Mid-Atlantic Pipe Trades Association

06/05/2026

"We need to make sure that we do not do anything to kill the golden goose. I really don't care about a specific industry," Scott says. "I care about keeping our word to businesses that we attract, and that we want to retain in the Commonwealth of Virginia. That's what I care about."

The new fiscal year starts next month, but Virginia still has no budget. And leaders in the General Assembly are still divided over what to do about a tax break for data centers.

06/03/2026

Parker of the Virginia State Building Trades said the boom in what’s been deemed “Data Center Alley” in Northern Virginia has provided some of the best job opportunities for union laborers since the North American Free Trade Agreement in the mid-1990s spurred companies to relocate manufacturing outside the U.S. and away from American workers.

“This is good work, strong work, and it’s part of essential infrastructure,” Parker said. If lawmakers relent to public pressure, he said, “what can we build? What industry are we allowed to have?”

Labor unions are using their political power — and a jobs message — to influence state efforts to regulate data centers.

05/29/2026

05/28/2026

New episode of the Pipe Up! podcast 🎙️

UA International Representative Chris Madello joins the show to talk data centers, the misinformation surrounding them, and why these projects mean major long-term opportunity for UA members across North America.

Listen now wherever you get podcasts.