The Establishment of a Construction Union-Based Member Assistance Program: An Interview With Kyle Zimmer

Abstract

Kyle Zimmer is the health and safety director and Members Assistance Program director of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 478, which represents operating engineers in Connecticut. Mr. Zimmer successfully gained support from union leadership and employers in initiating a union-based member assistance program to address mental health, suicide, and substance use among his members and their families. The member assistance program is helping to change the culture of the workplace by decreasing stigma and making it easier for workers to seek out treatment for substance use disorders and mental health issues. The program has been effective in getting workers quick access to treatment while also establishing a peer network for continued sobriety and recovery support. In this interview, Mr. Zimmer explains the operational challenges of creating such a program and how he was able to overcome the challenges to create a successful member assistance program.