessions proposed by management, two dozen registered nurses and licensed practical nurses at Chisholm Health Center... —
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Rapid Response Feedback Report: A Budget for Billionaires, Not Working Families
Click here to download this Feedback Report as a printable PDF. Congress has now passed a budget bill that working families cannot afford. The legislation adds $3.3 trillion to the national debt while... —
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Rapid Response Action Call: Senate Budget Plan Favors the Wealthy, Hurts Working Families
Click here to download this Action Call as a printable PDF. Today, July 1, 2025, the U.S. Senate passed a devastating budget bill that places a heavy burden on working people and their communities. He... —
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Defending Our Defenders: Union Veterans Demand Action in D.C.
More than 40 Veterans of Steel activists traveled to Washington, D.C., on June 5th and 6th to lobby and rally on behalf of military veterans and to pressure Congress to protect those who protected the... —